El1, Assistant Directors

Join us to shape the future of one of Australia’s greatest natural assets and protect it for future generations. 

We are seeking people who want 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 Positions

We have two available positions for Assistant Directors. The roles are available within our Climate Adaptation and Decision-making Framework teams. 

As an Assistant Director you will lead and deliver high quality policy research and advice that supports the work of the MDBA. Their key focus is policy development and coordination to support the Sustainable Water Management team objectives and greater Basin Plan Review deliverables.  

These roles work closely with other parts of the Basin Plan Portfolio and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, other agencies of the Australian Government, the Basin States and Territories and wider stakeholders.

Your key responsibilities: 

• Manage a small team to deliver high quality work outputs against approved project plans and timeframes, including managing competing priorities, delivery risks and finding solutions to complex and emerging issues.
• Using an evidence-based approach, lead policy development coordination, including through consultancies, and procurement of contractors.
• Develop and maintain close working relationships with the Basin Plan Review teams, internally within the MDBA, as well as engaging with other government and non-government organisations, and members of the wider community.
• Assist with the preparation of briefing material, correspondence, submissions, contracts and other policy or operational documents.
• Work collaboratively and negotiate effectively on behalf of the agency to influence stakeholders and subject matter experts to deliver agreed business outcomes on a variety of complex or sensitive issues.
• Provide strategic advice and support to the Basin Plan Review leadership team on strategic issues, communication and engagement.
• Bring together key elements of the Basin Plan Review and determine the best method of approach using evaluative judgement.

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 www.mdba.gov.au/careers 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 these opportunities, please contact:

Assistant Director – Climate Adaptation - Yvette Bettini – **************@mdba.gov.au or 02 6279 0***.

Assistant Director – Decision-making Framework – Monika Muschal - **************@mdba.gov.au or 0475 270 ***.