Program Manager Coastal Planning and Approvals

The Program Manager Coastal Planning and Approvals leads a team responsible for high-quality statutory assessments and advice in the context of marine and coastal policy and legislation. You will drive consistent statewide processes, interpretation of marine and coastal frameworks and continuous improvement. You will use your knowledge and technical expertise across legislation, marine and coastal policy, and planning, to deliver government objectives and priorities including the assessment of complex Marine and Coastal Act consents and strategic Coastal and Marine Management Plans. You will build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, drive improvements and set clear directions for a customer focussed, collaborative and engaged team. 

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A relevant tertiary qualification such as planning, science, or environment is desirable.
• Experience in marine and coastal management, preparing and delivering land use advice and managing approvals would be advantageous.
• Experience leading a high performing team​.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within the Port Phillip, Gippsland or BSW region with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers. 

Click the ‘Apply’ button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.

Applications close 11.59pm on Thursday, 10 September 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply.  We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace.  If you need support to participate, please contact aboriginal.employment@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing.  For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.