The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment. 

To learn more about our department, our team and the work we do, please visit our website. 

About the opportunity

We currently have one (1) permanent opportunity available for a Principal HR Consultant to join DPIRD’s People and Culture team.

We are looking for a driven, capable and highly organised HR specialist who loves building strong relationships and making things happen.

You’ll be a confident communicator, a natural problem-solver and someone who thrives on taking initiative. If you’re proactive, motivated and enjoy turning ideas into action, we’d love to hear from you.

Reporting to the Director People and Culture, you will play a key role in coordinating and supporting strategic People and Culture projects, helping to drive priorities and deliver meaningful outcomes across the Directorate.

You will also support the Director in addressing key issues, driving performance improvement and strengthening organisational capability and contribution. This is a proactive role that requires strong coordination, sound judgement and the ability to build effective relationships across the organisation.

It is also important to be aware that DPIRD is an emergency management department and so on occasion, all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies. 

The position is currently available for immediate filling, with the potential that this process may also be used to fill other same or similar fixed term or permanent vacancies that arise in DPIRD (within the locations listed in this advert) over the next 12 months. 

Diversity and inclusion

We value diversity and understand diverse workplaces are more effective and innovative so we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women, youth, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. As our department is an equal opportunity employer, supported by the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA), preference may be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people of diverse sexualities and youth.

About the team and benefits

We are genuinely committed to developing and supporting our workforce to be their best by creating a positive work environment, supporting work/life balance and encouraging our employees to learn on the job and build their skills.

Some of the benefits of this job and working at DPIRD include:

• Opportunity to be a valued team member undertaking a range of interesting and important projects.
• Access to a range of flexible working arrangements, including a range of generous leave entitlements.
• Being part of a fun, supportive and inclusive team.
• Modern, easily accessible and centrally located office premises and facilities, with proximity to a range of public transport options.

Assessment criteria and eligibility

We are looking for individuals with:    

• Demonstrated extensive knowledge and experience in a broad range of corporate support functions within a multi-disciplinary organisation, including:

• Policy, planning and strategic management; and
• Developing and implementing corporate strategies.

• Extensive knowledge of contemporary human resource practices, including providing strategic advice on complex workforce matters.
• Proven ability to build and maintain productive relationships and partnerships at all levels.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to assess complex issues, evaluate risks and provide sound recommendations.
• Highly effective communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse audiences.

To be eligible for appointment we will also require you to submit copies of your right to work in Australia (citizenship, residency, relevant visa) as part of your application to demonstrate you meet the position requirements.  

For further information and requirements for this position, please see the attached Job Description Form (JDF). 

How to apply

If you are interested in this opportunity, make sure you have read through all the attached information, click the ‘Apply’ button and upload the following:  

• A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of your referees.  

• A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages demonstrating how your skills, knowledge, experience and attributes relate to this opportunity and the values of DPIRD.
• Copies of any relevant documents to demonstrate you are eligible for appointment.

The successful candidate will also be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment, which will be at your expense. 

Please be aware that late applications will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure it has been submitted prior to the closing date and time. If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056.

Further information and support

To find out more about the opportunity, please contact Ruby Williamson, Director People and Culture via email to Ruby.Williamson@dpird.wa.gov.au or phone 0457 139 444

We are planning to conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates. If required, we may also use other assessment methods to gather evidence in relation to the suitability requirements of the position and supplement the field of applications by conducting a candidate search.

If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this assessment process, or other questions about the recruitment process, please contact our Talent team via recruitment@dpird.wa.gov.au or (08) 6552 1943.

Privacy and your personal information 

DPIRD handles and releases information in accordance with relevant privacy and information access laws including the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (FOI) and the Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing Act 2024  (WA) (PRIS). Further information is available via our Privacy Statement.