Traditional Owner Agreements Officer

Are you passionate about building strong partnerships and supporting meaningful outcomes with Traditional Owner communities? We’re looking for a Program Officer – Traditional Owner Agreements to play a key role in delivering DEECA’s commitments under the Taungurung Recognition and Settlement Agreement (RSA).

In this dynamic role, you will work closely with the Program Manager, regional teams, and the Taungurung Land and Waters Council, helping ensure agreements are effectively delivered on the ground. You’ll collaborate across DEECA divisions and with a wide range of partners, supporting a genuine, respectful partnership approach.

What you’ll do:

• Support and monitor the delivery of DEECA commitments, with a strong focus on Land Use Activity Agreement obligations
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Traditional Owner Corporations, government agencies, and key stakeholders
• Foster effective communication to enable collaborative, place-based outcomes
• Assist with regional coordination and representation at key meetings and forums
• Contribute to a positive, high-performing organisational culture

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Experience and knowledge of Traditional Owners and public land management, including natural resource management, policy and/or program delivery, particularly as it relates to the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 is desirable.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly those affecting the Aboriginal people of Victoria.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within Hume Region 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 Thursday, 14 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.