This position is identified; therefore, it is available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only.
About the organisation Government agencies touch and impact the lives of the people of NSW every day, and we are there to make sure those interactions are fair. Government is complex and people need to have confidence that someone is holding government agencies to account if their actions are unreasonable, wrong or unlawful. We are that someone. We are the organisation that shines a light on serious wrong conduct in the delivery of government services. Our ultimate goal is that everyone receives the right services and fair treatment from the agencies we oversight.
Our scope is broad. We cover services for vulnerable families, including the delivery of community services funded by government; local councils; correctional and youth justice centres; education; environment protection and public transport – to name a few!
We work to help resolve problems at an individual level, as well as looking at the bigger picture to promote system improvements in public administration and in the delivery of community services. We are confident in the knowledge that our work will give voice to the individual and bring fairness and balance to how the government delivers to the public it serves.
We are committed to providing a range of career development opportunities. We aim to guide and help our people with the skills they need to lead our organisation and give the most impact to what they do.
About the role We are seeking a strategic and culturally capable Principal Project Officer (Identified) to join our Aboriginal Programs Branch. This leadership role is responsible for designing and implementing impact measurement frameworks and supporting the development of high-impact projects that align with the Ombudsman’s mission. You will drive outcomes-focused approaches across the branch’s work, contribute to systemic reviews and audits, and strengthen culturally safe practices across the organisation.
The role is collaborative, fast-paced, and deeply aligned with community outcomes. If you are ready to contribute to systemic change through culturally grounded project leadership—this is your opportunity.
For a full list of responsibilities for the above roles, please contact Pipeline Talent via [email protected].
About you You are a dedicated leader and advocate for social justice, with extensive experience engaging with Aboriginal communities and organisations. You bring a track record in program design, evaluation, and strategic communication. Your approach is thoughtful, data-driven, and grounded in cultural integrity. Whether leading a team, presenting recommendations, or managing complex information, you act with care, courage, and purpose. You thrive in environments where critical thinking, collaboration, and resilience are essential. You are passionate about embedding cultural safety into systems-level practice and believe in the power of impact measurement to drive meaningful reform.
Key Selection Criteria
Extensive experience in Aboriginal community engagement and demonstrated ability to embed cultural safety principles in systemic policy and practice.
Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, with a history of collaborating across Aboriginal organisations, government agencies, and community groups.
Expertise in project planning, impact measurement, data collection and evaluation methodologies (such as program logic, theories of change, or equivalent frameworks).
High-level written and verbal communication skills, including experience writing strategic reports and shaping public-facing communications.
Demonstrated ability to manage teams and mentor others, with experience in leading performance, wellbeing, and high-quality delivery.
Experience in managing complex and sensitive projects, providing strategic advice, and navigating competing priorities in government or integrity settings.
What we can offer you
A purpose-driven role where you can help shape cultural safety and systemic reform across NSW
The opportunity to lead high-impact projects with national relevance and lasting value
A supportive workplace with strong team culture and a commitment to staff wellbeing
Access to professional development and leadership opportunities within an independent statutory agency
Flexible work arrangements and centrally located offices in the Sydney CBD
Salary at Clerk Grade 11/12, plus superannuation, and the chance to influence whole-of-sector change
How to apply All applications must be made in writing and include the following:
Up to date CV
Cover letter (maximum 3 pages) addressing the Six (6) selection criteria above, outlining why you have applied for the position and how you meet the requirements of the position.
Notes:
The assessment process will be conducted by a standard panel assessment process.
A recruitment pool may be created through this recruitment process. A recruitment pool is a pool of applicants who have been assessed and identified as suitable for this role or similar roles, and who may be considered for a range of similar roles, including temporary, term or ongoing roles over the next 18 months.
Shortlisted candidates will be subject to security and other vetting processes.
All temporary roles may have the opportunity for ongoing employment.
Applications are to be submitted below and close 11:59PM Monday 28 July 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
How to get more information For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.
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