Associate, Policy - Talent Pool

The Cabinet Office

Associate, Policy - Talent Pool

You. At the centre of big ideas.

• Seeking legal policy and social policy professionals to shape policy at the heart of NSW Government
• Work on complex, high-impact issues that support Cabinet and the Premier
• Contribute your policy, research, and project management expertise
• Clerk Grade 7/8, Talent Pool opportunities ($113,574 - $125,720 per annum) available in Martin Place, Sydney CBD, with flexible work options
• Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

About the Role

The Cabinet Office (TCO) plays a central role in supporting Cabinet decision‑making and driving whole‑of‑government policy reform. TCO comprises three policy groups, Social Policy and Intergovernmental Relations (SPIR). Energy, Environment and Evidence (EEE) and Economic, Housing and Infrastructure Policy (EHIP).

This recruitment round is focused on the Social Policy and Intergovernmental Relations (SPIR) group and is seeking candidates with experience in social policy and/or legal policy (legal qualifications are preferred).

As an Associate, Policy, you will undertake complex policy and project work to inform Cabinet and government decision-making. This is a policy role at the centre of government, offering exposure to Cabinet-level issues and the opportunity to contribute to decisions with statewide impact. You will prepare high-level advice, critically analyse policy proposals, engage with stakeholders across government, and contribute to significant policy reforms and service delivery initiatives across NSW Government.

Successful applicants may be placed directly into roles or included in a talent pool for future opportunities across the three policy groups. If talent pooled, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.

To learn more about the role please review the Role Description. The role requires several focus capabilities. For more information, please see the NSW Public Sector Capability Framework.

We're Looking For

Individuals who have experience in legislative and justice matters (legal qualifications preferred), and/or other social policy areas. This includes:

• justice
• criminal and civil law
• national security and resilience, including emergency management
• counter-terrorism
• health, education, community services and disability
• Aboriginal affairs
• intergovernmental relations.

You will bring strong experience across the policy lifecycle, including research, development, consultation, implementation and evaluation, and be comfortable working in fast-paced, high-profile environments.

Key required capabilities, qualifications and experience include:

• Policy Development & Delivery: Demonstrated experience contributing to complex policy development, reform initiatives or service delivery projects within government or a similarly complex environment.
• Qualifications & Expertise: Relevant tertiary qualifications or equivalent professional experience. For applicants interested in legal policy roles, legal qualifications and/or strong legal policy experience will be highly regarded.
• Analysis & Advice: Proven ability to undertake critical analysis and deliver high‑quality, evidence‑based written and verbal advice on complex, sensitive or cross‑portfolio issues.
• Project Management: Demonstrated capability in planning, coordinating and delivering policy or project work within tight timeframes, balancing competing priorities in fast‑paced environments.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Experience working collaboratively with a range of stakeholders, including across government agencies, central agencies, and external organisations, to inform policy development and achieve outcomes.
• Communication & Collaboration: Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex issues and work constructively across teams, agencies and jurisdictions.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Experience working in a highly ethical and professional environment, with a sound understanding (or ability to quickly develop an understanding) of relevant legislative, policy and governance frameworks.

We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.

The Selection Process

The selection process may include a written task, a presentation and a formal panel interview.

You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by contacting ***email_hidden***. If you are unsure whether an adjustment would be helpful, you are encouraged to get in touch for a confidential discussion.

We are committed to providing information in accessible formats. If you need information in an alternative format (for example, large print, accessible Word, or Easy English), please contact ***email_hidden***.

Why Join Us?

• Flexible Working: Broad range of flexible working arrangements
• Career Development: Ongoing learning through expert-led sessions, online training, and professional development opportunities
• Work-Life Balance: Flex time accrual for extra hours worked (for non-executive roles) based on a 35-hour standard week
• Wellbeing Support: Access to employee assistance program, fitness passport program, and wellbeing initiatives
• Inclusive Culture: Staff-led networks including Aboriginal Staff Advisory Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Network, and Young Professionals Network

How to Apply

Click 'Apply Online' and submit your application including:

• A resume detailing relevant policy knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 3 pages)
• A cover letter demonstrating how you meet the requirements and focus capabilities of the role. The cover letter should indicate whether you are interested in social policy or legal policy roles (maximum 1 page).

Closing date: Monday, 29 June 2026 (9:59 AM)

Salary: Classification Clerk Grade 7/8. Package includes base salary ($113,574 - $125,720) plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading.

Hiring Manager: Morgan Johansen, Associate Director - [email protected]

About The Cabinet Office

Leading policy, strategy and integrity from the heart of government

The Cabinet Office (TCO) enables robust Cabinet decision-making by ensuring policies and proposals submitted for consideration are of the highest quality and in line with government priorities. Learn more about the department and a career at The Cabinet Office.

Our Commitment

We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans and other diverse communities.

The Cabinet Office acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work and live. We pay respect to Ancestors and Elders past and present. We recognise and learn from the strengths of First Nations peoples of New South Wales and their continuing connection to, and unique cultural and spiritual relationship with, Country.