The Department of Environmental and Water Regulation (DWER) is inviting Expressions of Interest from First Nations people across Western Australia to join the Aboriginal Water and Environment Advisory Group (AWEAG).
AWEAG provides expert advice to the department to ensure fair and balanced decisions around water and environmental management.
This involves providing feedback and analysis on the department’s strategies, programs and projects, as well as legislation.
AWEAG is co-chaired by an Aboriginal community member, nominated by group members, and the Director General of DWER, Alistair Jones.
“We are committed to working in partnership with First Nations people in the way we plan for Western Australia’s water and environmental future,” Mr Jones said.
“The Advisory Group plays a vital role in guiding fair and sustainable water and environmental practices across Western Australia and provides a meaningful platform for Aboriginal people to contribute to real decisions that will shape the future of our state.”
The group currently has seven members and is seeking to appoint another seven, with a focus on achieving gender balance and regional representation.
Applicants with experience in conservation, Aboriginal land and sea management and effective stakeholder engagement skills are encouraged to apply.
Successful candidates will be instrumental in advising on high-impact projects including the National Water Agreement, the National Agreement on Closing the Gap - Inland Water Targets, the WA Climate Adaptation Strategy and Exmouth Gulf Taskforce.
DWER recognises the significance of forming partnerships with First Nations people because of their profound cultural knowledge and connection to Country and living waters.
Ensuring Aboriginal knowledge, values and priorities are meaningfully embedded across Western Australia’s environment and water sectors is a departmental priority.
“This is about shared responsibility and real influence. By combining First Nations knowledge of Country with Western science, we’re ensuring that our decisions are informed, inclusive, and grounded in both cultural wisdom and scientific evidence,” Mr Jones said.
To register, visit https://www.wa.gov.au/service/environment/environment-information-services/aweag-membership. Expressions of interest close 28 September 2025.
DWER media contact – media@dwer.wa.gov.au
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