Senior Advisor, First Nations Engagement

• Full-Time, 3-year contract from start date
• VPS Grade 5.1 ($113,022 - $124,884, plus superannuation)
• Hybrid working arrangements available
• One direct report (Aboriginal Engagement Officer)
Job Details
Careers Logo
Department: Victorian Electoral Commission
Work Type: Fixed term - full time
Job Function: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Classification: VPSG5.1
Work Location: Melbourne - CBD
Reference: VG/1915248
Closing Date: 26-Apr-2026
Salary Range: $113,022 - $124,884
Job Duration: N/A
Attachments: 533 - Senior Advisor, First Nations Engagement - Position Description.pdf (PDF, 231KB)
Position Description

Contact: John Cavanough
john.cavanough@vec.vic.gov.au

Position Details

We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities and culturally and linguistically diverse people to apply.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our workplaces with the people we employ, and at the ballot box with the people we serve. We aim to create a workplace that is inclusive, equitable, and safe for all.

Why join us

At the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) we are not just about elections, we are about enabling all Victorians to actively participate in their democracy.  The VEC conducts state and local council elections and is responsible for promoting public awareness and understanding of electoral issues in the Victorian community. Our goal is to be change ready and responsive to legislative changes and community expectations in a dynamic and complex operating environment. 

We provide a values driven workplace culture with a passion for excellence and innovation in the services we provide. We offer a supportive environment that encourages professional development and provide opportunities to broaden your experience though internal working groups and committees across VEC branches. 

Apply now to make a meaningful contribution to the democratic process. 

What you will be doing

Reporting directly to the Manager, Engagement, this role will be responsible for:

  • Leading the VEC's First Nations engagement and provide subject matter expertise to other work areas providing authoritative advice to senior leadership.
  • Building and sustain trusted relationships with First Nations communities, organisations, Traditional Owner groups, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, peak bodies and relevant government stakeholders.
  • Leading co-design and consultation processors with First Nations stakeholders.
  • Coordinating the Aboriginal Advisory Group.

What you will bring to the role

  • Demonstrated and broad knowledge of issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the ability to engage in ways that are cultural safe and appropriate.
  • Significant experience designing and delivering engagement, education, outreach, or participation programs with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
  • Highly developed writing, planning, leadership, stakeholder engagement, and relationship management skills.
  • Lived experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and community, cultural knowledge, and community acceptance will be highly regarded.
  • Commitment to the VEC's core values.

How to apply

All applicants must submit:

  • a current CV and
  • a separate document with responses to these four listed Key Selection Criteria (KSC): 6.1, 6.4, 6.5, 6.9 as listed in the position description.

Applications should be lodged online via the Apply Now button. The VEC can only accept applications lodged via Victorian Government Careers website.

Applications close at 11:59pm on 26 April 2026.

We understand that candidates may need adjustments in the recruitment process and/or workplace. For any questions or request for accommodations, please e-mail PeopleMailbox@vec.vic.gov.au

Successful applicants will be required to satisfy character clearance requirements, including but not limited to Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) and working with children check.

In accordance with Section 17A of the Electoral Act 2002, the VEC may ask applicants to disclose specific political activities that could compromise the perceived independence of the organisation. Learn more about disclosing political activities.

VEC contact details

For further information please contact John Cavanough, john.cavanough@vec.vic.gov.au.

 


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