About Us

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, in collaboration with the Victorian EPA (Environment Protection Authority), is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to fill the role of Environment Protection on Country (EPOC) Liaison Officer. This position is a critical component of the Environment Protection on Country (EPOC) pilot program, which aims to foster a collaborative approach between Traditional Owner Corporations (TOCs) and the EPA in achieving environment protection outcomes that align with the priorities of Traditional Owners and their Country Plans. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in co-designing a long-term partnership model, identifying opportunities for collaboration, and upskilling participants in environment protection practices.

This position sits within WWCHAC’s Water Program. WWCHAC is focused on achieving Wurundjeri water rights and justice, community directed decision-making and restoring and managing healthy water on Country. The Water Program is WWCHAC’s dedicated team responsible for leading work related to water planning, management and governance. The Water Program is part of the Narrap Unit – the broader Country management unit – and works closely with the Ranger Program and other unit staff.

About the Role

• Promote and facilitate effective collaboration between the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and the Victorian EPA
• Maintain strong relationships with the EPA region/s, Aboriginal Strategy and Partnerships (ASP) unit, and other relevant stakeholders
• Implement a co-designed Work Plan that aligns Traditional Owner priorities and aspirations for Country with EPA organisational and regional priorities.
• Identify opportunities for collaboration between the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and the Victorian EPA to achieve common environmental protection goals, with a focus on preventing harm from pollution and waste.
• Develop and execute a learning and development plan for the role, enhancing the employee's understanding of EPA legislation, regulations, and processes.
• Develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with the Wurundjeri Elders, Wurundjeri staff and other stakeholders as required to perform your role.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the EPOC pilot program, providing valuable feedback through the quarterly Community of Practice meetings.
• Develop and follow a structured process for review, evaluation, and reporting on program outcomes.

About you

• A deep understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage and connection to Country and knowledge of the Victorian EPA Act 2017.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships across different stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Experience in project management and collaboration between diverse parties.
• Previous work with Traditional Owner Corporations or within environmental protection is advantageous.
• Relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent level of professional experience
• Strong negotiation and advocacy skills.
• Ability to drive innovative and/or creative approaches.

** Please note this role is an initial 2-year fixed term contract**

Wurundjeri offer a lovely new office environment in both Abbotsford and Healesville along with free car parking. Our Abbottsford office is opposite Victoria Gardens. Wurundjeri also offers career development and salary packaging.

Please reach out to HR at [email protected] using the subject line: Liaison Officer - Environment Protection (Water Program) enquiry via EthicalJobs with any queries or to request a full Position Description.