Senior Project Officer

The Senior Project Officer will work as part of a high performing team to support delivery of, be guided by and contribute to outcomes and accountabilities under Pupangarli Marnmarnepu (DEECA’s Aboriginal Self-Determination Reform Strategy 2020-2025). Working in a dynamic environment, the Senior Project Officer will support the delivery of high-quality engagement support across DEECA to build partnerships with Traditional Owners.

The role will be responsible for delivering a high quality of service to the Statewide Caring for Country Partnership Forum, Traditional Owner Corporation Caucus and its Secretariat, through engagement, administrative and policy functions supporting the unification of Traditional Owner voices (where appropriate), executing targeted outreach and engagement with members, evaluating Traditional Owner satisfaction and supporting collective engagement and participation with DEECA and other government departments as necessary or directed by the Traditional Owner Corporation Caucus.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

Demonstrated skills, experience and knowledge of Aboriginal Culture and contemporary issues affecting Aboriginal Victorians today to deliver culturally informed government programs and services is required.

Demonstrated experience of project management, budget management and stakeholder management of projects in an end-to-end capacity that has resulted in positive business outcomes.

Demonstrated contract management experience.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne 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.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description , including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.

Applications close 11.59pm on Wednesday, 08 July 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History 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. For more information visit applying for a role with us .

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 aboriginal.employment@deeca.vic.gov.au .