Our client is seeking an External Relations Advisor – Approvals plays a pivotal role in navigating complex regulatory landscapes to enable successful project delivery. This position is responsible for leading strategic engagement with Commonwealth and State Government agencies and coordinating multi-disciplinary inputs to secure statutory approvals across all phases of the project lifecycle.

The Advisor will be supporting the progress of major strategic projects and serve as a key interface between internal teams and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment, compliance, and transparency throughout the approvals process.

KEY DUTIES:

• Lead and coordinate engagement across Commonwealth and State Government agencies (e.g. Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts, Border Force, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Australian Federal Police) to support statutory approval pathways.
• Support end-to-end approvals processes, ensuring regulatory compliance across project phases including design, delivery, and pre-operational review.
• Provide expert advice on approvals schedules, risks, and opportunities to inform strategic project planning.
• Align internal priorities and ensure stakeholders understand external approval requirements and obligations.
• Coordinate technical inputs across legal, consultant, and internal teams to support timely approvals.
• Develop and enhance reporting tools, systems, and processes to ensure visibility over approvals progress.
• Maintain relationships with government officials and regulatory bodies at federal, state, and local levels.
• Advocate for project outcomes and facilitate stakeholder alignment through strategic communications and regulatory guidance.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Strong understanding of government approvals frameworks for major infrastructure/port projects, including maritime obligations.
• Demonstrated experience navigating federal and state approvals systems and working closely with regulatory bodies.
• Background in external or government relations with a compliance or policy focus.
• Proven project management and coordination skills across complex stakeholder groups.
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience delivering regulatory strategy and maintaining continuity across large-scale infrastructure projects.

If this is you, APPLY NOW!

Maxima is committed to building inclusive and diverse workforces that value all backgrounds and experiences. We welcome applications from First Nations Peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people of all gender identities, and people living with disability.

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