First Nations Strategic Policy Lead

Melbourne, VIC
$118,141-132,292 per year
Permanent
Full-time

11 days ago

Vacancy DetailsPosition:Organisation Unit:Location:Tenure:Closing:Synopsis:

$118,141 - $132,292 plus 12% Superannuation
Permanent Full-Time opportunity
Employee Discounts Programme

About the roleThe First Nations Strategic Policy Lead sits within the Aboriginal Melbourne branch of the Business, Economy and Activation Division, and offers an exciting opportunity to champion self-determination and elevate the aspirations of First Nations peoples through strategic policy work.This role plays a key part in delivering impactful outcomes for our community and supporting the strategic goals of the City of Melbourne.You’ll join a team that leads the relationship with Traditional Owners, drives the implementation of the Reconciliation Action Plan, and works at the forefront of Aboriginal policy, strategy, and community empowerment. You will have the opportunity to lead the development of a landmark First Nations Strategy and contribute to truth-telling, cultural safety, and shared prosperity for First Nations communities.A little more about the role

Lead the development and implementation of First Nations Strategy in partnership with the First Nations Committee
Conduct comprehensive policy analysis and deliver informed recommendations that drive cultural and strategic transformation
Foster partnerships with Traditional Owners, ACCOs, and other community organisations
Prepare high-quality reports, submissions, and policy briefings that influence decisions at all levels

Why join Team Melbourne?Located on the traditional lands of the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation, Melbourne is globally recognised as one of the most liveable, diverse, and dynamic cities.At the heart of it all is the City of Melbourne – a passionate, purpose-driven organisation where your work truly matters. As part of Team Melbourne, you’ll help deliver what’s most important to the people who live, work, study, visit and invest in our great city.We’re proud champions of diversity, committed to continuous improvement, and driven by a shared vision for a vibrant and sustainable future.This is more than just a role – it’s your chance to make a real impact, contribute to something bigger, and shape Melbourne’s future alongside a collaborative and forward-thinking team.About youYou are a strong community connector, passionate about embedding cultural understanding into policy and practice.You bring lived experience or strong connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, enabling you to work with authenticity, cultural integrity, and trust.What your experience might look like

Demonstrated understanding of Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, protocols, and history
Strong communication skills and experience preparing high-level policy advice
Ability to build trusted relationships with community and stakeholders
Strategic thinking and experience with co-design approaches
Proven capability in leading projects from concept to delivery

Benefits of working with us

Attractive remuneration & benefits: Excellent pay package with a range of exciting benefits. Flexible working, study assistance & other great corporate discounts.
Excellent leave entitlements: Enjoy up to 20 weeks of fully paid parental leave for primary carers, in addition to the government-funded parental leave, with no waiting period to access. Part-time equivalents are also available for added flexibility.
Career progression: Career development support and opportunities to learn new skills within a creative and exciting environment.
Work-life balance and hybrid working: We support flexible hours, alternative work arrangements (like ADOs), and hybrid work-from-home options.

How to applyWe'd love to hear how you can make an impact in this role! As part of your application, you will be required to:

Attach your updated resume
Include a cover letter (max one page) outlining your relevant experience and why you're a great fit for this role.

Submit your application no later than 11:45pm on Monday, 8 September 2025.A few important things to note – don’t miss out!

Applications must be submitted online. Unfortunately, we can’t accept applications via email, so please be sure to apply through the official job link provided.
Apply early! This role may close sooner than the listed closing date if we find the right candidate — so don’t wait to get your application in.
We are a child safe organisation. The City of Melbourne has a zero tolerance for child abuse. All employees undergo thorough safety screening, including a Police Check and, for most roles, a Working with Children Check.

Need more info?Refer to the position description below or contact Jason Eades – Director Aboriginal Melbourne, Jason.Eades@melbourne.vic.gov.au.Inclusion mattersWe strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from all cultural and linguistic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTIQA+ individuals, and people of all ages and faith backgrounds.We provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to support all applicants. If you require any adjustments, please let us know via the application prompts or inform our Careers team if you’re contacted for an interview.

City of Melbourne

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