Executive Level 1 - Assistant Director, Sustainable Rivers Audit and Outlook Project

Job Description

Executive Level 1 - Assistant Director, Sustainable Rivers Audit and Outlook Project Section 26 Temporary Opportunity - APS Employees Only $118,049 to $129,870 (plus 15.4% superannuation) Canberra, Goondiwindi, Griffith, Mildura, Murray Bridge, Albury/Wodonga Join us to shape the future of one of Australia’s greatest natural assets and protect it for future generations. We are seeking a person who wants to contribute to a significant water reform program that aims to respond to the impacts of climate change, support community and industry needs, and improve access to water for First Nations people. The Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) is an independent government agency which, in partnership with Basin governments, manages the Murray–Darling Basin’s water resources in the national interest. With the enactment of the Water Act 2007, the MDBA was established as an independent expertise-based statutory agency. The MDBA aims to achieve a healthy working Basin for the benefit of all Australians. The Murray–Darling Basin contains a rich diversity of natural environments that are unique in Australia and the world. The Basin is also crucial to Australia’s economy and home to 2.3 million Australians, including people from over 50 First Nations. How we manage the Basin as a whole connected system, manage our water carefully, and protect it for future generations is set out in the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. The Position Are you looking for a dynamic high-profile project? The third Sustainable Rivers Audit (SRA3) project, within the Science Acquisitions branch, is part of the MDBA 2026 Basin Plan Review placing the SRA3 in close alignment with legislative requirements and MDBA’s strategic direction. The overarching scope of the SRA3 was agreed to by the Australian Minister for the Environment and Water in mid-2023. The SRA3 consists of three elements with the focus of this role being the design of a lasting, contemporary monitoring program for the environmental, economic, social and cultural condition of the Murray-Darling Basin, and accompanying business case. Initial work has begun on SRA 3.3 for you to bring this final deliverable for the SRA3 project to completion by mid-2025. The second component of this role will be as part of the senior project management team. Working through strategic management resolution, reporting and high-level project management. We are seeking a passionate and driven project management lead to join us at an Assistant Director, EL1 level. If you have experience in the below areas, we want to hear from you: Strategic project management, planning and implementation Key lead for delivery of project outcomes Project contract management and delivery within tight parameters Strong Stakeholder engagement Report and Ministerial writing Your key responsibilities in this role are: Manage the contract and key deliverable for the contemporary monitoring framework and business case (SRA3.3) including complex and sensitive project matters and provide strategic advice that is consistent, accurate and timely to the senior project team Maintain focus on quality to achieve outcomes and have a personal responsibility for seeing projects through to completion Be agile and resilient in adapting to changing priorities and needs, based on broader organisational requirements and priorities as shaped by external factors Foster relationships through collaboration and alignment with related internal program areas and external stakeholders Think strategically and recommend strategic directions for your area of responsibility and the broader SRA and Outlook programs where required including the identification of risks, provide strategic recommendations and implement mitigation tactics Provide support for internal program delivery to ensure the MDBA’s administrative framework and decision-making processes are met on time and fit for purpose Develop communication tools and messaging for intended audiences e.g. presentations, PowerPoint slides, etc to support internal program delivery Promote workplace practices consistent with the APS and MDBA Values, modelling high quality leadership and management practices, and creating a dynamic, flexible and collaborative workplace culture. What we offer you You will have the opportunity to work on projects where you contribute to shaping the future of one of Australia’s greatest natural assets and protect it for future generations. At the MDBA you will undertake a variety of interesting and challenging work. You will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and expertise, and work with the Australian community to support a critical resource management initiative. Competitive remuneration packages, including up to 15.4% superannuation, and recognition of prior APS government service. Generous leave provisions (four weeks annual leave) and additional Non-attendance days between Christmas and New Year provided. Being part of a smaller agency with a strong focus on its connection with people. Being part of a professional, committed, and friendly team of people. Being part of an organisation that recognises and values First Nations people, and their contribution to our work. We have an innovative Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) aimed at improving relationships, showing respect, and increasing opportunities to deliver outcome for First Nations peoples as part of our business-as-usual activities. Competitive Flexible Working Arrangements which allow greater flexibility and balance between work and personal needs with a baseline attendance in the office to be 40% of your time. A range of healthy lifestyle provisions, including access to a health and wellbeing program. Opportunities for professional development, and career progression across a variety of roles and work locations. Tell me more It is easy to apply for a job at the MDBA. Go to and tell us what makes you the ideal candidate. Take the opportunity to work with the MDBA as we continue to make a difference through the protection and enhancement of the environment. For more information regarding this opportunity contact Chris Pulkkinen, , 02 6279 0654. #J-18808-Ljbffr