Lead with Purpose | Protect Sea Country | Empower Community

This is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Identified Position, classified under ‘special measures’ of section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

About Bunurong Land Council

BLCAC is the Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) representing the Bunurong people of the South-Eastern Kulin Nation. We advocate for cultural heritage, land management, and community empowerment. Our work spans across Greater Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and the Bass Coast, ensuring the voices and traditions of our ancestors continue to be recognised and respected.

About the Role

The Sea Country Team Leader will lead the development and delivery of the Bunurong Sea Country Program, guiding a team of Sea Country Rangers to implement community-driven initiatives focused on the restoration and protection of Bunurong Sea Country. This includes planning and supervising on-Country works, mentoring junior Rangers, and representing Bunurong aspirations across marine conservation and regulatory sectors. The role may also support broader Balit Biik team activities when required.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and mentor a small team of Sea Country Rangers on Bunurong Country.

Plan and oversee marine and coastal projects (e.g. revegetation, pest control, species monitoring).

Build meaningful relationships with community, industry, and government stakeholders.

Represent Bunurong rights and aspirations in forums such as offshore wind, fisheries, and conservation.

Ensure team safety, wellbeing, and compliance with all policies and OH&S standards.

Key Accountabilities

On-Country Management – Deliver Sea Country restoration projects effectively and safely.

Stakeholder Engagement – Advocate for Bunurong values and build strong partnerships.

Financial Oversight – Deliver projects within budget and maintain clear reporting.

Compliance – Meet all organisational, legal and ethical standards.

Reporting – Collect and report data to track outcomes and inform planning.

Policy Adherence – Uphold BLCAC’s policies and model best practice.

Team Leadership – Inspire and develop your team with culturally strong, supportive leadership.

What You Bring

Qualifications and Experience

Experience working with Aboriginal communities or Traditional Owner organisations.

Knowledge of Bunurong sea country, ecosystems, and cultural practices.

Strong skills in field-based environmental work, including marine restoration and monitoring.

Relevant qualifications in Environmental Science, Land/Sea Management, or equivalent experience.

Current VIC Driver’s Licence, Marine Licence, WWCC and National Police Check.

Desirable: GIS or mapping experience, 4WD and marine vessel operation.

Personal Qualities and Attributes

Aboriginality or Bunurong heritage (highly desirable).

Passionate about caring for Country and upholding community aspirations.

Strong communicator, relationship-builder, and cultural ambassador.

Confident leader, with mentoring, planning and problem-solving skills.

Organised, reliable, and grounded in cultural safety and respect.