Do you have a passion for advancing Self Determination for Aboriginal Victorians? DEECA is looking for an experienced relationship manager to foster strong networks and relationships between State Government and Aboriginal Victorians, including Traditional Owner organisations.

The Program Manager, Aboriginal Partnerships will ensure cultural safety is embedded and visible in the way DEECA works at all sites and levels across the region. You will partner with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Victorians to consistently deliver on what we say we will do, as well as supporting a culturally safe workplace for Aboriginal staff and visitors.

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

Some of the duties will include the following

• Lead and manage strong networks and relationships across regional and local government agencies, business and community organisations and identify approaches to priority issues that integrate improved outcomes for Aboriginal people in Victoria.
• Lead a team to develop and coordinate delivery, monitoring and reporting of the regional implementation of Pupangarli Marnmarnepu, DEECA's Aboriginal Self Determination Reform Strategy in the Region including delivery of Regional Caring for Country Partnership forums and ensure delivery of agreed actions from these forums.
• Lead provision of advice and support to DEECA staff and delivery partners on best practice engagement with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people in the region, including provision of cultural awareness and cultural safety training to regional staff.
• Lead advancement of Aboriginal employment and procurement outcomes within the region

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of Aboriginal culture, society and land and resource management issues in Victoria and understanding of networks within Victorian Aboriginal communities and natural resource management agencies.
• Demonstrated experience in working effectively with diverse Traditional Owner groups and Aboriginal Victorians and ability to strengthen maintain and build relationships and partnerships.

This is a fixed term position available until 27 February 2026 (Flexible). The work location for this position is Knoxfield 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 Monday, 21 April 2025. 

Other relevant information:

If you are current Victorian Public Service (VPS) employee, employed on an ongoing, fixed term or casual basis you are eligible to apply for this role. People on labour hire contracts, such as agency staff and contractors, are not eligible to applyPreferred 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

DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. 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.

This position is classified as an “identified position” aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People. The position requires an in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an ability to communicate with Aboriginal communities. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged 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.