Local recruitment: Regulatory and Government Relations Advisor

Government of South Australia

Adelaide SA, Australia 🇦🇺

Department for Energy and Mining
Job reference: 711926
Location: 5000 – ADELAIDE
Job status: Short Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

The Department for Energy and Mining is committed to building a diverse and flexible culture. We encourage and welcome all applications from women, diverse community groups and ages, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and people with disabilities.

About the opportunity:

An exciting opportunity has become available for a Regulatory and Government Relations Advisor to join the Northern Water Commercial Unit within the Department for Energy and Mining (DEM). This 12 month contract role is pivotal in shaping regulatory frameworks and driving intergovernmental engagement for one of South Australia’s most transformative infrastructure projects.

About us:
The Department for Energy and Mining (DEM) leads the global transformation economy, overseeing the responsible mining and production of the minerals, metals and fuels of the future, to safely and sustainably generate the energy and low carbon products of the future.

Our low-cost power, leading regulation system and culture of innovation is leading to the decarbonisation of industry, new modern manufacturing opportunities, increased employment and greater prosperity and security for the people of South Australia.

We particularly acknowledge the essential role that traditional Aboriginal people play in the energy and mining sector as land managers, heritage custodians, business owners and community leaders.

The Northern Water Commercial Unit (NWCU) sits at the heart of the Department for Energy and Mining’s (DEM) ambition to unlock South Australia’s next wave of growth. A dynamic hub driving the commercial and financial outcomes for the Northern Water Project, NWCU ensures the delivery of a climate-resilient water supply to support world-class copper production and regional development.

With a strong focus on strategic partnerships and rigorous governance, NWCU leads critical activities including water offtake agreements, bankability assessments, pricing frameworks, regulatory planning, and the establishment of project structures. Its commitment to excellence and innovation positions NWCU as the driving force behind DEM’s vision for sustainable resource development, economic prosperity, and long-term water security for northern South Australia.

What we offer:

  • Enjoy opportunities for professional development, training, and career growth
  • Be part of a values-driven organisation committed to excellence, safety, and integrity
  • Flexible Work Arrangements – Enjoy a balanced lifestyle with options for hybrid working and flexible hours
  • Prime Location – Adelaide CBD, Waymouth Street, close to public transport, shops, and amenities
  • Active People and Culture agenda â€“ Employee Assistance Program, diversity and inclusion training and events, DEM social club and much more!
  • We are a White Ribbon Accredited workplace that promotes gender equality and a zero tolerance of violence in the workplace

Key Selection Criteria:

Please only address the dot points listed below in your application

  • Demonstrated experience in policy development implementation or legislative processes within government or public sector context
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills including preparing high quality briefing materials and submissions
  • Well developed interpersonal skills to build productive relationships across government and external stakeholders
  • Sound understanding of government decision making processes including Cabinet and Ministerial pathways

Qualifications:

  • Relevant tertiary qualification or significant equivalent experience.

Remuneration:
Salary range $108,109 to $116,864 per annum plus superannuation
12 month contract
ASO7 classification, full-time role (37.5 hours per week).

Special Conditions:

  • Appointment subject to satisfactory National Police Check.
  • Some out-of-hours work may be required.
  • Flexible work arrangements available.

Enquiries:
Joelle Hentschke
Project Administrator
joelle.hentschke@sa.gov.au

Application Instructions:
Applicants are required to submit a curriculum vitae and written application of no more than two pages, demonstrating their suitability for the role by addressing the key selection criteria above. Applicants are to include the name, address and contact number of three current referees.

All applicants are required to complete and submit the Employment Declaration.

Please note that applications for this role are open over the holiday break but won’t be reviewed until the New Year
Applications close: 12/01/2026 11:30 PM

Attachments:
– Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
– Regulatory and Government Advisor ASO7 – October 2025 – Role Statement.pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

3 days remaining

Apply by 12 January, 2026

POSITION TYPE

ORGANIZATION TYPE

EXPERIENCE-LEVEL

IHE Delft - MSc in Water and Sustainable Development