• Employment type: Part-Time - 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE)
• Duration: Fixed term until 31 December 2027
• Remuneration: Level 9 $148,012 full time equivalent + 17% superannuation + leave loading
• Location: Flexible – work from either Kensington NSW, VIC or SA
• Benefits: Cultural Leave, Indigenous Employee Network, Flexible Working Arrangements

This is an identified position, and applicants must be an Aboriginal and /or Torres Strait Islander person. Evidencing Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status will be required.

Why Your Role Matters

The Culturally Nourishing Schooling (CNS) project is a practice- and research-informed initiative designed to enhance the engagement and educational outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. This collaborative effort—bringing together Australian universities, local communities, and schools—aims to implement a culturally grounded, strengths-based approach that drives whole-school transformation. The project also fosters enduring partnerships between schools and their surrounding communities.

The Culturally Nourishing Schooling (CNS) National Policy Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping education policy to improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across three states and at the Commonwealth level. This strategic position leads policy development, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to ensure Indigenous voices are central to national education reform.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Development and Advocacy

• Lead education policy initiatives across NSW, VIC, SA, and nationally
• Provide strategic advice to CNS to support Indigenous student success
• Engage with Commonwealth departments and agencies
• Monitor and respond to emerging policy opportunities

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Build relationships with Indigenous organisations and peak bodies
• Facilitate community input into policy processes
• Collaborate with families and local groups to inform policy
• Represent CNS in forums and working groups

Strategic Influence and Impact

• Apply strategic thinking to advance CNS objectives
• Participate in high-level discussions with government and Indigenous leaders
• Develop advocacy strategies aligned with CNS goals

Representation and Communication

• Represent CNS at conferences and policy forums
• Deliver presentations to diverse audiences
• Prepare policy submissions, briefings, and reports
• Build trust through professional stakeholder engagement

About You

This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identified position. Applicants must identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Confirmation of Aboriginality is required.

Experience and Knowledge

• Proven experience in policy development and advocacy
• Track record of influencing policy at state or national levels
• Understanding of Australian education systems
• Knowledge of Indigenous education issues

Skills and Capabilities

• Exceptional communication and presentation skills
• Strategic planning with demonstrated policy impact
• Strong stakeholder engagement abilities
• Capacity to manage priorities across jurisdictions

Personal Attributes

• Cultural competency and respect for Indigenous perspectives
• Professionalism and integrity
• Reliability and trustworthiness
• Commitment to improving Indigenous education outcomes

To view the full list of skills and experience and learn more about this position a copy of the Position Description can be found below the advert on the JOBS@UNSW website.

Benefits and Culture

UNSW offer a competitive salary and access to a plethora of UNSW-perks including:​

• 10 days paid cultural leave per year
• Indigenous Employee Network
• 17% Superannuation and leave loading
• Flexible working
• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period
• Access to lifelong learning and career development
• Progressive HR practices

More information on the great staff benefits and culture can be found here.

How to Apply

Submit your application online by Thursday 14th August before 11:30 pm. Please attach your CV and include a 1–2-page cover letter.

Get in Touch

Persa Tzakis

Talent Acquisition Team Leader and Executive Resourcer

[email protected]

For more information on how UNSW contributes to Indigenous initiatives, please contact Nat Chenhall, Manager of Indigenous Employment on email: [email protected]

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.