First Nations Senior Policy Manager
Full time maximum term position to 30 June 2027
Salary range: $138,909 - $162,060 plus super
Up to $15,900 in salary packaging and hybrid WFH & office model
About the role
In this newly created role, you will be working with VLA staff, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), and other key stakeholders to plan, support, and lead efforts which support VLA's work towards First Nations Data Sovereignty and Governance.
You will also be responsible for leading work within Outcomes and Evidence (a First Nations-led unit) to embed First Nations perspectives and principles of self-determination into processes and outputs.
This is a special measures role and only First Nations people are eligible to apply, as per the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.
This role is based at our Melbourne CBD office on Wurundjeri Country.
About you
As our ideal candidate, you will possess:
Demonstrated experience and understanding of cultural norms in working with First Nations communities (mandatory).
Lived experience working with First Nations people and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, including an understanding of the communication styles and complex issues experienced by First Nations communities.
Demonstrated experience leading policy development and/or project management experience.
Highly developed interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, and a demonstrated ability to influence and negotiate with people from all levels and develop and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Don't meet every requirement? At VLA, we understand that your work and life experiences can be just as valuable. If you're excited about this role but your CV doesn't align perfectly with our job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or one of our many other opportunities.
About Victoria Legal Aid
We provide legal representation to those who need it most. With over 1400 staff employed in 16 offices across Victoria, we help people with their legal problems by providing information, advice and education with a focus on the prevention and early resolution of legal problems.
Our clients come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds and foster a work culture that's inclusive as well as diverse. Your unique ideas and perspectives are valued so that we best represent the people we serve.
Employee benefits
Focus on work-life balance including flexible working arrangements
Hybrid work from home & office model
Training and professional development opportunities
Excellent salary packaging options including General Expenses up to $15,900, Meals & Entertainment up to $2,650 and Novated Leasing
Opportunity to join Myki Commuter Club(and salary package the cost)
Supportive team environment in modern offices (including free gym and end-of-trip facilities at our CBD office)
Access to discounted Private Health Insurance
How to apply
To be considered for this role, please submit your current resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria.
If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process or need an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team.
For further information, please review the attached position description or contact Suzanne Mihovilovich, Portfolio Manager on (03) 9269 0403 or Ash Morris, Executive Director, First Nations Services on 0447 293 498.
No agency applications will be accepted.
Applications close by 11.59pm on Sunday 27th July 2025.
Other relevant information
It is a requirement that staff attend for office-based days at their primary work location. In line with this requirement, interstate applications will be considered only where the candidate is able and willing to relocate to Victoria, unless part of a border community.
VLA is committed to putting the safety and wellbeing of children first.
Job details
Job Reference:
VG/VLA/CLICS/1871478
Location:
Melbourne - CBD
Work Type:
Fixed term - full time
Job Function:
Policy
Classification:
WVR 5.2 - 52AO8C
Salary Range:
$138,909 - $162,060
Job Duration:
to 30 June 2027
Date posted:
04-Jul-2025
Application Close Date:
27-Jul-2025