Drive meaningful change in Victoria's water management as the inaugural Director of First Nations Water, building partnerships with First Nations to support their self-determined water priorities and lead initiatives for a fairer water future.

About the role

This role provides a unique opportunity to partner with First Nations in leading change to better include Aboriginal people in the way water is managed in Victoria. As Director First Nations Water you will lead a newly formed branch to build and strengthen effective relationships with First Nations, support self-determined water priorities and progress important reforms. 

The Director is the key water sector relationship manager for First Nations, providing a support function and acting as a key point of contact within the Water and Catchments Group for First Nations to progress their self-determined water priorities. The Director also leads initiatives such as implementing key water reforms, facilitating input of the water sector into whole of government activities and priorities, the Aboriginal Water Program, and complex regulatory and technical analysis to enable restorative water justice and equip the water portfolio for Treaty readiness. 

About you:

We are looking for a strong leader for this recently established branch. We are seeking someone who is passionate about forming strong partnerships with First Nations and can drive collaboration across the water sector to improve outcomes for First Nations in water management.

To be successful in the role, you will have;

• An appropriate tertiary qualification in natural resource management or other relevant discipline is desirable, or equivalent experience.  
• Executive-level experience in public sector policy and regulatory roles, particularly in Aboriginal policy, programs and delivery is highly desirable.

This is designated position under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

About the branch

The recently formed First Nations Water Branch within the Water Sector Strategy and Partnerships Division works to ensure a more inclusive and culturally appropriate approach to water management and governance in the water sector. This Branch partners, with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Victorians on water and catchment management, supporting Traditional Owners to progress their self-determined water priorities. It is responsible for driving, consistent with the principle of self-determination, key water reforms and facilitating input of the water sector into whole of government reforms including Treaty readiness activities.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of up to 5 years. The work location for this position is Melbourne CBD with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

For further information, please refer to the attached position description or call Deb Brown, Executive Director on email deb.brown@deeca.vic.gov.au.

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday, 4 June 2025.

Other relevant information:

If you are current Victorian Public Service (VPS) employee, employed on an ongoing, fixed term or casual basis you are eligible to apply for this role. People on labour hire contracts, such as agency staff and contractors, are not eligible to apply.

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

This position is designated for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Confirmation of Aboriginality will be required for appointment to this position. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

We recognise the significant responsibility to enable self-determination, be accountable to Traditional Owners and provide opportunities to strengthen First Peoples' connection to Country. We are committed to creating a culturally safe environment, where individuals feel safe, valued, and able to celebrate their culture, and spiritual and belief systems.

For general information about Aboriginal Employment at DEECA, please contact self.determination@delwp.vic.gov.au.

We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.