The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is looking to fill the role of National Lead (EL1), 2026 Census Inclusive Strategy (Affirmative Measure – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples) in the Census and Population Division.

This role is only open to people that identify and are recognised as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, under the Affirmative Measure Guideline. This is your opportunity to to increase the participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the 2026 Census and ensure they have a safe and positive Census completion experience.

This position is at the Executive Level 1 classification level and is available till November 2026.

As a National Lead you will:

• build strong relationships with Census colleagues, ABS partners and external stakeholders to recruit and provide a positive and safe experience for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in urban and regional areas in the 2026 Census
• lead the implementation of the 2026 Census Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in urban and regional areas Inclusive Strategy in partnership with key Census and ABS stakeholders
• work closely with stakeholders to provide a positive Census experience, including stakeholder engagement and Inclusive Strategies and Engagement field workforce has appropriate cultural skills and knowledge
• work with stakeholders to promote Census job, participation and completion opportunities, including:
• promoting and recruiting Temporary office-based operations roles,
• promoting and recruiting Inclusive Strategies and Engagement temporary field jobs across Australia
• building trust and understanding of the Census with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities in urban and regional areas
• help build the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the workforce by helping candidates to complete the recruitment process.

What we are looking for (selection criteria)

We are looking for people who are keen to widen their skill set, but have most or all the following:

• a strong understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• a strong ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people
• ability to build strong, culturally safe working relationships with diverse stakeholders
• experience in leading teams and developing people
• strong ability to manage competing priorities and deliver in an operational environment
• strong written and verbal communication that adjusts to audiences
• demonstrated experience in supporting, engaging, consulting and negotiating with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities or stakeholders is highly regarded. This includes developing and maintaining stakeholder and supporter networks to understand and address the needs and issues of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. National-level experienced desired but not necessary.

To apply

To apply, complete an online application form on the ABS e-recruitment system.

You will need to upload your current resume, provide referee details, and provide a statement of claims to the following:

Referring to the qualities, skills and experiences listed above, please provide detail on how you meet the requirements of the role. Please limit your response to 500 words.

Please read the attached Applicant Information Kit for more information about the business area and the recruitment process.

Applications close at 11:30 p.m. AEST on Sunday 29 June 2025.