Ngukurr Language Centre is seeking a dedicated person to join the team as our Coordinator. This is an exciting opportunity to manage a passionate team of language workers, elders, and linguists.

About the Ngukurr Language Centre

The goal of the organisation is to revitalise, document, teach and promote the traditional languages of the Roper River region. This is achieved through the delivery of a range of community-based language programs and through advocacy within the wider community. Current programs include language camps, early childhood language program, conversation classes, resource production including dictionaries, cultural awareness courses, and professional development for Indigenous language workers.

The Ngukurr Language Centre is an independent, Indigenous governed organisation with a culture of transparency and inclusivity. It is well known for its community focus in supporting the maintenance and revitalisation of Indigenous languages of the region. It was originally established in 1999 as a branch of the Katherine Regional Aboriginal Language Centre (KRALC) and after the closure of KRALC, reopened as an independent organisation in 2011. It has been moving from strength to strength since then, and now has secured operational funding through to June 2026, with the view to extend in the next funding round.

After developing this young organisation into its current healthy state with vibrant programs and a big presence in the community, the outgoing Coordinator seeks to hand over the role to a new Coordinator who can oversee the continued development of the organisation.

Organisation structure

The Ngukurr Language Centre is a small, independent, non-profit organisation. The organisation is governed by an all Indigenous committee, elected from a membership base of local language workers, language speakers and educators. The Coordinator reports directly to the Board of Directors and supervises the other employees including part-time and casual language workers, a linguist, teacher linguist, and business manager. The Language Centre also has a contracted accountant.

About the role

The Coordinator manages the daily operations of the Language Centre while working alongside linguists and Indigenous language workers to develop and deliver language programs. The Coordinator reports to the board and is responsible for fostering strong governance, overseeing finances and administration, and implementing the strategic plan. They also supervise staff and manage the centre’s assets and resources. This role combines leadership and management responsibilities with involvement in language programs and collaboration with the local community. As a community-facing role, it requires a strong focus on community engagement.

The position is part-time (30.4hours/week). The incoming Coordinator will be given a two-week hand-over by the outgoing Coordinator. There is a six-month probationary period, with an initial review after three months. Accommodation is provided. It is fully furnished with all amenities included. The Language Centre has a vehicle which is to be used for work purposes only.

The Language Centre welcomes all applications. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.

About you

This position requires a multi-skilled person with a high level of cross-cultural competence. It is suited to an adaptable, friendly, and organised individual with either a strong background in linguistics and proven project management skills, a business management background with experience in language work, or both. A strong understanding of the context of Aboriginal languages and a commitment to community development are essential. As well as a flexible, proactive approach and a willingness to learn.

Before applying, please consider that living and working in a remote environment can be challenging. Applicants who have previous experience working in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander communities is not essential but will be highly regarded.

Location and Languages

The Coordinator is required to be based in Ngukurr, a large Aboriginal community (pop: 1000+) in Southern Arnhem Land. It is a dry community. The community has 8-10 traditional languages that are all endangered. The language of everyday communication is Roper Kriol. The community is surrounded by tropical savannah landscape and lies on the banks of the Roper River. It is close to Limmen National Park, providing many opportunities for fishing and camping. The community amenities include a swimming pool, arts centre, health clinic, school, childcare centre, police station, motel, and a large store.

Salary and Entitlements

• Salary Range: $ $85,000 - $88,000 plus 11.5% Superannuation (based on skills and experience)

• Annual Leave: 6 weeks (includes 17.5% leave loading)

• Accommodation: Fully furnished accommodation in a small two bedroom house.

• Tenure: 2 years (with possibility to extend)

• AwardSocial, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010

To discuss the position or to find out more please email [email protected] using the subject line: Language Centre Coordinator - Ngukurr enquiry via EthicalJobs or call (08) 8977 4225 (Mon-Thur 9AM-5PM).

An application pack is attached.