Director Local Water Utilities Policy & Regulation

The Water Group leads the NSW Government in providing confidence to communities and stakeholders with the transparent stewardship of water resources, provision of services and reforms that support sustainable and healthy environments, economies and societies across NSW.

The Water Group is seeking to appoint a Director Local Water Utilities Policy & Regulation, a key senior executive role in building confidence across Government that Local Water Utility regulation is being effectively delivered, including strategies for dealing with the impact of climate change and emerging risks.  

The Director Local Water Utilities Policy & Regulation leads the provision of regional coordination, as well as independent advice and training to local water utilities to support them in the development of effective strategic planning, and the effective operation of treatment plants, working in partnership with customers and stakeholders to achieve great outcomes for the community.

Key accountabilities are…

• Lead development of the NSW Government’s policy and regulatory framework for local water utilities across regional NSW.
• Provide strategic advice, briefings and policy support to Ministers and senior executives on local water utility matters.
• Oversee regulatory approvals and compliance assessments for water, wastewater, recycled water and trade waste infrastructure.
• Lead engagement with local water utilities to provide technical, operational and emergency management support, including infrastructure planning and funding advice.
• Ensure strong governance, risk management and transparent program delivery aligned with government priorities.
• Represent the department on state and national forums to promote whole-of-government approaches to water utility management.
• Provide leadership and direction to statewide regulatory and inspection teams.

• Sound knowledge and understanding of the environment, energy, climate change and/or water portfolios, including regulatory frameworks and policy development processes for water.
• Demonstrated management and leadership skills at a high level within and across organisations.

• Relevant tertiary qualifications or equivalent professional experience.
• Demonstrated understanding and knowledge of relevant legislation, professional standards and policies, practices and processes as they relate to the water sector.

For more information read the full Role Description: Director Local Water Utilities Policy & Regulation

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) work to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

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 in the management of the environment.

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.

Please also note, to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Ty Brennock via ty.brennock@dcceew.nsw.gov.au.

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability  
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Ty Brennock via ty.brennock@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0400 231 505 (please mention reference number 550575).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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Advertised: 28 May 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 10 Jun 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time

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