Premier's Department
Senior Associate, Bargaining and Legal Strategy
You. At the centre of big ideas.
* Work on complex, high-impact industrial relations and bargaining matters across NSW Government
* Build your industrial relations expertise in a supportive, high-performing team with long-term career growth opportunities
* Ongoing, Clerk Grade 9/10 ($129,464 - $142,665 per annum) opportunity, based in Martin Place, Sydney
About the Role
You will join our Bargaining and Legal Strategy team within the Industrial Relations branch in the People and Workforce group.
As the Senior Associate, Bargaining and Legal Strategy will provide high-quality advice on complex industrial relations and bargaining matters, including interpreting and applying legislation, industrial agreements and government policy. You will identify and assess risks and issues, contribute to the development of industrial strategies, and support informed decision-making across a range of matters. You will work closely with stakeholders to deliver clear, practical advice, support bargaining processes and contribute to policy and reform initiatives in a dynamic and evolving environment.
This is a great opportunity for someone with a background in industrial relations, HR or policy who is keen to deepen their expertise, work on complex and meaningful issues, and build a long-term career in industrial relations within the public sector.
To learn more about the role please review the Role Description.
We're Looking For
* Industrial Relations Capability: You bring experience in industrial relations, HR or policy, with the ability to interpret and apply legislation, agreements or government frameworks in a practical way.
* Stakeholder Engagement: You build strong relationships and confidently engage with a range of stakeholders, including navigating complex or sensitive discussions such as union engagement.
* Analytical Thinking and Judgement: You can assess issues, identify risks and provide clear, well-reasoned advice to support decision-making in complex environments.
* Communication Skills: You communicate clearly and professionally, translating complex information into practical, easy-to-understand advice for diverse audiences.
* Motivation and Growth Mindset: You are proactive, positive and eager to deepen your expertise in industrial relations, with a genuine interest in building a long-term career in this space.
We value diverse experiences. Even if you're not sure you meet all requirements, we encourage you to apply.
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 knowledge, skills and experience (maximum 5 pages)
* A cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role (maximum 2 pages)
Closing date: Thursday, 21 May 2026 (9:59 AM)
Salary: Clerk Grade 9/10. Package includes base salary ($129,464 - $142,665 per annum) plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading.
Hiring Manager: Dean Astley, Associate Director, Bargaining and Legal Strategy, on
About the Premier's Department
Connecting to Deliver from the Heart of Government
The Premier's Department leads the state's 430,000 public servants, driving collaboration and the delivery of whole-of-government priorities. Learn more about the department and a career at Premier's Department.
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 Premier's Department 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.
Additional Information
Reasonable Adjustments: The selection process will include assessment techniques to determine your suitability. You can request reasonable adjustments at any stage by indicating in pre-screening questions, contacting the Talent Team at, or reaching out to the hiring manager.
Talent Pool: A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process. If eligible, you may be contacted for ongoing and temporary opportunities in the same role or grade that become available over an 18-month period.