JOB TITLE: Lead Guardian (3 x Positions available)
LOCATION: Warrnambool, Victoria
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: 1.0 FTE, Up to 30 June 2028, Full-time or Part-time, Negotiable
SALARY: $80,000 to $85,000 per annum + super
REPORTS TO: On Country Coordinator
DIRECT REPORTS: Up to 6
IDENTIFICATION: Designated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander appointment

About the Organisation

The Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) requires that, following a native title determination, native title holders establish a Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) to manage and protect their rights and interests. These corporations must incorporate under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act) and register with the National Native Title Tribunal (NNTT). Once registered, they become a Registered Native Title Body Corporate (RNTBC).

Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) was established in 2011 as a PBC following a positive consent determination by the Federal Court, covering an area known as PART B—from Deen Maar (Lady Julia Percy Island) to Dunkeld—shared with the Western Gunditjmara People, represented by Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.

In 2023, a second determination expanded EMAC’s jurisdiction from Yambuk to Aireys Inlet, reaching Middle Creek and Ararat, and looping south to Dunkeld.

EMAC is a formally recognised Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP), with responsibilities for protecting and managing cultural heritage across a broader area extending to Winchelsea and Landsborough.

As the representative body for Eastern Maar citizens, EMAC leads the advancement of native title rights and interests, cultural heritage protection, high-quality policy advice, and initiatives aligned with the inherent rights, aspirations, and independence of its people.

This is a new role at EMAC that supports both the CEO and the Board, reporting directly to the CEO and sitting within the Office of the CEO.

Who we are looking for

EMAC is seeking Lead Guardians to join Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) in a newly created Indigenous Ranger Program (IRP) Employment Model that supports the development of a fit-for-purpose employment structure and organisational model, enabling the successful integration of IRP-funded full-time Guardian roles within its broader workforce.

This is not a Casual role. Instead, it is a fixed-term employment with the primary purpose of onsite supervision, team coordination, mentoring, and coaching for Guardians.

What you'll be doing

On a day-to-day basis:

In this role, you’ll take on a mix of field supervision and hands-on delivery, guiding Guardian crews to work safely, effectively, and with pride in their responsibilities.

Lead and supervise Guardian crews in the field, ensuring safe and effective work practices.

Plan daily tasks, adjust to on-the-ground needs, and support operational scheduling.

Mentor Guardians through on-the-job coaching and guidance.

Work hands-on with crews while also preparing reports and project wrap-ups.

Support inductions for new team members and contribute to the Junior Ranger Program.

Act as a Health & Safety representative (HSR) and prioritise presence on complex or high-risk projects.

Take on specialist responsibilities such as fleet and equipment oversight or cultural heritage inductions (with training provided).

Collaborate with the Healthy Country team to deliver projects and grow leadership skills.

What you’ll bring

We’re looking for someone who:

Strong leadership, coaching, and teamwork skills.

Respectful and effective communication with Eastern Maar citizens.

Organisational skills with initiative and problem-solving ability.

Clear communication – written, verbal, and listening.

Knowledge of cultural heritage identification.

Reliability, self-motivation, and good time management.

Respect for confidentiality and privacy.

Appropriate fitness for fieldwork.

A strong connection to Eastern Maar Country and community.

About You

This role requires a natural leader who enjoys working outdoors and guiding others to do their best work. You communicate with respect and sensitivity, especially with Eastern Maar citizens, and bring strong organisational and problem-solving skills. You’re reliable, motivated, and able to manage your time well. You value confidentiality, have the fitness to work in the field, and hold a strong connection to Eastern Maar Country and community.

For further details, read the full position description available at https://easternmaar.com.au/category/news/

Working with EMAC – Our offer to you

At EMAC, we are committed to fostering a supportive, culturally safe, and empowering work environment. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

Salary packaging benefits in accordance with the ATO-approved rates for Public Benevolent Institutions. Currently up to $15,900 + Meal/Entertainment benefits up to $2,650 per year.

Paid Christmas break in addition to 4 weeks' annual leave

Employee Assistance Program

A friendly and supportive culture

Professional development opportunities

How can you apply

Applications close: Sunday, 07 September 2025 at 11:59 PM

To apply, send

your resume outlining your employment history

which position/s and preferred hours of work you wish to apply for
(Only one application is required if applying for multiple roles)

and a cover letter introducing yourself, outlining your motivation for applying and highlighting how your background aligns with the requirements of the role or a brief statement of why you should be considered (noting the Key Selection Criteria) to [email protected]

For further details, read the full position description available at https://easternmaar.com.au/lead-guardian-20-08/