Here at DETSI, you'll be inspired to make Queensland better. We enable long-term, sustainable decisions for the environment & the economy & are committed to working in genuine partnership with First Nation people.
We are looking for a Principal Policy Officer to join the Policy and Legislation Branch to contribute to the development of policies, strategies and legislation for environmental management and the conservation of nature.
The Policy and Legislation Branch oversees the following:
• Environmental Protection Act 1994
• Environmental Offsets Act 2014
• Nature Conservation Act 1992
• Queensland Heritage Act 1992
• Queensland State of the Environment Report
• Conserving Nature – A Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for Queensland
• South-East Queensland Koala Strategy

Job details

Principal Policy Officers specialise in turning policy into strategies and legislation and developing communication and stakeholder engagement products specifically related to these key deliverables. Principal Policy Officers are involved in all aspects of policy and legislation project work, including:

• problem identification and analysis
• options analysis (specifically whether legislative amendments are required to solve the problem)
• solution design and recommendation (specifically how potential solutions could fit into the existing legislative framework)
• stakeholder consultation
• high-level briefing
• environment and conservation strategy development and reporting
• legislative amendment projects including all elements of Cabinet and Parliamentary processes
• implementation planning and overview.

As a Principal Policy Officer, you will manage the day-to-day planning, operation and problem solving for policy, strategy and legislation projects to ensure that timeframes and objectives are met. This includes the development of a range of products including project plans, discussion papers, strategies, cabinet submissions, draft legislation, executive and ministerial briefs and other communication materials.

The position is also responsible for the coordination and provision of strategic policy analysis and advice to other areas of the department, government, and external stakeholders.

While the position sits within the Conservation Policy and Legislation Unit, Principal Policy Officers are agile and may be required to work on projects within other PL units and teams.

How to apply: 
We are open to assessing your suitability in a way that works for you. For more information on options for adjustments, visit 
https://www.desi.qld.gov.au/our-department/employment/why-work-with-us.
To apply for this role, please provide us information about:
• your skills, experience, qualifications and personal qualities and how they align with the requirements in for the role
• why you are the best-suited person for this role.

You can provide these in:
• A succinct resume (4 pages maximum), highlighting key achievements and experience relevant to the role; and
• A short statement (2 x A4 pages maximum), including brief examples or evidence of your skills, experiences, and personal qualities relevant to the role

Applications to remain current for 12 months.             

Job Ad Reference: QLD/703562/26

Closing Date: Thursday, 22 October 2026

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.
1x Permanent position1x Temporary position up to 12 months with possible extension. Flexible full-time. Also open to Part-Time considerations.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 703562 26 Role Description (Word, 613KB)