Job Description
The Senior Project Officer is responsible for leading / contributing to the implementation of DEECA commitments that arise from the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (Vic) and other agreements with Traditional Owner corporations in Victoria.
The position is part of the Traditional Owner Agreements Unit which is responsible for negotiating and implementing a range of Government commitments in the growing area of Traditional Owner settlements. The team coordinates input to native title settlement negotiations, leads initial implementation of settlements, manages the set-up of Traditional Owner Land Management Boards and supports the development of joint management plans and provides governance and policy advice to fulfil Government and Traditional Owner land management and natural resource objectives.
This is an exciting position for someone with experience and skills in the delivery of dynamic programs and projects and with a strong interest in working with Traditional Owners. This role offers the opportunity to work on diverse and rewarding tasks.
Accountabilities include coordinating and monitoring the effective implementation of DELWP commitments in agreements between the Victorian Government and Traditional Owner Corporations and Traditional Owner Land Management Boards. You will also effectively communicate, negotiate and build strong and effective relationships with Traditional Owner Corporations, government agencies, statutory entities and individuals and peers as required.
This is designated position under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
Experience and knowledge in the development and delivery of policy, programs and projects; use of these skills in the context of land management and Traditional Owner policy development and/or implementation is advantageous.
The ability to build on your existing cultural knowledge and understanding to develop and maintain strong relationships with Aboriginal people including appropriate and effective communications.
An understanding of the Traditional Owner Settlement Act (Vic) 2010, self-determination, and/or Natural Resource Management is advantageous.
Tertiary qualification(s) including post-graduate qualification(s) in in science, law, public policy, natural resource or environmental management or similar is desirable.
This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria with hybrid work arrangements available.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.
For further information please refer to the attached position description.
Applications close at midnight on Tuesday, 10 September 2026.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.
This position is classified as an “identified position” aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People. The position requires an in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an ability to communicate with Aboriginal communities. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
We recognise the significant responsibility to enable self-determination, be accountable to Traditional Owners and provide opportunities to strengthen First Peoples' connection to Country. We are committed to creating a culturally safe environment, where individuals feel safe, valued, and able to celebrate their culture, and spiritual and belief systems.
For general information about Aboriginal Employment at DEECA, please contact self.determination@delwp.vic.gov.au.
The position is part of the Traditional Owner Agreements Unit which is responsible for negotiating and implementing a range of Government commitments in the growing area of Traditional Owner settlements. The team coordinates input to native title settlement negotiations, leads initial implementation of settlements, manages the set-up of Traditional Owner Land Management Boards and supports the development of joint management plans and provides governance and policy advice to fulfil Government and Traditional Owner land management and natural resource objectives.
This is an exciting position for someone with experience and skills in the delivery of dynamic programs and projects and with a strong interest in working with Traditional Owners. This role offers the opportunity to work on diverse and rewarding tasks.
Accountabilities include coordinating and monitoring the effective implementation of DELWP commitments in agreements between the Victorian Government and Traditional Owner Corporations and Traditional Owner Land Management Boards. You will also effectively communicate, negotiate and build strong and effective relationships with Traditional Owner Corporations, government agencies, statutory entities and individuals and peers as required.
This is designated position under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
Experience and knowledge in the development and delivery of policy, programs and projects; use of these skills in the context of land management and Traditional Owner policy development and/or implementation is advantageous.
The ability to build on your existing cultural knowledge and understanding to develop and maintain strong relationships with Aboriginal people including appropriate and effective communications.
An understanding of the Traditional Owner Settlement Act (Vic) 2010, self-determination, and/or Natural Resource Management is advantageous.
Tertiary qualification(s) including post-graduate qualification(s) in in science, law, public policy, natural resource or environmental management or similar is desirable.
This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within Victoria with hybrid work arrangements available.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.
For further information please refer to the attached position description.
Applications close at midnight on Tuesday, 10 September 2026.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace
DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.
This position is classified as an “identified position” aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People. The position requires an in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an ability to communicate with Aboriginal communities. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
We recognise the significant responsibility to enable self-determination, be accountable to Traditional Owners and provide opportunities to strengthen First Peoples' connection to Country. We are committed to creating a culturally safe environment, where individuals feel safe, valued, and able to celebrate their culture, and spiritual and belief systems.
For general information about Aboriginal Employment at DEECA, please contact self.determination@delwp.vic.gov.au.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Senior Project Officer 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.