Victoria’s 19 water corporations and ten catchment management authorities are encouraging applications for 115 open positions on their boards, with women particularly encouraged to apply.
Minister for Water, Lisa Neville, has invited applications to fill the director positions on water boards across the state, committing to once again reach the target of at least 50 per cent women.
Board directors come from all walks of life, including farmers, small business owners, project managers and other professionals.
Successful applicants will be tasked with managing the state’s water supplies and helping to drive action on climate change, and are expected to lead by example when it comes to promoting diversity.
Water corporations provide a range of services to customers, including water supply, sewage and trade waste disposal and treatment, water delivery for irrigation and domestic and stock purposes, drainage and salinity mitigation services.
Catchment management authorities are responsible for the integrated planning and coordination of land, water and biodiversity management in each catchment and land protection region.
The Victorian Government is working to increase diversity in water sector leadership, and applications are encouraged from Aboriginal people, Traditional Owners, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.
Promoting diverse participation on boards brings diversity in skills and perspectives, and strengthens the Victorian economy and the broader community. Victoria strives to have public sector boards that are highly effective and reflective of its diverse community.
The Victorian Government has invested $584 million to deliver water initiatives as a part of the state’s water plan, Water for Victoria, including a record $222 million investment for waterway health.
“We’re making sure Victoria’s water sector has the right skills and expertise to help protect Victoria’s water security,” Ms Neville said.
“Our last two water board appointment processes saw an equal number of men and women appointed, and we will strive to ensure this happens again, so that our Boards accurately reflect the communities they serve.”
“Healthy waterways are vital to sustain regional economies, provide recreational opportunities and support jobs and growth across the state.”
Expressions of interest for the water corporation and catchment management positions close on 1 April 2019.
More information on board vacancies and the expression of interest process is available at getonboard.vic.gov.au.