Executive Officer Birrarung Council

This is an exciting opportunity to join DEECA as Executive Officer for the Birrarung Council. The Birrarung Council was established as the voice of Birrarung, a committee appointed by the Minister for Water under the Yarra River Protection (Wilip-gin Birrarung murron) Act 2017, and comprising Indigenous and non-Indigenous representatives walking together to speak for and with the river, recognising the intrinsic connection of Traditional Owners to Birrarung and their role as custodians of Country. This position coordinates support for the Council by leading the secretariat staff and managing operational budget.

The role will provide high level strategic and governance advice and support to the Birrarung Council, enabling them to meet their objectives as the ‘Voice of the Yarra’ and deliver their statutory requirements under the Act. A particular focus of the role is supporting the Elders on Council. You will have a demonstrated track record of stakeholder engagement, including significant experience in partnering with Traditional Owners, and successful relationship management, problem solving and governance skills. You will have a proven ability to operate with a high degree of confidentiality and sensitivity. 

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge and understanding of current challenges, issues, opportunities and community aspirations of Aboriginal Victorian communities.
• Experience providing high level strategic and governance advice in confidential settings whilst also observing cultural sensitivities and protocols.
• Able to empower and strengthen groups through the identification, creation and realisation of opportunities.

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.

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. 

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Applications close 11.59pm on Tuesday, 17 March 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