About this role
Premier’s Department
Protocol Officer
You. At the centre of big ideas.
- Play a key role in planning and delivering the official program of engagements and events for the Governor of New South Wales
- Use your expertise in protocol, event logistics, and stakeholder engagement to support meaningful events and high-level engagements at Government House and throughout New South Wales
- Ongoing, Clerk Grade 7/8 ($113,574 - $125,720 per annum) opportunity, based in Sydney CBD.
About the Role
As a Protocol Officer at Government House Sydney, you will play a pivotal role in planning and delivering official engagements and events for the Governor of New South Wales, their spouse, and the Official Secretary. From facilitating courtesy calls with visiting dignitaries and organising ceremonial events, to coordinating complex regional visits across New South Wales and attending the Governor at community engagements, this is a unique opportunity to support the work of the State’s most senior office.
Your work will involve identifying and researching engagement opportunities, developing visit programs, preparing briefing materials, managing guest lists, liaising with stakeholders, and occasionally serving as Master of Ceremonies. Success in this role requires agility, attention to detail, and the ability to remain composed under pressure – ensuring each engagement runs smoothly and reflects the dignity of the office.
This fulfilling and varied position offers purpose and the opportunity to be part of meaningful engagements. Please note that occasional regional travel, evening and weekend work will be required.
To learn more about the role please review the Role Description.
Government House Sydney
Government House Sydney, the residence and the seat of administration of the Governor of New South Wales – the oldest statutory office in Australia - is staffed by employees of the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet. The team at Government House Sydney supports the Governor in the conduct of constitutional, ceremonial and community duties.
Collectively, the five functional areas (Protocol, Household, Estate Management, Communications and Secretariat) ensure that every aspect of the Governor’s and spouse’s programs of official engagements and engagement with the community are appropriately coordinated, managed and planned; that the official residence is suitably maintained; that the administrative arm of the organisation operates in accordance with relevant policies and guidelines; and that the heritage buildings, contents and grounds are managed and presented to the highest standard.
Our people undertake challenging and rewarding work to support the Governor and to ensure a positive experience for visitors and guests. We are guided by our core values of integrity, trust, service and accountability. We also provide our people with opportunities to learn, develop and adapt within an inclusive and supportive environment.
We're Looking For
A highly organised, detail-oriented professional with:
- A sound understanding of contemporary Australian protocols and their application
- Proven experience planning and delivering complex events to a high standard
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear, professional correspondence and briefing materials
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build and maintain productive relationships at all levels
- Initiative and sound judgement, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
- A proactive, self-motivated mindset, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a high-performing team
- Discretion, professionalism and tact in handling sensitive and confidential matters
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 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: Monday, 2 February 2026 (11:59 PM)
Salary: Clerk Grade 7/8. Package includes base salary ($113,574 - $125,720) plus superannuation (12%) and leave loading.
Hiring Manager: Kate Hawkins, Manager Protocol via [email protected]
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, a career at Premier’s Department and Government House Sydney.
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 [email protected], 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.
Other facts
About myCareer - NSW Government
We are a team of more than 12,000 people, working together to provide services that improve the lives of our 8+ million customers across NSW. We are focused on delivering customer service, modern and strong regulation, along with meaningful digital reform for communities. DCS is a portfolio of more than 30 agencies, entities and business units, which makes our work incredibly diverse.
We are guided by our core values of integrity, trust, service and accountability. We offer flexible working, competitive pay and conditions, and support employee health and wellbeing.
Come join us and help influence the future of our great state.
Our community guidelines:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/customer-service/access-to-information/dcs-social-media-community-guidelines
What you'll do
- The Protocol Officer will plan and deliver official engagements and events for the Governor of New South Wales, including coordinating visits and managing guest lists. The role involves liaising with stakeholders and preparing briefing materials to ensure smooth operations.
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