Job Description
Overview
Work Type: Ongoing - Full-time
Salary: $138,631 - $185,518
Grade: VPS 6
Occupation: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander services
Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs
Reference: 10498
About the role
This is a designated position for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australians only in accordance with the Special Measures provision of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic).
The Program Manager, First Peoples Engagement leads coordination and support in relation to how the department works with Traditional Owners and First Peoples communities. They coordinate engagement across projects, provide advice to staff and leaders, and support the rollout of the Wurrek-al First Peoples Engagement Framework. The role builds strong relationships, improves how staff engage, and helps teams meet Treaty and self-determination commitments. Success means more respectful, consistent and stronger partnerships with First Peoples, and better outcomes that support self-determination across the Transport and Planning.
What we’re looking for (Selection Criteria)
You’re someone who:
Leads and manages complex stakeholder relationships, balancing competing priorities and finding practical solutions.
Provides clear, authoritative advice, identifies risks early, and responds to emerging issues effectively.
Communicates key messages in a way that supports decision-making and influences different audiences.
Builds buy-in and influence across stakeholders through negotiation, planning, and long-term engagement strategies.
Works collaboratively across teams, supports change and flexibility, and focuses on delivering outcomes that meet community needs.
Click here to access the Position Description.
Qualifications and experience
You’ll bring:
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Victorian Aboriginal cultures and societies including Traditional Owner groups. (mandatory)
Relevant tertiary qualification would be well regarded. (desirable)
Pre-employment checks and employment conditions
Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required.
Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position.
Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.
How to apply
Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application.
Applications close at 11.59pm on Friday, 8th May 2026.
Please include both your resume and a cover letter addressing how your experience addresses each of the key selection criteria for the role. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions.
For further information about the role, please contact Stephen Alexander - Executive Director, First Peoples Self Determination & Reform via [email protected].
Redeployees
If you are a VPS redeployee, please state this in your cover letter and include your case manager’s contact details. This helps ensure your redeployment status is appropriately considered. For more information on redeployment, visit the Victorian Government policy here:
https://www.vic.gov.au/public-sector-industrial-relations-policies-2025/redundancy-redeployment-and-retrenchment
Important Information
If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us. We're here to support you.
Applications close Friday 8 May 2026 at 11.59pm
Posted
10 April 2026
Work Type: Ongoing - Full-time
Salary: $138,631 - $185,518
Grade: VPS 6
Occupation: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander services
Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs
Reference: 10498
About the role
This is a designated position for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australians only in accordance with the Special Measures provision of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic).
The Program Manager, First Peoples Engagement leads coordination and support in relation to how the department works with Traditional Owners and First Peoples communities. They coordinate engagement across projects, provide advice to staff and leaders, and support the rollout of the Wurrek-al First Peoples Engagement Framework. The role builds strong relationships, improves how staff engage, and helps teams meet Treaty and self-determination commitments. Success means more respectful, consistent and stronger partnerships with First Peoples, and better outcomes that support self-determination across the Transport and Planning.
What we’re looking for (Selection Criteria)
You’re someone who:
Leads and manages complex stakeholder relationships, balancing competing priorities and finding practical solutions.
Provides clear, authoritative advice, identifies risks early, and responds to emerging issues effectively.
Communicates key messages in a way that supports decision-making and influences different audiences.
Builds buy-in and influence across stakeholders through negotiation, planning, and long-term engagement strategies.
Works collaboratively across teams, supports change and flexibility, and focuses on delivering outcomes that meet community needs.
Click here to access the Position Description.
Qualifications and experience
You’ll bring:
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Victorian Aboriginal cultures and societies including Traditional Owner groups. (mandatory)
Relevant tertiary qualification would be well regarded. (desirable)
Pre-employment checks and employment conditions
Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required.
Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position.
Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.
How to apply
Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application.
Applications close at 11.59pm on Friday, 8th May 2026.
Please include both your resume and a cover letter addressing how your experience addresses each of the key selection criteria for the role. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions.
For further information about the role, please contact Stephen Alexander - Executive Director, First Peoples Self Determination & Reform via [email protected].
Redeployees
If you are a VPS redeployee, please state this in your cover letter and include your case manager’s contact details. This helps ensure your redeployment status is appropriately considered. For more information on redeployment, visit the Victorian Government policy here:
https://www.vic.gov.au/public-sector-industrial-relations-policies-2025/redundancy-redeployment-and-retrenchment
Important Information
If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us. We're here to support you.
Applications close Friday 8 May 2026 at 11.59pm
Posted
10 April 2026
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Program Manager, First Peoples Engagement position is now open for candidates interested in the Government Job Alert sector. This role in Melbourne offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Government Job Alert is a plus.
