Water Regulations Officer

Role overview

The Water Regulations and Standards Section supports the Bureau’s core responsibilities under the Water Act 2007 and the Water Regulations 2008. Its work focuses on collecting, managing and sharing national water information, while keeping the process efficient and accessible.

In its regulatory capacity, the Bureau partners with water data providers and users to keep reporting practical, reduce unnecessary compliance effort and ensure valuable water information remains publicly available. Operating as a national and independent body, the Bureau also works across jurisdictions to support water reform, provide leadership in national water information and encourage greater consistency in water data standards.

What this role does

The Water Regulations Officer helps administer the Commonwealth Water Regulations 2008 and national water information standards. The role contributes to the stewardship of Australia’s water data so it can support informed decision-making and create measurable value for the Australian community.

The position involves working within regulatory and governance frameworks, supporting compliance activities and helping ensure that policies, procedures and guidelines are followed consistently.

Key focus areas

This role is responsible for building and sustaining strong working relationships with data providers and data users. It also supports the Section in developing a reliable network across regulators, policy teams and regulated entities to advance the Bureau’s water information standards and regulatory objectives.

In addition, the role helps create internal awareness and support within the Bureau for regulatory responsibilities. It involves collaborating with technical specialists and subject matter experts to identify ways the Bureau’s capabilities can better align with national water data and information needs.

Working style

The position suits someone who is proactive, adaptable and comfortable working in a changing environment where priorities can shift. The work calls for sound judgement when interpreting legislation and applying complex regulatory frameworks.

Successful candidates will be collaborative, quick to adapt to new priorities and confident in tackling problems while continuing to build expertise through day-to-day learning. Strong communication skills and a genuine interest in ongoing development in data governance and regulatory practice are important.

Purpose of the team

This is a national role within a team focused on supporting the long-term interests of the Australian community through effective delivery of the Water Act. The work also helps maintain public trust in the Bureau’s water-related functions.