Aboriginal Community Engagement & Cultural Lead

Newcastle, Tamworth & Surrounding NSW | Identified Role – Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants only
Full-Time, Ongoing | Flexible Mix of Community, Home & Office Work

Why This Role Matters

Irena Care is expanding into Northern and Central NSW to meet the need for culturally safe, community-led NDIS services. We're seeking a respected Aboriginal leader to walk alongside our team and communities—ensuring all services reflect culture, dignity, and local priorities.

This is your opportunity to lead meaningful change—walking with community, not ahead of them.

Base Yourself in Newcastle or Tamworth

You'll cover hospital discharges and community support across:

John Hunter, Maitland & Tamworth Hospitals

Monthly outreach to Taree, Upper Hunter & rural towns

Why Join Irena Care?

Lead First Nations–driven NDIS services in your region

We back your voice, leadership, and lived experience

Enjoy flexibility, cultural leave & a team that walks with you

Your Role

As Cultural Lead, you will:

Build respectful partnerships with Elders, ACCHOs, AMSs, schools, and community groups

Help families and participants navigate the NDIS with yarning circles and one-on-one support

Provide cultural mentoring to staff and leadership

Represent Irena Care at interagency, PHN, hospital and LAC forums

Embed cultural safety into practice, service design and staff training

About You

This is an Identified Role under Section 50(d) of the Equal Opportunity Act.
You are recognised for your connection to Country, your community voice, and commitment to cultural strength.

You bring:

Strong relationships in local Nations around Newcastle, Tamworth, Taree and Upper Hunter

Community networks through local AMSs, health services, schools, councils or LACs

Experience in health, disability, youth work or human services

Confidence liaising with Elders, families and sector stakeholders

NSW Driver’s Licence + ability to travel regionally

(Or willingness to obtain): Police Check, WWCC & NDIS Worker Screening

What We Offer

Competitive salary + salary packaging

Travel allowance + phone (BYO laptop)

5 weeks leave incl. paid NAIDOC & cultural ceremony leave

PD budget + structured mentoring support

Flexible working: home + community + office

An opportunity to shape truly community-led NDIS supports

How to Apply

Email: [email protected]
Please include:

Your CV

A brief cover letter (max 2 pages) covering:

Your community connections

Relevant experience

Your vision for improving outcomes for community in your region

Applications close: Friday, 1 August 2025

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a face-to-face or Teams interview.

Our Commitment

We strongly encourage applications from First Nations people of all genders, identities, and lived experience of disability.

Irena Care – Walking with community to deliver culturally safe, participant-driven NDIS supports.