An exciting and unique opportunity exists for a talented and passionate individual to join the Community Relations & Heritage Branch in the First Peoples-State Relations Group as Heritage Policy Officer at the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

First Peoples-State Relations group supports an extensive program of priority work with First Peoples, applying a strong understanding of self-determination to our work practices and in providing clear and robust advice to the Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, Premier, Cabinet and senior executives within the Group.

Heritage Services provides business and operational support underpinning the work of FPSR. Key responsibilities include administering the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, which includes protecting and managing Aboriginal cultural heritage, maintaining a register of Aboriginal places and objects, working collaboratively with Registered Aboriginal Parties, and fulfilling the Secretary's role in administering Cultural Heritage Permits and Cultural Heritage Management Plans.

The Heritage Policy Officer will contribute to developing, shaping and implementing strategic policy to support the operation of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, provide authoritative advice on policy implementation, and liaise with key stakeholders on a range of Aboriginal cultural heritage management issues.

FPSR recognises the invaluable contribution of existing Aboriginal staff and is committed to promoting Aboriginal leadership as reflected in the Group's executive team. This role will contribute to the ground-breaking work of the Group in the areas of truth, treaty, self-determination and cultural rights.

This is a unique opportunity to work in new and innovative ways that recognise First Peoples as the self-determining drivers of Aboriginal affairs in Victoria. This is a designated position under section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply for this position.

About You

As our ideal candidate, you will have:

• Sound analytical, conceptual and problem-solving skills with sound judgment and capacity to make decisions and recommendations where diverse interests need to be considered.
• A proven ability to develop strong, productive partnerships and engage key stakeholders.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to express opinions, information and key points clearly and concisely via effective verbal and written communication.
• Demonstrated willingness to be flexible and adaptable to changing priorities with the ability to meet deadlines while working in pressured situations.
• Strong project management and ability to contribute positively to a team environment.

Desirable requirements

• A sound knowledge and understanding of the objectives of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, as well as a demonstrated ability to communicate with and understand the specific needs of stakeholders - particularly Victorian Traditional Owners - in Victoria's Aboriginal cultural heritage management system.

This is a designated position under section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply for this position.

The closing date for this position is ??? 2025.

How to apply

Apply before the advertised closing date. All applications should include:

• a resume; and
• a cover letter which addresses the key selection criteria (within three pages).

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Working with us, you can make a difference not just in your career, but in the community where you work and live.

Other relevant information

The department is committed to providing and maintaining a working environment which is safe and without risk to the health of its employees and clients and consistent with the department's obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OH&S Act), to support this DPC has a COVID-19 Vaccination policy which strongly recommends all DPC employees be fully vaccinated.

Preferred candidates will be required to complete a Pre-employment Declaration and Consent form. Employment of successful candidates will be subject to a National Police Check. DPC actively promotes diversity, inclusion and an equal opportunity workplace.

We welcome applicants from all diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people with disabilities. All roles at DPC can be worked flexibly, however it may differ from role to role.