- Up to 3-year term commencing 1 November 2023
- Sitting fees to be shared upon request
The Advisory Committee on Social, Economic and Environmental Sciences (ACSEES) is an important source of independent, strategic advice to the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA). The committee is established under Section 203 of the Water Act 2007 and works to ensure the Basin Plan is implemented with the support of robust methodology, science and knowledge.
ACSEES reviews and advises on the science that informs Basin Plan implementation and review and the broader scientific context of the MDBA’s work, including environmental watering, adaptive management, climate change and the monitoring and evaluation of Basin Plan outcomes. Fostering partnerships and the communication of Basin science within academic, community and industry networks are also important components of the committee’s role.
We are seeking multiple committee members who bring a depth of understanding of issues relevant to implementing the Basin Plan and will have high-level expertise in one or more of the following fields: hydrology, ecology and natural resource management, climate science, economics, social and cultural values. Members will also have a demonstrated understanding of the relationship between these fields and the areas of water governance and law, and government and political processes. Members will have strong links with the scientific community in their field of expertise.
The Committee meets formally twice a year for two full days, with workshops, interactions with specific MDBA programs or teleconferences organized between formal meetings as required.
Membership is for up to 3 years, commencing 1 November 2023. Following completion of their tenure, the member may re-apply to the Committee.
Specific duties:
In this role you will contribute to the provision of independent, strategic advice to the Murray–Darling Basin Authority:
• Science Quality: provision of advice to improve the delivery of outputs developed by MDBA, to help to ensure that science is fit for purpose to meet objectives, scientific peer review and quality assurance.
• Science Health: provision of advice on science and capability and capacity related issues.
• Future: provision of advice to inform future direction and priorities.
• Engaging: engaging with internal MDBA staff on activities and emerging issues, and engaging externally with the research and knowledge community.
• Communications: provision of advice on the MDBA’s approach to key messaging, communiques and contribution to thought leadership in science and general population.
• Expert research, science contribution and design: provision of advice into research or scientific design.
The MDBA provides an ACSEES Secretariat to support the Chair and Members.
Capabilities
Committee members bring a depth of understanding of issues relevant to implementing the Basin Plan and will have high-level expertise in one or more of the following fields:
• Climate sciences
• Hydrology and water management
• Ecology and natural resource management
• Economics, social and cultural values,
• Water governance and law
• Government and political processes
• Integration of science to policy
Members will have strong links with the science and knowledge community in their field of expertise.
Demonstrable leadership capabilities and experience in similar committee structures, will also be highly regarded. Members will bring a strategic awareness of Murray-Darling Basin water policy challenges and an understanding of basin science related initiatives.
How to Apply:
To complete your application, you must provide your:
• CV; and
• Statement of claims of no more than 750 words outlining why you should be considered as a Member for the Advisory Committee on Social, Economic and Environmental Sciences.
Closing Date:
The closing date for submitted applications is 11:30pm AEDT Sunday 10 September 2023.
Enquiries:
Enquiries should be directed Deranie Jackson, Director, Science Acquisition on (02) 6279 0702 or Deranie.Jackson@mdba.gov.au.
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