This position will lead the Aboriginal Water Unit (AWU) to deliver government commitments to recognise and manage for Aboriginal values of water. This includes delivery of the Aboriginal Water Program, which works to better include Aboriginal people in the way water is managed in Victoria and to reconnect communities to water for cultural, economic, customary and spiritual purposes, and acting as a key point of contact within the Water and Catchments Group (WCG) for Traditional Owners to progress their self-determined water priorities. As part of this, the position will build effective relationships across the Department, across the water sector and other government agencies and with Traditional Owner groups and peak Aboriginal bodies.

This is designated position under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Victorian Aboriginal cultures and societies including Traditional Owner groups. 
• Demonstrated experience in working effectively with diverse Traditional Owner groups and Aboriginal Victorians and ability to strengthen and build relationships and partnerships.
• Understanding, knowledge and experience of Aboriginal water issues is highly desirable.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

For further information please refer to the attached position description.

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday, 22 January 2025.  

Other relevant information:

For this particular vacancy, priority consideration applies to Victorian Public Service (VPS) and select employees of the Victorian Public Sector who apply through the Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) jobs board platform.

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.  

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

Thisposition is designated for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Confirmation of Aboriginality will be required for appointment to this position. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

 We recognise the significant responsibility to enable self-determination, be accountable to Traditional Owners and provide opportunities to strengthen First Peoples' connection to Country. We are committed to creating a culturally safe environment, where individuals feel safe, valued, and able to celebrate their culture, and spiritual and belief systems.

For general information about Aboriginal Employment at DEECA, please contact self.determination@delwp.vic.gov.au.

We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.