WA Local Government Association

Bushfire Risk Mitigation Coordinator

Bushfire Risk Mitigation Coordinator

Full-Time, Fixed Term Contract through to 30 June 2028

Total Package $110,296.04 per annum (inclusive of superannuation)

• Sector leading 6 weeks’ Annual Leave and 1 day anniversary leave per annum
• Engage with a diverse range of stakeholders in WALGA, DFES and Local Government
• Make a tangible difference in safety and resilience in a state-wide initiative of Local Government in WA

The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) are seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Bushfire Risk Mitigation Coordinator (BRMC) to join our dynamic team.

This role is co-hosted by WALGA's Emergency Management team and DFES's Bushfire Mitigation Branch. Together, we are committed to making a real difference in Local Government in Western Australia by developing and implementing effective bushfire treatment programs.

As a Bushfire Risk Mitigation Coordinator, you will play a crucial role in safeguarding communities by identifying and mitigating bushfire risks. Your work will involve close collaboration with Local Governments, DFES staff, and other stakeholders to ensure that bushfire treatment plans are meticulously planned, executed, and evaluated.

Opportunities like this are rare and underscores its critical importance in planning for the future and safeguarding our communities. It is not just a job; it's an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the safety and resilience of our communities.

What does a typical week look like?

A typical week in this role is diverse and dynamic.

You might find yourself reviewing bushfire risks and determining treatment priorities, ensuring that every decision is backed by thorough analysis and strategic planning. You will also be spending time preparing and managing grant applications to secure funding for mitigation programs, a critical task that ensures the necessary resources are available to implement effective treatment plans.

Your week could involve liaising with stakeholders to confirm appropriate treatment strategies and traveling to various regions to support Local Governments in their bushfire risk management efforts, providing on-the-ground assistance and expertise.

Overseeing contractors to ensure mitigation works are completed on time and within budget is another key aspect of your role, requiring strong project management skills and attention to detail, as you could also be facilitating prescribed burns and ensuring all data is accurately captured, combining hands-on fieldwork with meticulous data management.

Enough about us. Let’s talk about you.

We are looking for someone who is not only experienced in emergency management and bushfire risk management but also passionate about making a difference. You should have demonstrated experience in applying bushfire mitigation strategies, with a strong understanding of the principles and practices involved. Your conceptual, analytical, and critical thinking skills should be well-developed, enabling you to tackle complex challenges and develop effective solutions.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also essential, as you will need to consult effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including contractors, government officers, industry representatives, and private landowners. You should have a proven ability to plan, prioritise, and organise workloads to meet deadlines, ensuring that all tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard.

Experience working with IT-based systems for data entry, analysis, and reporting is also important. So, if you are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of Western Australians, we would love to hear from you.

This position requires a current 'C' Class Western Australian driver’s licence and an organisational funded police check.

Why you’ll love working here

At the heart of our organisation is our people. Most of our employees work at head office, based in West Leederville and we also have some regional employees.

We pride ourselves on offering a safe and inclusive culture with fantastic workplace benefits and entitlements, including setting budget aside for professional development. What we are most proud of is getting the chance to work on niche and interesting projects, with some incredibly talented people, on issues that matter.

We provide 6 weeks’ (30 days) annual leave, anniversary leave and a suite of flexible working options, as well as an employee wellbeing program Thrive@WALGA and an active social club.

Who are we?

The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) is an independent, member-based, not-for-profit organisation representing and supporting the WA Local Government sector.

Our membership includes all 139 Local Governments in the State. WALGA uses its influence, support, and expertise to deliver better outcomes for WA Local Governments and their communities. We do this through effective advocacy to all levels of Government on behalf of our members, and by the provision of expert advice, services, and support to Local Governments.

WALGA’s vision is for agile and inclusive Local Governments enhancing community wellbeing and enabling economic prosperity.

To find out more about us, please visit www.walga.asn.au

Apply now

Roles like this don’t come along often, so if this sounds like the role you have been looking for, please apply.

If you’re keen to talk about working at WALGA please contact our Policy Manager Emergency Management, Rachel Armstrong rarmstrong@walga.asn.au.

To talk about the practical aspects of this role, contact Sven Anderson, Superintendent Bushfire Mitigation Branch Sven.Andersen@dfes.wa.gov.au

Applications will close 12.00pm Friday, 14 February 2025. We may commence interviews upon receipt and reserve the right to close the position early.

To view the position description please visit our careers page

WALGA encourages people from different backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and people with disabilities.

This role is being sourced directly by WALGA and we respectfully request no agencies approach.