Project Officer French Island Koala Management Plan

The French Island Koala Management Plan Project Officer is responsible for leading the development of a plan that establishes a strategic and long-term approach to the management of the French Island koala population. The koala population on French Island was artificially established in the 1880s. Koala health is being impacted by a combination of factors, including loss of suitable habitat due to over-browsing. This issue has generated significant public interest and prompted immediate actions by land managers such as population health assessments. DEECA has decided to initiate a project that allows development of a more strategic approach to koala management on the island. The Project Officer will be responsible for co-ordinating the development of a Koala Management Plan in partnership with stakeholders including Bunarong, Parks Victoria, and local residents and landowners.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

Desirable

• Experience in complex project management and governance, and a demonstrated ability to produce high-quality written reports.
• A demonstrated ability to communicate to a diverse audience and to work effectively with Traditional Owners.
• Experience leading significant stakeholder relationship management and partnerships, ideally related to wildlife protection or land management.
• Understanding of relevant Victorian and national environmental legislation, policy frameworks, and conservation strategies.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 12 Months. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria 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. 

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Applications close 11.59pm on Thursday, 15 October 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.