• Great Barrier Reef Traditional Owner Taskforce
• Independent contractor until June 2026 | Flexible

Preference will be given to suitably qualified and experienced Reef Traditional Owners. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply for this opportunity.If accommodations are required during the interview process, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Reef Traditional Owner Taskforce

In alignment with actions in the Reef 2050 Traditional Owner Implementation Plan (Reef TO Plan), an independent Reef Traditional Owner Taskforce is being established to take carriage of and drive the actions in the Reef TO Plan to amplify Reef Traditional Owner voices and improve Reef Traditional Owner participation in Reef governance and management. In carrying out its functions, the Taskforce will be guided by and act in the best interests of Traditional Owners across the Reef and ensuring Traditional Owners are overseeing the project.
The Taskforce is not a representative body, but a Traditional Owner-led group with the knowledge and skills required to engage with Reef Traditional Owners on the establishment of an independent Sea Country Alliance to provide Reef Traditional Owners with a strong representative voice.

The Taskforce will be hosted by the Pollination Foundation, the not-for-profit arm of a global advisory and investment firm, whose focus is to put humanity at the heart of nature and climate solutions. It is anticipated that the Pollination Foundation will act as host until 30 June 2026 or until such time as a Sea Country Alliance is established.

About the role

The Taskforce Co-Chairs are responsible for jointly leading the Taskforce to oversee the implementation of the Reef TO Plan, ensuring the Taskforce operates according to the Taskforce Terms of Reference and the Taskforce Governance Charter, focusing on its three priority functions (see below). This role is expected to provide leadership, facilitate discussions, and ensure the focused productivity of the Taskforce.

You will represent the Taskforce externally, coordinate activities, and maintain clear communication both within the group and with external stakeholders. Occasional travel will be required to attend Taskforce meetings and associated Reef TO commitments. You will support the Taskforce to deliver its three priority functions:

1. Engaging with Traditional Owners on options for a Sea Country Alliance (Reef-wide and regionally) and implementing the preferred option.
2. Overseeing the delivery of strategic policy and capacity building actions in the Implementation Plan while a Sea Country Alliance is being established.
3. Monitoring and reporting on the delivery of Traditional Owners actions in this Plan as part of the broader Reef 2050 integrated monitoring and reporting.

For a complete description of the role, please contact Tiana Callaughan at [email protected] using the subject line: Co-Chair - Great Barrier Reef Traditional Owner Taskforce - Cairns enquiry via EthicalJobs.

About you

The ideal candidate will exemplify collaborative and resilient leadership qualities and have a proven track record of leading a Committee, Taskforce or Board. The ideal candidate will be a Reef Traditional Owner who exemplifies resilient leadership qualities. You will have experience in contributing to an organisation's strategic objectives and fostering a respectful, culturally appropriate and inclusive environment. You will have broad stakeholder communications and engagement capabilities with demonstrated experience navigating community and government. It is highly desired that you have knowledge and understanding of Indigenous affairs policy, legislation, and frameworks, including best practices in paving the way and advocating for transformational change for future generations.

Key Requirements

The Taskforce is a skills-based group providing advice and guidance. Taskforce Members must demonstrate extensive knowledge and experience in one or more of the following:

1. Indigenous governance, rights and engagement
2. Governance and legal frameworks
3. Strategic policy and planning
4. Partnerships and capacity building
5. Multi-lateral agreement making
6. Reef and catchment management
7. Indigenous knowledge systems
8. Sustainable and/or innovative financing and investment
9. Communication and engagement
10. Technology, information management and innovation
11. Education, skills development, employment, and business enterprises.

If this sounds like you, join the Taskforce as they create a resilient future for the Reef.

What we can offer you

Pollination Foundation is committed to reciprocal partnerships with Indigenous communities and offers you:

• A role with the opportunity to make a positive generational impact;
• An attractive sitting fee;
• fFexible work options; and
• Exceptional personal and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply

Your application should include:

1. a one-page cover letter outlining why you have applied for the position and how you meet the requirements of the position; and
2. an up-to-date, maximum of two-page CV detailing your skills and experience relevant to this role.

Applications should be submitted through our website by clicking the “Apply Now” button below.

How to get more information

For further information on the position, please get in touch with Pipeline Talent via phone or email for a confidential discussion.

Lesina Gibbs-Manuatu, Chief Operations Officer

[email protected]

M 0408 027 880 | PH 02 8001 6603

Tiana Callaughan. Assistant Director

[email protected] | [email protected]

M 0476 538 307 | PH 02 8001 6603