The Senior Manager, Aboriginal Water Reforms identifies emerging risks and opportunities, and shapes future settings for increasing Traditional Owner involvement in water management and access to water. The role leads and coordinates water portfolio preparedness to deliver on government commitments and support Aboriginal self-determination. As part of this, the position will lead critical policy and program reforms to enable restorative water justice and equip the water portfolio for Treaty readiness.

This role requires a person with understanding and experience in Aboriginal stakeholder engagement, Aboriginal water policy and government commitments and legislative obligations to Aboriginal people in Victoria. A strong understanding of Victoria's entitlement and planning frameworks and experience in previous policy reforms such as the creation of Environmental Water Holder and environmental water arrangements is also desirable.

This position is classified as an “identified position” aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People. The position requires an in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an ability to communicate with Aboriginal communities. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• An appropriate qualification in water and natural resource management or approved equivalent would be desirable 
• Skills and knowledge of Aboriginal culture and contemporary issues affecting Aboriginal Victorians today is required
• Skills and knowledge of the development and implementation of previous policy reforms such as creation of Environmental Water Reform and environmental water arrangements is desirable

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria 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.

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday, 22 January 2025.  

Other relevant information:

For this particular vacancy, priority consideration applies to Victorian Public Service (VPS) and select employees of the Victorian Public Sector who apply through the Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) jobs board platform.

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.  

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.  

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. 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.

This position is classified as an “identified position” aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People. The position requires an in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an ability to communicate with Aboriginal communities. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged 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.