Maiem, Sew Ngapa! (Welcome)

Create impact beyond the office stretching across the sands and seas of the Torres Strait region.

Join one of the most remote – and unique – Australian Public Service (APS) agencies.

Welcome to the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA).

TSRA is the lead Commonwealth agency for Indigenous Affairs in Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait).

We’re the northernmost region of Australia, where beautiful red dirt Country meets turquoise waters.

Located in the nation’s far north between Cairns and Papua New Guinea, we support programs across the Torres Strait region, including for the 17 inhabited islands of the Torres Strait and the communities of Bamaga and Seisia on the Northern Peninsula Area.

We’re a federal government statutory body and operate under the direction of a community-elected board.

Did you know?

The Torres Strait is the northern tip of the Great Barrier Reef.

It’s home to six of the world’s seven marine turtle species (green, hawksbill, loggerhead, flatback, leatherback and olive ridley).

And known as the unofficial seagrass and dugong capital of the world.

Love these facts? This might be your dream job!

About the role

TSRA is on the lookout for a passionate individual with a vessel operations background and experience empowering First Nations communities and staff.

The role offers a unique opportunity to join our award-winning Marine Team – part of our Environmental and Ranger Program (Land and Sea Management Unit) dedicated to caring for land, sea and culture.

Apply your technical expertise in ensuring the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of our vessel fleet.

Working closely with Rangers, you will support and mentor vessel masters in their professional development and operational readiness, as well as driving continuous improvement in safety culture, operational procedures, and regulatory compliance.

About you

We’re looking for a community-focused individual with hands-on experience overseeing vessel operations, preferably in remote regions where adaptability and resourcefulness are key.

The successful applicant will have proven experience working in partnership with First Nations communities.

Minimum certificate of competency - Coxswain Grade 1

This is not a typical 9-5 office job or standard commute. You may need to travel by light aircraft, helicopter and boat.

The ideal candidate will be excited and able to travel regularly across the Torres Strait, with extended stays on Thursday Island and visits to outer islands.

About us

We think locally and act globally.

Since 1994, TSRA has provided a voice from the region to local, state, national and international levels.

Following more than 30 years of advocacy, it’s an exciting time to join us during TSRA’s #SeasonsOfChange with a new CEO, Chair and Board.

Our team of 150+ staff includes a strong local workforce – 84% of staff identify as Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people.

Our staff code switch between English, traditional Torres Strait languages and creole.

We’re one of the region’s largest employers with 3 offices on Thursday Island and 13 ranger sites, supported by a small office in Cairns.

We offer:

A diverse, vibrant and culturally rich workplace – on Fridays we wear floral.

Competitive wages, attractive remuneration package and leave entitlements.

Recognition of local and state government balances such as sick leave and long service.

15.4% superannuation.

Benefits under our Enterprise Agreement include:

Rental subsidies and retention bonuses

Leave types including annual, personal, cultural, long service and paid parental leave

Paid Christmas shut down

Annual healthy lifestyle reimbursements

Help with relocation and travel costs, depending on role and location.

Generous career, study and professional development options.

Who can apply?

The filling of this vacancy is intended to constitute an affirmative measure under section 8(1) of the 'Racial Discrimination Act 1975'. This vacancy is only available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait people.

How to apply

Don’t miss this rare opportunity! Apply directly and download the full candidate pack at www.tsra.gov.au/jobs by 5 October 2025.

Looking for other opportunities with us? Join our employment register at www.tsra.gov.au/jobs

Like our region, our workplace is diverse.

TSRA employs a range of roles from admin, finance, corporate, project management, media and communications to rangers, language leaders, cultural advisors, scientists, climate change experts and marine biologists.

#SeasonsOfChange

Au esoau, Koeyma Eso, thank you