Veterinary Compliance Officer

• Ongoing Full Time, 35 hours per week 
• Primary Work Location: Newington
• Professional Officer G 1-4 - $75,728 to $145,442 commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience outlined in the Crown Employees (Department of Regional NSW) Professional Officers Award and the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (1-4) 

About the Role

As a Veterinary Compliance Officer, you will play a key role in promoting and safeguarding animal welfare across NSW. Working within the Compliance Investigations Unit, you will help maximise compliance with animal welfare legislation administered by NSW DPIRD, including the Animal Research Act and Exhibited Animals Protection Act.

This varied role combines compliance monitoring, investigations, enforcement, education and advisory activities. You will develop and deliver risk-based compliance programs, investigate potential breaches of legislation, provide specialist veterinary advice, and support evidence-based regulatory decision-making. Working closely with industry stakeholders, statutory committees and internal teams, you will balance effective stakeholder engagement with the objective application of regulatory powers to achieve positive animal welfare outcomes.

This is an excellent opportunity for a veterinarian who is passionate about animal welfare, enjoys solving complex issues, and is motivated by delivering fair and effective regulatory outcomes.

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Experience in compliance, investigations, regulation or animal welfare-related environments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make objective, evidence-based decisions
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to provide clear advice to diverse stakeholders
• Proven ability to manage complex and sensitive issues while building productive stakeholder relationships
• Sound judgement, integrity and resilience when delivering compliance and enforcement outcomes

Essential criteria:

• Degree in Veterinary Science
• Registration as a veterinary practitioner under the Veterinary Practice Act 2003
• Current NSW Driver License and the ability and willingness to travel within NSW

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager Sam Hill, A/ Team Leader Compliance Investigations on 0448 891 939 or email sam.hill@dpird.nsw.gov.au.  

You can also click here to view the role description.

Applications close: 22 July 2026 at 11:55pm AEST

Applying is easy!

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

✅ A CV (approx. 4 pages)

✅ A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

After applying:

• You’ll receive a confirmation email
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates  
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months. 

Why Join Us?

At DPIRD, we’re committed to protecting and growing NSW’s primary industries while supporting regional communities. When you join us, you’ll:

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

About Us

Together, we are DPIRD

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.

 The department brings together:

• Local Land Services
• NSW Resources
• Agriculture and Biosecurity
• Fisheries and Forestry
• Regional Development and Delivery.

With the majority of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve.

Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.

Additional Information

The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required.

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months.

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.  

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au  or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.  

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.