Committee members are appointed by the State Minister for the Environment, following endorsement by Cabinet, and are selected for their individual expertise in areas relevant to World Heritage management, including science, conservation, tourism, Indigenous knowledge, and community engagement. Members do not represent specific organisations but contribute in their own right to the Committee’s work.

For Traditional Owner Representative positions, candidates are nominated by the respective Aboriginal Corporation to ensure cultural authority and connection to Country. Appointed individuals participate as independent members rather than organisational delegates.

From 2026, the Shark Bay World Heritage Advisory Committee will comprise the following positions:

• Chairperson (1)
• Community Interest Representatives (4)
• Science/Technical Representatives (4)
• Indigenous Representatives (2) – one each from the Nanda and Malgana Traditional Owner groups.

Members are appointed for a term of three years. All members are selected for their individual expertise and commitment to the protection and promotion of Shark Bay’s World Heritage values.

1. Standard selection criteria for all committee members applicants

• Familiarity with, and demonstrated interest in, Shark Bay World Heritage property.
• Familiarity with Australia's obligations under the World Heritage Convention and the implementation of its operational guidelines.

2. Additional selection criterion for scientific community representatives

• Qualifications, experience, and expertise in research disciplines relevant to the Shark Bay World Heritage Property. This includes fields such as botany, zoology, ecology, marine science, and geomorphology or another relevant field.
• Strong understanding of ecological processes, conservation science, or heritage management.
• We encourage applications from diverse scientific disciplines and career stages. While marine expertise remains valued, this round prioritises terrestrial knowledge.

3. Additional selection criterion for community interest representatives

• Well-established connections to the Shark Bay World Heritage Area and active involvement in local initiatives, local community groups, or local governance.
• Background in fishing, local government, tourism, or park management is considered valuable, as is the ability to represent local perspectives and contribute to local community engagement in World Heritage matters.
• Experience in planning, tourism, recreation, conservation, business/commercial, Indigenous knowledge, heritage, local area or broader community engagement.

4. Additional selection criterion for two Traditional Owner representatives

• Applicants must be nominated by their respective Prescribed Body Corporate—Nanda and Malgana—and demonstrate cultural knowledge, leadership, and experience in Aboriginal land or sea management.
• Please contact your Aboriginal Corporation to discuss.

• Providing advice to the Minister for the Environment, DBCA, and DCCEEW on the identification, protection, conservation, presentation, and transmission of the Outstanding Universal Value of the Shark Bay World Heritage Property.
• Supporting research and monitoring by advising on research priorities that enhance understanding and conservation of the Shark Bay World Heritage Property’s natural and cultural values, in alignment with relevant Western Australian and Commonwealth frameworks.
• Respecting Traditional Owner culture, rights, and aspirations for the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
• Conducting Shark Bay World Heritage Advisory Committee business consistent with the Terms of Reference and Code of Conduct, and in accordance with the Western Australian Government’s policies and guidelines for boards and committees, including standards for ethics, conduct, and decision-making.
• Engaging respectfully, ethically and collaboratively with stakeholders including government agencies, researchers, community groups, and industry representatives to ensure inclusive and informed management of the World Heritage Property.

• Chairing meetings in accordance with formal meeting protocols and the Committee’s Terms of Reference.
• Speaking on behalf of the Committee in communications with DBCA and relevant government bodies.
• Representing the Committee on the Australian World Heritage Advisory Committee and other national forums as appropriate.
• Supporting inclusive participation by encouraging contributions from all members, ensuring that diverse perspectives—including scientific, community, and Traditional Owner viewpoints—are considered in the Committee’s advice.
• Upholding the Committee’s integrity by ensuring that recommendations are evidence-based, reflect the Outstanding Universal Value of the Shark Bay World Heritage Property, and contribute to its long-term protection and presentation.

Remuneration for Shark Bay World Heritage Advisory Committee members is set by the WA Public Sector Commission and outlined in the Premier’s Circular: Premier’s Policy Circular.

Members are not renumerated for work conducted out of session.

Costs associated with travel, accommodation, and meals are included for eligible members attending face-to-face meetings.

Renumeration for sitting fees may not apply if a member is:

• A full-time employee of local, State or Commonwealth government
• A current Member of Parliament
• A retired judicial officer
• A non-academic staff member of a public university.

Eligible members may include:

• Part-time public servants (working in their own time)
• University academics (primarily teaching staff)
• Elected local government councillors
• Volunteers or those on leave without pay.

• Read the Shark Bay World Heritage Advisory Committee Code of Conduct
• Complete the application form
• Provide a covering letter addressing the selection criteria (maximum of two pages)
• Provide a current resume (maximum of four pages – including two referees).

The closing date for expressions of interest is 11:59 pm 31 March 2026

There are two options to submit your expression of interest:

1. Online: Complete and submit the application form, available below
2. In person: Application form available from DBCA Gascoyne District Office, 61 Knight Terrace Denham.

If you have questions about the application process, please email sbwhac@dbca.wa.gov.au.