Local recruitment: Water Policy Lead

Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC)

Kalimna VIC, Australia 🇦🇺

Shape the future of water management on Gunaikurnai Country.

Help shape the future of water governance on Gunaikurnai Country. As the Water Policy Lead, you’ll drive meaningful policy reform, influence strategic decision-making, and champion Gunaikurnai self-determination in water management. Working alongside Elders, Traditional Owners, government and industry partners, you’ll ensure Gunaikurnai knowledge, cultural values and community priorities are at the heart of water policy, planning and the management of Country.

About GLaWAC:

Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) represents the Traditional Owners of Gippsland, the Gunaikurnai people. The role of GLaWAC is to meet the aspirations of the Whole of Country Plan and to support members through Native Title related matters. Come and join our fantastic team!

About the Position

The Water Policy Lead plays a key role in supporting Gunaikurnai self-determination in water governance by removing barriers that impact GLaWAC’s ability to hold, use and manage water in a culturally appropriate way. The role advocates for legislative reform, influences policy development and supports culturally safe approaches across the water sector. The position leads policy and planning for the Water is Life – Learning by Doing projects and contributes to DEECA-led water initiatives. It ensures Gunaikurnai Country, cultural values and community priorities are central to the management of GLaWAC’s water entitlements, waterways and catchments. Working collaboratively with Elders, Traditional Owners, government agencies, water authorities and key partners, the Water Policy Lead builds strong relationships and advocates for the meaningful inclusion of Gunaikurnai knowledge and priorities in water policy, planning and decision-making.

Essential Skills/Experience

  • Commitment to Gunaikurnai values, Country, community and self-determination.
  • Ability to analyse complex problems and provide response options that build a compelling case for change.
  • Senior level experience in water policy, environmental planning, government policy, natural resource management or related fields.
  • Demonstrated high level achievement within government or regulatory setting, preferably in the fields of water governance, environmental water management or water markets.
  • Strong communication skills, including writing for diverse audiences.
  • Ability to work across agencies and coordinate complex projects.

Desirable Skills/Experience

  • Qualifications, or relevant experience, in policy, environmental management, water resources, law, economics or similar fields
  • Experience working with Traditional Owner organisations or Aboriginal communities.
  • Ability to work independently, stay organised and follow through.
  • Strong relationship building and negotiation skills.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office and basic digital tools.

Why should you join us?

Supportive Team Environment

Financial benefits of Salary Packaging

Excellent Cultural and Personal Development Opportunities

How to Apply –

Send: 1. Cover Letter – Tell us why you would be great for this position and,

2. Resume – showing us relevant experience for this position.

3. Go to our website https://gunaikurnai.org/jobs and apply.

For further information call (03) 5152 5100 or go to our website: https://gunaikurnai.org/ or email jobs@glawac.com.au

People of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage are encouraged to apply

Applications Close – Sunday 16/08/26

11 days remaining

Apply by 16 August, 2026

POSITION TYPE

EXPERIENCE-LEVEL

IHE Delft - MSc in Water and Sustainable Development