Director, Water Planning

**The Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV), previously known as the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, is at the forefront of driving sustainable growth across Queensland. Our mission is to manage water resources responsibly and empower councils to support and grow Queensland communities. With over 700 dedicated professionals across Brisbane and regional offices, we work tirelessly to ensure that Queensland's communities, businesses, and water resources thrive.
The Role
The Director Water Planning is responsible for all water planning activities required for water plans located within North Region. Water plans are developed under the Water Act 2000 to sustainably manage and allocate water resources in Queensland.
Key Duties and Accountabilities
- Lead a team of 17 staff to deliver water planning and implementation of science functions/First Nations engagement within North Region.
- Contribute to the development and review of water plans and Ministerial Reports for water plans in North Region.
- Undertake technical assessments (environmental, economic, social, hydrologic, and cultural data), as well as extensive stakeholder engagement to understand and plan for further water needs.
- Engage with the Commonwealth on accredited water resource plans and other Commonwealth related matters.
- Represent the department at both key state and national water initiates and forums.
- Delivery of science related programs to support water planning and intergovernmental agreements.
- Lead engagement with First Nations people to understand and deliver indigenous water reserves
- Other duties as directed and required.
Competencies
As a program leader in the role of Director - Water Planning, SO, the following competencies from the Leadership competencies for Queensland are most relevant to this role:
Vision
- Leads strategically - Recognises and articulates how the team's work contributes to the organisation's vision and community outcomes.
- Stimulates ideas and innovation - Challenges the status quo, asks questions and seeks out new models and developments that may inform the team's approach.
- Makes insightful decisions - Remains composed during high-stakes situations, supporting the team to recognise gaps in information and seek advice to enable a prompt and considered response.
Results
- Builds enduring relationships - Initiates two-way collaborations by providing information and advice in a timely, proactive and non-technical manner, supporting the team to do the same.
- Drives accountability and outcomes - Works with the team to develop shared objectives and clear indicators for success.
- Inspires others - Charts a clear direction for the team by consistently communicating the greater meaning and impact of the work undertaken.
Accountability
- Demonstrates sound governance - Promotes integrity in the management and use of processes and resources, ensuring others have the information and training they need for successful implementation.
- Pursues continuous growth - Embraces opportunities to expand knowledge and experience through networks, new assignments and development avenues.
- Fosters healthy and inclusive workplaces - Demonstrates flexibility and openness to the diversity in the team, supporting approaches that enable all individuals to participate to their fullest ability.
This position is available at the following locations: Ayr, Cairns, Mackay, Mareeba, Longreach, Rockhampton, South Johnstone, Townsville, Brisbane. Please advise your preference with your application
Applications to remain current for 12 months.
Job Ad Reference: QLD/654991/25
Closing Date: Monday, 01 September 2025This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License.**