Express your interest to work on Country as a Project Firefighter in a Designated Aboriginal position.

Are you wanting to work and learn on Country?

We have challenging and rewarding opportunity for mob that identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander to join our operational teams. Each year we employ field based seasonal Project Firefighters to assist with planned burning and the prevention and suppression of bushfires in parks and forests. Our department values the knowledge, contribution and lived experience that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders make on caring for country. We support our aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to connect through regional networks and contribute, learn and to achieve as part of our workforce.

Our Project Firefighter positions would suit people who:

• have a high level of fitness
• are sound decision makers
• are community minded and looking for a unique challenge.

The location and duration of positions will depend on the role/roles available at the time taking into account the location of your primary residence and/or willingness to relocate. Positions are seasonal generally commencing from November for a minimum period of 22 weeks.

Salaries from 1 August 2023 commence from $56,044 to $65,221 + superannuation subject to your skills and experience.

You don't need any previous work experience to submit an expression of interest, training will be provided in various skills including:

• forest fire management activities
• 4WD course
• chainsaw

You will need to have:

• confirmation of Aboriginality
• a current manual Drivers Licence for appointment (Conditions A, I & V not acceptable for employment)
• meeting “Category B-Firefighter Arduous” medical and fitness
• be 18 years or older as of 1 October 2023
• a satisfactory National Police Check
• a Declaration and Consent form

How to express your interest:

Please submit a brief cover letter outlining your interest, skills and relevant experience and an up-to-date resume (cover letter 1 page, resume 2 pages maximum). For a confidential yarn, please call Maria Fletcher-Dugan, our Senior Adviser, Aboriginal Workforce on 0408 725 257 or email BFSG.Workforce@delwp.vic.gov.au.

Maria or one of our hiring team will be in touch to assist and support you during the expression of interest process and work through the mandatory and pre-employment screening requirements with you in readiness for appointment to a Project Firefighter position.

To ensure you are considered for the upcoming fire season express your interest as soon as possible.

For further information about the position, please refer to the attached PD.

Other relevant information:

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

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

These positions are 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 these positions. 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.