We aim to connect and empower communities, conserve WA's unique flora and celebrate local identity. Immerse yourself in world-recognised botanic gardens, parklands and urban bushlands.
THIS IS A PERMANENT FULL-TIME POSITION
APPLICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION CLOSE AT
MIDDAY ON TUESDAY, 3 FEBRUARY 2026
Job Description
The Director, Western Australian Botanic Garden actively leads and champions the curation and development of high-quality horticultural displays and plant collections for conservation, while promoting plant breeding and technical horticulture to maintain and enhance Kings Park and Botanic Garden’s global reputation; contributes to the development and implementation of strategic direction and planning for the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority (BGPA).
At BGPA, we have adopted Leadership Expectations which provides a common understanding of the mindsets and expected behaviours required of all our employees and the public sector. In this role, you will be a Multiple Area Leader to help drive positive change.
Selection Criteria
The following selection criteria is provided for information purposes only. In applying for this position, applicants are not required to prepare responses to the selection criteria. Please refer to the ‘How to Apply’ section of this advertisement.
- Demonstrated extensive understanding and application of the value and importance of ex situ collections management for conservation outcomes. This may include experience in the effective management of botanic gardens, public landscapes and/or high-quality horticultural displays, landscape planning and development.
- Demonstrated senior leadership and management experience including ability to motivate staff and develop effective teams, analytical and problem-solving skills, financial management, contract and project management skills.
- Extensive knowledge of the Western Australian flora, its diversity, cultivation, habitat origins and display potential.
- Advanced technical knowledge of horticultural principles and their application to amenity and nursery horticulture, including bio-security risk management and the ability to apply current scientific research to horticultural practice.
- Qualifications in applied science degree, horticulture or a related discipline (Highly Desirable).
- Ongoing willingness and ability to participate in fire management activities that contribute to bushfire suppression and prescribed burning operations commensurate with capability, capacity, training and level of experience (Desirable).
About Us
We are a statutory authority of the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), one of Western Australia's largest state government agencies, providing exciting and challenging career opportunities in biodiversity conservation and park and natural resource management. We employ people with world-class scientific, policy, land and marine management, visitor services, research and educational skills.
For more information on what we do, our recruitment process, and why working at the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) is an attractive proposition, please visit our website.
Benefits of working with us
In addition to the attractive salary and opportunities to contribute to biodiversity and environmental conservation initiatives, the department offers incentives including:
- Flexible working arrangements.
- 12% superannuation, full employer contribution and salary packaging options.
- 4 weeks annual leave with 17.5% loading paid as additional pay every December.
- 3 days additional public sector holidays each year.
- Cultural leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
- Access to study, bereavement, foster caring and parental leave.
- A confidential employee assistant program (EAP) for you and your family, including psychology and counselling services.
- Well-established learning and development programs.
How to apply:
All applications are to be submitted online. Select 'Apply for job', located at either the top or the bottom of the screen, and follow the instructions; you will need to provide a:
- a covering letter outlining your skills and experience relevant to the position.
- current CV, including the details of two referees with one being a recent or current manager/supervisor.
For further job-related information: contact Morgan Marsh, Executive Director BGPA on 0438 526 127 or for further information about the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, visit https://www.bgpa.wa.gov.au/.
We have a detailed Job Application Kit to provide information about us, the values of the department and practical guidance on the process for you. Please ensure you have saved your documents in MS Word (.docx files only) or PDF format and have allowed plenty of time to submit your application, as late, emailed and proforma applications will not be accepted.
Prior to commencement, the successful applicant will need to possess or obtain:
- A current (issue date not older than 6 months) and satisfactory National Police Check.
For the full role description, detailed responsibilities and a full list of selection criteria, please refer to the Job Description link below. The documents linked to this advertisement are available in alternative formats upon request.
Eligibility: To be eligible for permanent appointment, it is essential to have Australian citizenship, New Zealand citizenship or Australian permanent residency status. Please note visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
A search for additional applicants may be conducted for this position where necessary to provide a more diverse and/or competitive field.
Substantive Equality Statement
Your interest in employment opportunities at BGPA is welcomed. BGPA actively seeks to include, welcome and value unique contributions of all people in our workplace. We encourage all people, including those with disability, Aboriginal Australians, young people and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply for vacant positions. People with disability will be provided with reasonable adjustments in our recruitment processes and in the workplace.
Applicants with a disability who require adjustments in the recruitment process, including an alternative to applying online, can contact the Senior Recruitment Officer on (08) 9219 9879 or recruitment@dbca.wa.gov.au. Do not send applications to this email; they will not be accepted.
If you are an Aboriginal person who would like assistance with your application, please contact Jobs and Skills WA on 13 64 64.
Similar appointments may be made from this process within a 12-month period to positions that may be permanent or contract, including contract appointments with the possibility of subsequent permanency.
