About Us
As Western Australia’s leading hazard management agency, DFES performs a critical role coordinating emergency services for a range of natural disasters and emergency incidents threatening life and property.
By empowering our people, we create a diverse and capable organisation where we are united and supportive allowing us to work better together. It’s crucial that as a collective, our employees, volunteers and the general public have all the tools they need to safely and effectively manage emergency events.
About the Role
This is a key leadership role responsible for the delivery and continuous improvement of the State’s recovery funding function. Reporting to the Director Recovery Funding, you will lead the administration of claims reimbursement and grant programs that support communities, local governments and State agencies to recover from disasters.
Operating with the State and Commonwealth funding arrangements, you will work collaboratively across all levels of government to translate policy into practical outcomes. You will build strong partnerships with State agencies, local governments and the Commonwealth, influence decision‑making and navigate complex funding environments to ensure timely, fair and consistent access to recovery assistance.
You will provide strategic and operational leadership across the full lifecycle of recovery funding—overseeing claims, grants, governance, assurance and reporting—while identifying priorities and delivering results in a dynamic, high‑pressure environment.
A core focus of the role is leading the design and implementation of enhanced systems, processes and tools to strengthen the efficiency, transparency and scalability of the State’s recovery funding function. You will drive continuous improvement by standardising approaches, improving performance and supporting better decision‑making across government.
You will lead a high‑performing team, build capability and foster a collaborative, values‑driven culture aligned to public sector leadership expectations. The role requires agility and resilience, ensuring the function can scale to meet surge demands during disaster events such as cyclones, floods and bushfires.
There will be opportunities to travel across Western Australia to engage with stakeholders and support recovery activities when required.
Employment Conditions and Additional Information
DFES is an emergency services organisation and all employees may be required to work or travel outside of normal business hours to assist with emergencies and additional allowances may apply.
Whilst primarily based at Como/West Perth, flexible working arrangements may be considered in line with operational requirements.
Benefits of Working With DFES
As well as a great salary and being a part of something rewarding with key networking opportunities, our employees also enjoy an amazing range of benefits which may include:
* Opportunities to assist during statewide emergency incidents.
* Great work/life balance through flexible working and leave arrangements.
* Long service leave after 7 years.
* Paid parental leave as well as other attractive leave options.
* Access to salary packaging options.
* Professional career development opportunities.
Eligibility To Apply
You must be an Australian Citizen or hold permanent residency to be considered for permanent appointments or hold a working visa covering the term of the contract (proof must be provided with your application) to be eligible for this position.
National Police Certificate
A condition of employment for new employees of DFES is that a current National Police Certificate (less than 3 months old) is provided prior to commencement.
Choice of Super
The Fire and Emergency Services (Superannuation Fund) Regulations 1986 prevents DFES from offering choice of super for permanent appointments. Those appointed permanently, only have the following two options:
* Remain with their existing GESB Superannuation account.
* Join the Fire and Emergency Services Superannuation Fund.
Those appointed on a fixed term contract do have choice of super; however if converted to permanent, employees will need to choose one of the two options listed above.
DFES Supports Diversity and Inclusion
DFES supports inclusion and diversity and advocates the value of inclusiveness where all DFES personnel are encouraged to contribute fully and are recognised and valued for their differences in an environment that is free from discrimination and the negative effects of bias, both conscious and unconscious.
People from culturally diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal Australians and people with a disability are encouraged to apply. DFES may prioritise recruitment decisions based on the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA).
Leadership Behaviours
Leadership Behaviours are applicable to this role, and you are expected to demonstrate the relevant behaviours aligned to the context of Leading Others. Additional details on expected behaviours are attached.
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