Manager Strategic Communications & Engagement

Lead impactful communications and engagement for environmental outcomes.

- Full‑time (35 hours per week) opportunity
- Hybrid working supported across NSW, office location upon negotiation
- Salary relative to experience, ranges from $154,231 to $178,369 + super

Our Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) team is currently seeking to appoint a Manager Strategic Communications & Engagement to lead the delivery of strategic communications and engagement initiatives that build public confidence in water regulation and promote awareness of NSW water laws.

In this leadership role, you will oversee a specialist communications and engagement team responsible for delivering NRAR’s media, brand, stakeholder engagement and education programmes.

You will develop and implement strategic communication initiatives, manage reputational risks and emerging issues, oversee digital communication channels, and provide expert advice to senior leaders on complex communication and engagement matters.

Working closely with stakeholders across government, industry, First Nations communities and the broader community, you will help shape NRAR’s public profile and ensure explicit, consistent messaging that supports its regulatory objectives.

About You

- Proven leadership experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, media relations or corporate affairs.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver integrated communication, media, engagement and education strategies that achieve organisational objectives.
- Strong experience managing complex stakeholder environments and building productive relationships across government, industry, community and First Nations stakeholders.




- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, translating complex or technical information into clear and compelling messaging.
- Experience leading teams, coaching staff and fostering a high‑performing, collaborative culture.
- Strong project management skills, managing multiple priorities, competing deadlines and emerging issues.
- Demonstrated capability in media management, reputation management and strategic issue resolution.
- Experience using research, data and insights to inform communication strategies and drive behaviour change outcomes.
- Knowledge of regulation, water management, natural resources or public sector environments is highly regarded.
- Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment, manages the NSW national park estate and ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples.

NRAR enforces NSW water laws, offers guidance and education to help water users comply. We strive to be an efficient and effective regulator that celebrates and reflects the diversity of the community we serve.





Working with NRAR provides a chance to make sure water is used lawfully so that all communities and the environment get a fair share.

To Apply

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close 05 November at 11:55PM.

Eligibility: Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or valid Australian working visa for the duration of the appointment.

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing or contacting Michelle Mansour on (please mention reference number ).

We are committed to ensuring an accessible and supportive recruitment process. If you require any adjustments or accommodations at any stage, please let us know.

Photo stories: What’s going on behind every application?

We welcome applications from people of all ages, genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability or gender identity. Applicants of diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

As a high‑performing and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve, we value your lived experience and cultural knowledge, and we are committed to helping you thrive through flexible arrangements, workplace adjustments and a culture where everyone feels supported, connected and belongs.

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