Relaunched in 2025, the Environmental Industry Secondment Program is an opportunity for environmental professionals working within the resources sector to gain first-hand experience in environmental assessment at the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration (DMPE).
The program involves fixed-term placements for a six-to-twelve-month period, based at Mineral House, 100 Plain Street, East Perth.
These placements are designed to enhance collaboration between industry and government, assist in the delivery of risk-based and timely assessments of applications, and strengthen public confidence in environmental decision-making.
Carissa is currently completing an industry secondment. She applied for the role because it offered a unique opportunity to gain insight into the approvals process from a government perspective and to build working relationships across the department.
“The experience has given me a much clearer understanding of how proposals are interpreted and assessed within DMPE, which I’ll take back to my industry role,” says Carissa.
“I’ve gained valuable insight into the importance of aligning submissions with guidance, and how clear communication streamlines the approvals process. I’m also taking back a greater appreciation of the regulatory considerations behind closure outcomes, risk pathways and tenement conditions. Overall, the experience will help me prepare stronger, clearer, and more assessment ready proposals.”
Expressions of interest open
Following the success of our most recent intake, the department is now seeking further expressions of interest in the program. There are fixed-term placements available for senior environmental officer roles within the Mining Environmental Compliance and Mine Closure and Environmental Services branches.
DMPE is looking to take on new rotation of secondees from 1 June, however timing and period of rotation can be negotiated.
Secondees will have a hands-on role assessing Native Vegetation Clearing Permits and Mining Development and Closure Proposals (MDCPs) under the department’s emerging MDCP and Approvals Statement framework.
To express your interest, please contact rec.consultation@dmpe.wa.gov.au with your resume and details about your current employment.
Please note that support from your employer will be required.
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