About Us

NIYEC is a growing collective of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people committed to transforming learning systems. Through collaboration and systemic change, we’re shaping a future that centres Indigenous self-determination, liberty, and freedom in education.

About the Role

The Research Assistant position will play an integral role in supporting NIYEC’s research initiatives. The position will involve working closely with the Director of Research and Impact to inform NIYEC’s research agenda, advocacy, policy recommendations, and impact evaluation.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research & Data Collection – Conduct literature reviews, policy scans, and participatory research; support data collection, database management, and ethics processes.
• Knowledge Translation – Develop research reports, policy briefs, and communication materials; translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Outreach & Capacity Building – Recruit and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people in research programs; engage stakeholders and coordinate community networks.
• Monitoring & Impact – Track and evaluate NIYEC initiatives; maintain evaluation dashboards and contribute to impact reporting.

Key Selection Criteria

• Relevant qualification in social sciences, education, Indigenous studies, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Experience in conducting research, including with Indigenous communities.
• Strong ability to build rapport and maintain positive working relationships with Indigenous young people and stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to translate research findings into accessible formats.
• Experience in qualitative and/or quantitative data collection, analysis, and research database management.
• Experience in using research tools such as NVivo, SPSS, EndNote, or equivalent.

ABOUT YOU

You are passionate about education justice and Indigenous-led research. You have experience working with Indigenous communities. You are highly organised, detail-oriented, and comfortable engaging with young people and stakeholders. Your research skills include data collection, analysis, and ethical research practices, and you are committed to upholding Indigenous knowledge systems and self-determination.

This is an identified role suitable for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only. The filling of this position is intended to constitute a special opportunity measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth), and s 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic) and s 8(4) of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic).

The National Indigenous Youth Education Coalition considers that being Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander is a genuine occupational requirement for this position under sub-s 26(3) or s 28 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic).

Why Join Us?

At NIYEC, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to systemic change, amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, and work alongside a team passionate about education. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to be part of a movement to self-determine our learning futures. We offer flexible work arrangements, and are governed by a 100% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Board and Leadership team.

Recruitment may close early if the position is filled before the submission date.

A position description is attached.