This is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Identified Position, classified under ‘special measures’ of section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

• Strategically lead a whole of community approach to self-determination and reconciliation in Wyndham
• Permanent full-time position (flexible working conditions), working across Wyndham
• Salary from $105,462.08 plus super and fortnightly RDO

We are Wyndham, one of Australia’s fastest growing and most diverse cities.

Our people are hard at work designing the precincts, building the infrastructure, developing the policies and delivering the programs that will ensure the City is prepared to welcome over 200,000 new residents by 2040.

Shape new possibilities. Be part of something more.

Council is deeply committed to the journey of Reconciliation. We have a long and proud tradition of working with the Bunurong and Wadawurrung Peoples, as the Traditional Owners of the land which Wyndham City operates.

The Wadawurrung and Bunurong Peoples have and always will belong to the Werribee Yalook (river), creeks, stars, hills and red clay of this Country. We pay respect to their Ancestors and Elders who always have, and always will, care for Country and community today and for future generations.

Wyndham City is home to a large and diverse First Nations population and has one of the largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the Western Region. In recent years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from all over Australia have moved to Wyndham. This marks a steady increase from just over 700 residents identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander in the 2006 census to almost 1200 in 2011, 1735 in 2016 and 2511 in 2021 representing 0.9 per cent of the Wyndham City total population.

We celebrate and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander living culture and history. Our vision for Reconciliation is a Wyndham where we encompass our diverse community. When achieved, we will have increased opportunities for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to thrive. We will challenge prejudice, discrimination and racism to ensure equitable access, participation and inclusion for all.

A bit about the role

As the First Nations Lead you will strategically coordinate and embed a whole of council and community approach to reconciliation and self-determination in Wyndham, supporting a shared vision, understanding and ownership of actions.

This is a key leadership role in the Community Development Department that will provide support across the organisation to implement and embed Council’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

We are looking for a First Nations person who is a leader and passionate about making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Wyndham. Your proactive nature coupled with your dedication to building relationships and coaching others on their journey of Reconciliation, as well as your ability to thrive in a values-led and fast-paced environment will see you excel.

You will work in partnership to provide cultural strengthening leadership across the organisation to develop sustainable approaches of building organisational and individual cultural capacity – ensuring that Council’s operations, programs, services, projects, and policies are culturally safe and responsive. As well as actively build, maintain and support strong, trusted, consultative, collaborative and sustainable working relationships with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community members, community organisations and community members in progressing Reconciliation in Wyndham.

What you’ll deliver

• Embed Council’s RAP, ensuring a whole of council and community approach to its implementation
• Proactively support and coach others to realise opportunities and navigate challenges in their efforts to advance self-determination and reconciliation in Wyndham
• Provide coordination support and advice to the Wyndham Reconciliation Advisory Committee and its working groups responsible for the development, implementation and monitoring of the RAP
• Provide strategic advice and direction on issues related to reconciliation, and commitments, opportunities and challenges for the First Nations community more broadly
• Prepare reports and lead resources, including staff, budgets and funding opportunities
• Coordinate evaluation and continuous improvement

What you’ll bring

• Experience working with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people and developing an organisation-wide Reconciliation Action Plan or relevant community projects
• Initiative and passion about making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Wyndham
• A positive, curious and flexible mind
• Competency and understanding of Aboriginal community engagement and cultural protocols

• Experience leading, motivating and mentoring individuals and cross functional teams
• Knowledge and understanding of the current policy environment influencing and impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People
• Current Victorian Drivers Licence and Working with Children Check
• Ability to work outside of normal office hours when required

Be part of something more

Take a look at our job opportunities and you may be surprised at what you discover: a future-focused culture, a sense of purpose and possibility, and real opportunities to strengthen our diverse community. It all adds up to make Wyndham City a great place to belong.

Our people are our most valued asset. We are focused on building a culture that empowers every person to do their best work. Flexibility is built right into our DNA and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace that celebrates a diverse workforce. Ask us how this role can be worked.

So, are you ready to shape new possibilities?

What’s next?

If you think this role might be for you, we want to hear from you. Please apply by clicking 'apply now' and sending us a cover letter and your resume. We do not require any selection criteria to be addressed.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Cheree Hunter, Manager Community Development on 0466 856 194.

You will be required to provide evidence of a minimum of two doses of an Australian approved COVID-19 Vaccination prior to commencing employment with Council.

We are a proud inclusive employer. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply for our job opportunities. Our commitment is to provide diverse, safe, and inclusive environments where everyone can grow and succeed.