Manager Freedom of Information

About the role

This is a permanent opportunity with the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER). The Manager Freedom of Information leads the Freedom of Information Services Section within the Strategy and Performance Portfolio, reporting to the Assistant Director – Governance, Risk and Audit. The role is responsible for the delivery of services relating to the release of information to external parties, including applications under the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (FOI Act). You will oversee the Department's information release function, ensuring compliance with legislative requirements while supporting transparency, accountability and effective decision-making. As the Department's subject matter expert, you will provide high-level advice to senior leaders, delegated decision-makers and stakeholders on complex and sensitive matters involving access to information and records.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the coordination and processing of FOI applications, legal discovery requests and subpoenas

• Review draft Notice of Decisions

• Represent the Department in matters before the Information Commissioner

• Lead the development of policies, guidelines and reporting frameworks that support best practice information governance

• Lead, develop and coach staff, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture

• Identify and assess emerging risks, analyse complex information and implement effective, evidence-based strategies

• Build and maintain productive relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders

• Manage competing priorities and meet statutory and organisational deadlines

About you

• Demonstrated experience leading, developing and coaching staff

• Well-developed knowledge and experience in applying the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (WA), including the management of applications, exemptions, third-party consultation processes, internal reviews, and statutory decision-making requirements

• Demonstrated ability to identify and assess emerging risks, analyse complex information, exercise sound judgement, and implement effective, evidence-based strategies

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain productive relationships, collaborate and negotiate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders

• Highly developed organisational and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes in a complex environment

• Strong communication skills and ability to provide sound advice

• Knowledge of public sector legislation, frameworks and governance requirements

For further information about the opportunity, we encourage you to contact Emilee Rippon, Assistant Director - Governance, Risk and Audit on (08) 6364 7411 or via email *************@dwer.wa.gov.au

Want to hear more about this role? Click the Apply link to be directed to the Jobs WA website for further information and application submission.

CLOSING DATE: 4PM 3RD SEPTEMBER 2026 (AWST)