Position Title

Project Officer – Conservation Estate

POSITION CLASSIFICATION

Department/Entity

Wajarri Yamaji Aboriginal Corporation

Location: Geraldton, WA

Closing: Monday 14 April 2025 - 5.00pm

ORGANISATIONAL VALUES

Improving Life: We are committed to improving the lives and social wellbeing of our People.

Innovation: We will pursue innovative concepts and ideas through diligent research and development to prosper our People.

Partnerships: We will seek out entrepreneurial opportunities and joint ventures to grow our wealth.

Integrity: We will continuously act with professionalism and transparency in all of our business dealings and relationships ensuring due diligence in all of our considerations.

Honouring Culture: We value our people, our families, our community, our culture and our history.

POSITION PURPOSE

This position is one of two responsible for assisting Wajarri Yamaji Aboriginal Corporation (WYAC) meet our joint management obligations in respect to either the Northern or Southern Conservations Estates, as per the Indigenous Land Use Agreement between WYAC and the State of Western Australia registered with the National Native Title Tribunal on 14th April 2024. Under the ILUA, WYAC has joint management of the Northern and Southern Conservation Estates, with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).

This document describes the main responsibilities of the position and is not described to be prescriptive. It is expected that other duties in addition to those described in this document will be undertaken from time to time.

All staff are expected to demonstrate behaviours which align with WYAC’s core values, code of conduct and employment opportunity principles.

OUR ORGANISATION

The Wajarri Yamaji People achieved a successful Native Title Determination on 29 July 2021 and is one of the largest by land area at approximately 85,000 square kilometres. The Wajarri Yamaji People comprising of 4 distinct land groups – Minangu, Burringurrah-Milly Milly, Byro & Ngoonooru created WYAC as their Registered Native Title Body Corporate (RNTBC) as part of the determination process.

As the RNTBC WYAC on behalf of the Wajarri Yamaji People holds the native title, resultant agreements and undertakes negotiations for proposed activity on Wajarri Yamaji Country. In collaboration with the Wajarri Yamaji People’s Trust, Winja Wajarri Barna Limited (‘WWBL’), WYAC delivers programs which lead to positive social, economic, educational and cultural outcomes for our members.

IMPACT

The role will be responsible for the management of the Conservation Estate(s) under the Joint Management Agreement. This includes carrying out tasks aligned with the decisions and directives of the Joint Management Body (JMB), which is responsible for critical decision-making related to the management and preservation of the Conservation Estate(s).

In performing this role, the incumbent is expected to contribute to an inclusive, effective, and safe working environment by taking responsibility for their decisions, behaviours, and the consequences that arise from them. When building relationships with staff, as well as internal and external parties, the incumbent is expected to drive commitment and model behaviours that align with the organization’s purpose, values, and objectives.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Joint Management & Aboriginal Heritage

· Lead liaison between the relevant Land Committee(s) and the Joint Management Board (JMB).

· Assist with policy development for the management of conservation estate(s).

· Provide secretariat support as needed.

· Collaborate with DBCA staff to ensure effective supervision of the Wajarri Yamaji Conservation Estate(s).

· Actively coordinate on-country works with internal and DBCA stakeholders as directed by the JMB.

· Prepare correspondence, reports, and assist with submissions.

· Maintain accurate records and update activity databases as required.

Stakeholder Engagement & Liaison

· In consultation with the JMB, relevant Land Committee(s), and WYAC Board, develop programs for engaging the Wajarri Yamaji People.

· Facilitate on-country visits, workshops, and joint management activities to support the Joint Management Agreement with the JMB.

· Coordinate and facilitate meetings as directed by the JMB.

· Conduct consultation with the broader traditional owner community. Foster and maintain effective relationships with all stakeholders.

Workforce Development

· Participate in on-the-job training as required.

· Attend relevant conferences, meetings, seminars, workshops, or similar events to enhance professional development.

Work Health and Safety

· Promote a positive, inclusive workplace culture free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination.

· Ensure the safety, health, and welfare of all staff and service users, in compliance with relevant legislation and policies.

· Intervene promptly when unsafe work practices are identified.

· Report notifiable incidents and/or WHS concerns in a timely manner.

Aboriginal Ways of Working

· Recognise and support the Wajarri Group as the lead organisation in strengthening Wajarri Yamaji culture.

· Ensure Aboriginal clients, staff, communities, and statutory bodies are supported in ways that protect and respect culture.

SELECTION PROFILE

Essential

1. Previous Experience in Similar Roles: Proven experience in conservation, land management, and community engagement.

2. Strong Interpersonal & Communication Skills: Effective in building relationships and communicating across diverse platforms.

3. Effective Time Management: Skilled in prioritising tasks and managing competing demands to meet deadlines.

4. Conservation & Land Management Knowledge: Expertise in cultural heritage, conservation reserves, and recreational site management.

5. Travel Flexibility: Able to travel and stay overnight in remote locations as required.

6. Proficient in Technology: Experienced with MS Teams, MS Office, Zoom, social media, and client management systems.

7. Presentation Skills: Highly confident in delivering engaging presentations to diverse audiences, clearly articulating ideas, opportunities, and strategies tailored to the target group.

8. Commitment to Occupational Health & Safety: Thorough understanding and commitment to maintaining workplace safety standards and promoting a healthy working environment.

Education/Qualifications:

Essential

1. Current Police Check (or ability to obtain)

2. Current WA ‘C’ class licence

Desirable

1. Qualifications in Project Management: Natural Resource or Community Development.

2. Experience with Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations: Background in working within Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations, respecting their values and objectives.

3. Wajarri Yamaji Heritage & Cultural Awareness: Proud Wajarri Yamaji person with a deep understanding of local issues and community engagement.

For enquires please contact Wajarri Yamaji Aboriginal Corporation - HR Manager Louisa 08 99 973 444 or please apply through SEEK.

Closing: Monday 14 April 2025 - 5.00pm