Project Officer - Identified Aboriginal Position

We’re looking for a passionate and motivated Project Officer to join our First Peoples’ Energy team. In this role, you’ll work alongside our Engagement Manager to deliver programs that matter - starting with First Peoples Energy engagement, Offshore Wind initiatives and support partnerships with Traditional Owner Corporations and First Peoples’ communities. Your work will help ensure First Peoples’ voices and aspirations are central to Victoria’s renewable energy transition.

What you’ll do:

Build strong, respectful relationships with Traditional Owner Corporations, First Peoples’ communities, and partners across the energy sector. Support culturally informed projects and programs that reflect Aboriginal priorities. Contribute to DEECA’s commitment to Pupangarli Marnmarnepu, our Aboriginal Self-Determination Reform Strategy.

What we’re looking for:

Strong organisational and project management skills.
Excellent communication and ability to work collaboratively in a team.
Knowledge of Aboriginal culture and contemporary issues affecting Aboriginal Victorians.
Experience in program or project delivery (energy sector or grants management experience is a bonus!).

This is your opportunity to make a real impact - supporting First Peoples’ projects and aspirations for renewable energy while building a cleaner, fairer future for Victoria.

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.
• Experience in project management or program delivery is highly desirable.
• Drivers Licence is highly desirable.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 24 months. 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. 

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Applications close 11.59pm on Wednesday, 13 May 2026.

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

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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.