Head of Public Affairs

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 position:
Help shape one of Australia’s most important water reform processes.

The Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) is seeking a senior strategic leader to take on the role of Head of Public Affairs at a pivotal moment for the organisation and the Basin. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role leads a key team responsible for delivering MDBA’s strategic communications and engagement priorities.

The Basin Plan Review has entered a critical engagement phase. MDBA is leading consultation with communities, First Nations stakeholders, industry, Basin states and the Commonwealth ahead of final review and implementation. At the same time, River Murray operations remain central to the efficient and effective functioning of Australia’s most productive agricultural region, with a significant and innovative program of work planned over the coming decade.

This role will drive stakeholder engagement across the Basin Plan Review, the broader water reform agenda and river operations, while providing trusted strategic advice at the Executive level. It will oversee communications, media and engagement delivery across the agency, working in close partnership with the Intergovernmental team and key government stakeholders. The role will also focus on strengthening and evolving the Public Affairs function, including developing and embedding a cohesive public affairs business partnering model across the organisation.

In doing so, the Head of Public Affairs plays a critical role in positioning MDBA as a trusted, forward looking organisation committed to its purpose: Rivers, for generations.

Your key responsibilities in this role are to:

Provide trusted strategic advice to the Chief Executive, Executive Board and the Murray–Darling Basin Authority, supporting major reforms, cultural transformation and business as usual activities.
Lead, strengthen and evolve the Public Affairs team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement.
Design and deliver an innovative, contemporary communications and engagement strategy aligned with MDBA’s organisational strategy, ambition and operating plans.
Lead the development and delivery of high impact communications, media and engagement initiatives across multiple channels and platforms.
Drive stakeholder engagement for the Basin Plan Review, the broader water reform agenda and river operations.
Build and maintain strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, ensuring MDBA’s voice is clear, credible and influential in a complex political, regulatory and community environment.
Work closely with the CEO, Executive Directors, General Managers and staff across the agency, as well as APS and state government partners, to advance MDBA priorities.
Develop and embed a cohesive public affairs business partnering model across the organisation.

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.
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 this opportunity contact Jill Henderson, jill@fraximsearch.com, +64 12 344 468.

Note: An Individual Flexibility Agreement (IFA) will be negotiated with the successful candidate.

Head of Public Affairs – Position Description (DOCX)

Head of Public Affairs – Position Description (PDF)