We are seeking an experienced policy and/or project management professional to join our team with broad skills in the delivery of regulatory permitting/licensing systems. The role combines strategic policy and legislative reform, risk-based service improvement, stewardship of current systems and reporting, and development of the business case and transition to a contemporary digital permits system under limited direction with reasonable autonomy and accountability.

You will be a team player, working closely and collaboratively with other areas of the Reef Authority, the Australian and Queensland government’s Reef Joint Field Management Program, Traditional Owners and other Queensland and Commonwealth government partner agencies as well as a diverse network of stakeholders.

What you'll do

- Lead a multi-disciplinary team in a dynamic environment to deliver high quality outcomes, meet deadlines and achieve organisational goals.
- Drive contemporary policy, legislative frameworks and business systems to support a risk-based permissions and compliance program that is effective across the Commonwealth and State marine park jurisdictions for the Great Barrier Reef, including high quality and timely briefing and strategic advice to Senior Management
- Provide business ownership and strategic oversight of current permissions systems, data and reporting, including system performance, data quality, business continuity, reporting capability, governance, prioritisation of enhancements and coordination with ICT teams and service providers.
- Develop and maintain effective working relationships, including working collaboratively and persuasively, with Australian and Queensland government agencies, Traditional Owners, research institutions and industries that use the Great Barrier Reef.




- Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to negotiate persuasively, and provide high quality briefs, reports, presentations and submissions.
- Ensure high team performance and encourage a productive, collegiate and happy team environment, modelling the Reef Authority’s culture and behaviour standards.

What you'll bring

- You have sound judgement and are a natural problem solver, a doer and are known for seeing things through to completion.
- You can develop clear, evidence-based policies, guidelines and legislative proposals; navigate government approval processes; and negotiate jointly supported outcomes with partner agencies, ideally in an environmental management / marine protected area context.
- You enjoy leading and being part of a cohesive, high performing team.
- You provide quality risk-based advice to senior management and have a good understanding of government processes and requirements.
- You possess excellent communication skills and produce clear, concise and persuasive material for a variety of audiences.
- You are agile in managing evolving priorities and complex projects while maintaining delivery of core functions and longer-term strategic outcomes.

Why join the Reef Authority?

At the Reef Authority, you'll build a meaningful career while helping protect one of the world's most iconic natural assets. We offer a supportive, adaptable and purpose-driven workplace where your work has real impact.

You'll enjoy competitive APS employment conditions, including up to 15.4% employer superannuation, flexible working arrangements, wellbeing initiatives, professional development opportunities and a collaborative culture committed to protecting the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

Ready to take the next step? Apply now to join the Reef Authority.

📌 Assistant Director Permission Systems & Strategy (Townsville)
🏢 Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
📍 Townsville