Cassi
Background
OK, so you've got the degree. Now what? If you're anything like I was you're probably sitting there flicking through the grad brochures, tossing up options and mourning the loss of student holidays....and hoping all this can be achieved before you reach the bottom of your last packet of Smith's Crisps.
On reflection, it hardly surprises me that I ended up working in the environmental arena. Following in the footsteps of several generations, I grew up in (Shock! Horror! Gulp!) regional New South Wales. Over these years, I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by people who knew the value of open space and conservation. After proudly completing my education at the local public high school, I commenced a Bachelor of Business (Banking / Legal Studies) degree at Charles Sturt University. Following two and a half years of finance, it was only be chance that I opted for an environmental law subject in my final semester and thoroughly enjoyed it.
When it came to selecting a grad program, I almost didn't apply to this one after reading the previous year's grad profile (under the very impressive link of 'Graduate Alumni', I believe). Subsequently, the best advice I could render those among you who don't (as yet) have a PhD/extensive overseas work experience/a Nobel Prize nomination or the ability to speak three languages is to put your application forward anyway. While the above are all admirable traits, the truth of the matter is that DEWHA values diversity and will offer you opportunities and support to pursue interests beyond the expected. So, if you're a little bit quirky (but not in a creepy way) or otherwise different from the profiles you read here, that must mean one thing....we need you!
Placements
First Placement
Water Reform Division / Water Resources Branch / Water Planning Section
During my time in this rotation I worked on:
- The new Murray-Darling Basin Plan currently being developed by the recently formed Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA). The Plan is due for release in 2011. I was involved in developing a framework through which to assess the Plan from the Australian Government perspective. I was able attend various MDBA committee meetings and consult specialised agencies such as CSIRO.
- COAG involvement. This work involved our team working with the States to improve how environmental water is managed on a national-scale.
- Contingency planning. Our objective was to ensure critical human needs water requirements were met and adequate mechanisms were in place to allow transparent decision-making (no mean feat!).
- Maintaining current and adequate information and data. This work supported our understanding of the Murray-Darling Basin, national water issues and the implications of any decisions or changes to water policy. I was involved in analysing and disseminating information such as that relating to the CSIRO Sustainable Yields Project, ABARE studies, Water Sharing Plans, environmental reports and water availability data.
- In order to improve my knowledge and share Departmental perspectives, I attended the National Water Planners Forum at the Gold Coast in Queensland. Here I was permitted to brainstorm and network (over delicious morning teas) with some of the leading hydrologists and water policy makers in Australia.
Second Placement
Collections Development Section / Arts and Culture Division
- Draft a policy for the repatriation of indigenous human remains held in Australian Government funded collecting institutions back to their respective countries of origin.
- Respond to issues relating to Australian Government collections agencies such as the Australian National Museum and Australian National Maritime Museum.
Third Placement
Norfolk Island National Park and Botanic Garden / Protected Areas Policy and Programs Branch / Parks Australia
- Conduct a review of interpretation in the NI National Park and Botanic Garden.
- Consult leading community figures on topics of interest related to the review.
- Observe revegetation and pest management in progress on Phillip Island.
- Assist to draft the park and gardens (winning!) nomination for the NI Tourism Awards.
'the best thing about working for us ... is the environment'