This targeted position is only open for Public Sector employees
Join Us in Shaping Western Australia's Future
Late last year, the Premier announced Western Australia’s commitment to develop a new bilateral agreement with the Commonwealth to streamline environmental assessments—reducing duplication while ensuring strong protections for our unique environment.
We are establishing a new, dynamic team within the Nature Directorate to oversee the high-level negotiations with the Commonwealth to develop the bilateral agreement and support its implementation.
This is a rare opportunity to deliver one of the Premier's top priorities, overseen by the Premier and the Minister of Environment working across the WA Government and with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).
We are seeking experienced and motivated public sector employees. If you thrive in fast paced, collaborative environments and enjoy working flexibly as a team to address complex policy and regulatory issues — we’d love to hear from you.
Be part of something bigger. Be part of DWER.
We care | We build trust | Better together | Open minds | We serve to make a difference
Find out more about us by visiting our website at www.dwer.wa.gov.au
The Opportunity:
Lead a specialist team delivering a Premier‑endorsed initiative that will reshape how environmental assessments are undertaken across the State.
This is a one‑year fixed‑term opportunity with the possibility of extension.
The Program Director leads a specialist team that is responsible for developing, negotiating and delivering a bilateral agreement for assessments under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. This includes managing complex negotiations, establishing clear governance and delivery arrangements, and ensuring alignment across State and Commonwealth systems and processes.
The role requires close engagement with senior stakeholders across government, including the Environmental Protection Authority, Commonwealth agencies, and internal business areas. The Program Director will also be a member of the Nature Directorate Senior Leadership Team and will contribute to a collaborative and high performing culture.
What we are looking for
We are seeking an individual who can demonstrate:
- Significant experience leading multidisciplinary teams to deliver high profile and complex programs or projects within challenging timeframes
- The ability to operate confidently in environments characterised by uncertainty, legislative complexity and competing priorities
- A strong record of building effective relationships with senior stakeholders and achieving outcomes through collaboration and influence
- The capacity to deliver results through sound governance, project management and strategic oversight
- A commitment to the values of the Western Australian public sector and the ability to model leadership behaviours consistent with the department’s expectations
This role requires comprehensive knowledge of environmental legislation and its application to assessment and approvals systems.
At the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, we are committed to fostering a modern workplace that supports flexibility, collaboration, and wellbeing.
Our flexible work arrangements include options for alternative work locations and adaptable schedules, designed to accommodate a variety of professional and personal needs.
We recognise that effective work can happen in different settings, and our approach reflects this, enabling staff to contribute meaningfully while maintaining balance and resilience.
We are committed to creating an equitable and diverse workforce that promotes an inclusive and supportive workplace environment. We value the unique diversity of experience that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, women and youth bring to our workforce.
Join us and be part of a department that values innovation, inclusivity, and the evolving nature of work.
For further information about the opportunity, we encourage you to contact Carrie Sunderland, Executive Director Nature on 08 6364 6654 or via email Carrie.Sunderland@dwer.wa.gov.au during business hours.
How to apply
If you believe you have what it takes to succeed in this opportunity, please apply online by clicking the ‘Apply for Job’ button (above or below) and provide the following in Word or PDF format:
- A comprehensive CV that details your experience relevant to this opportunity;
- A two (2) page cover letter outlining the key responsibilities and achievements you have had during your career in context of the work related requirements.
- Two (2) referees (one preferred to be a current supervisor or recent manager)
Please Note:
- To be eligible for appointment, applicants must have documentary evidence of entitlement to live and work in Australia for the duration of the employment opportunity.
- DWER conducts employment screening which may include a National Criminal History check.
For technical difficulties while applying online or information about the application process, please contact us for assistance on (08) 6364 7800 or at recruitment@dwer.wa.gov.au – email address not to be used for submission of applications.
Access Needs
We use the National Relay Service (NRS) to ensure we are accessible to people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. NRS can help you connect with us on:
- TTY/voice calls – 133 677
- Speak & Listen – 1300 555 727
- SMS relay – 0423 677 767
If you have any access needs that may require adjustment to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, including alternate methods of communication, or to request a document in an alternative format please contact us at recruitment@dwer.wa.gov.au or on (08) 6364 7800.
This process may be used to fill similar vacancies that may arise within DWER and across the WA public sector over the next twelve (12) months. Vacancies may be full-time or part-time, permanent or fixed term with possibility of extension or permanency in a variety of metropolitan and regional locations.
Applicants found suitable but not recommended for this vacancy may be considered for subsequent vacancies in accordance with Part 5 (General Appointment) of Commissioner's Instruction 2: Filling a Public Sector Vacancy.
CLOSING DATE: 4pm Tuesday 17 March 2026 (Australian Western Standard Time)
Applications that are in progress or submitted after the closing time will not be accepted.
