About the Office of the Appeals Convenor

The Office of the Appeals Convenor (OAC) plays a critical role in Western Australia’s environmental decision‑making framework. The Appeals Convenor provides independent advice to the Minister for Environment on appeals made under Part VII of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (EP Act), supporting informed, balanced and defensible outcomes.

The OAC is supported by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) for corporate services; however, staff are functionally independent and work under the direction of the Director of the OAC. This separation enables rigorous, impartial investigation of complex environmental matters that often sit at the intersection of science, regulation, policy and community interest.

The office brings together experienced environmental professionals who work collaboratively on investigations spanning environmental impact assessments, native vegetation clearing, licences and works approvals, vegetation conservation notices and noise approvals. Located in the Perth CBD, the OAC offers a professional, collegial environment with excellent access to transport, amenities and modern workplace facilities.

We care | We build trust | Better together | Open minds | We serve to make a difference

Find out more about us by visiting our websites at www.dwer.wa.gov.au and www.oac.wa.gov.au

The Opportunity

We are seeking to establish a pool of Senior Environmental Officers – Appeals (Specified Calling Level 3) to strengthen our capacity to deliver high‑quality, timely appeal investigations.

These roles offer the opportunity to work on matters of state significance, where technical rigour, sound judgement and clear communication directly inform Ministerial decision‑making. You will be trusted to manage complex issues, operate with professional independence, and contribute to outcomes that have lasting implications for Western Australia’s environment.

As a Senior Environmental Officer, you will be responsible for leading the investigation of assigned appeals from end to end. This includes critically reviewing environmental approval decisions under the Part IV and Part V of the EP Act, evaluating scientific and technical information, engaging constructively with proponents, agencies and other stakeholders, and identifying practical pathways to resolve contested matters. A key element of the role is preparing concise, well‑reasoned reports for the Appeals Convenor and the Minister.

You will also contribute to broader improvements in appeal investigation processes, share expertise within the team, and support the development of sound and consistent approaches across the appeals system.

This role aligns with the WA Public Sector Leadership Expectations at the Personal Leader level, focusing on individual contribution and professional conduct rather than formal leadership, this includes:

• Accountability for the quality, integrity and timeliness of own work
• Exercising sound judgement and ethical decision‑making in complex matters
• Communicating clearly and respectfully with a range of stakeholders
• Responding constructively to feedback and managing competing priorities
• Working collaboratively while remaining responsible for allocated assessments

Join the OAC

Working at the OAC offers meaningful exposure to high‑profile environmental issues, a strong sense of purpose, and the opportunity to apply your expertise where it has real influence.

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 Dom Misitano, Senior Manager - OAC Case Management on 08 6364 6762 or via email address at Dom.Misitano@oac.wa.gov.au during business hours.

• In accordance with the approved public sector salary adjustments, salary ranges will increase effective from 13 June 2026. For Specified Calling Level 3 (SCL3), the current salary range of $129,211 - $142,460 per annum will increase to $133,733 - $147,446 per annum.

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)
• A copy of your Bachelor of Science qualification (degree and transcript) in an environmental related field*

* Applicants who consider their degree is equivalent to a Bachelor of Science may be asked to confirm and evidence equivalency from the issuing university. Applicants with an overseas qualification must submit a valid assessment from the Overseas Qualification Unit (OQU). For more information visit migration.wa.gov.au

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 pool will operate for a period of 6 months with vacancies being offered at part or full time on a permanent or fixed term contract basis with the possibility of extension or permanency. Pool applicants do not hold a right of review against appointment decisions made from the pool.

CLOSING DATE: 4pm Thursday 21 May 2026 (Australian Western Standard Time)

Applications that are in progress or submitted after the closing time will not be accepted.