JOB TITLE: Local Government Liaison Officer
LOCATION: Warrnambool, Victoria
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: 1.0 FTE, 12 months, Fixed-term, Full-time
SALARY: $71,100 to $78,900 per annum + super
REPORTS TO: General Manager, Corporation Services
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.

Who we are looking for

Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) is seeking a Local Government Liaison Officer to build and strengthen partnerships with 9 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across Eastern Maar Country.

This role will guide councils in embedding Eastern Maar values and perspectives into governance, policy, and community initiatives, ensuring sustainable partnerships that reflect self-determination, cultural recognition, and shared prosperity.

What you'll be doing

On a day-to-day basis:

Build respectful partnerships between EMAC and LGAs across Eastern Maar Country.

Guide LGAs to implement culturally appropriate policies, strategies, and agreements.

Support Recognition and Settlement Agreement (RSA) negotiations and implementation.

Facilitate cultural awareness and embed Traditional Owner perspectives in governance.

Advocate for employment, procurement, and business opportunities for Eastern Maar citizens.

Support land management and planning processes that reflect cultural values.

Provide advice to the government and stakeholders to strengthen long-term partnerships.

What you’ll bring

We’re looking for someone who:

Strong knowledge of Eastern Maar people, Country, culture, values, and aspirations.

Proven experience working with local government, Traditional Owner groups, or community organisations.

Experience in policy development and implementation.

Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.

Ability to translate strategy into action within local government contexts.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Other requirements include:

Holder of a Working with Children Check

Holder of a Current Victorian Driver’s Licence.

Undertaken a National Police Check for Employment Purposes within the last 3 months

For further details, read the full position description available at https://easternmaar.com.au/local-government-liaison-officer-25-09/

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:

Flexible hybrid working arrangements are available

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, 05 October 2025 at 11:59 PM.

To apply, please send:

Your resume, outlining your employment history, qualifications, and achievements.

A cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria, highlighting your skills and experience.

Send your application to: Ms Bansri Dave, HR Officer – [email protected]

If you have any questions about the role, please email Ms Bansri Dave, HR Officer, at [email protected]

For further details, read the full position description available at https://easternmaar.com.au/media-communications-officer-21-08/