Lead cultural change. Protect knowledge. Create lasting impact.

• Senior Program Officer (Identified) | Aboriginal Strategy, Policy, and Engagement
• Temporary Full-Time opportunity up to 30 June 2028
• Located in Paramatta, other locations considered
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $133,348 to $146,945 plus super

This is an Aboriginal Identified role where Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are a genuine aspect of the role. Positions are specifically noted under the provisions of the NSW Anti-discrimination Act (1977).

We are seeking an experienced and passionate professional to join our team as a Senior Program Officer, Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP).

This is a unique opportunity to lead strategic initiatives that protect and uphold Aboriginal cultural knowledge, rights and interests while driving meaningful change across the Department. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders, you will play a critical role in strengthening the way ICIP is recognised, respected and safeguarded through policy, practice and partnerships.

Your work will contribute directly to better outcomes for Aboriginal peoples, communities and organisations, ensuring that cultural knowledge is managed ethically, respectfully and in accordance with the Department's Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property Protocol. 

The role

As the Senior Program Officer, you will lead the delivery and ongoing development of the Department-wide ICIP program. You will provide expert advice, influence organisational capability and strengthen governance frameworks that support culturally safe and responsive decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, implementation, governance and evaluation of the Department's ICIP program.
• Provide expert advice, guidance and training to staff to build awareness, capability and confidence in identifying and managing ICIP considerations.
• Drive strategic initiatives that strengthen the Department's ability to meet its responsibilities under the ICIP Protocol.
• Review and improve policies, guidance materials, agreements and other documentation to safeguard Aboriginal cultural knowledge and rights.
• Undertake research and analysis of cultural governance, legal frameworks and emerging approaches to protecting ICIP
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Aboriginal communities, organisations and stakeholders through respectful, culturally informed engagement.
• Identify opportunities to improve organisational practices and influence positive cultural change across the Department.
• Prepare high-quality advice, reports, recommendations and briefing materials for senior leaders and decision-makers.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Senior Program Officer Identified

About You

We are looking for a highly capable professional who brings:

• Demonstrated understanding of ICIP and their application within government, community or organisational settings.
• Experience leading complex projects, programs or policy initiatives from development through to implementation and evaluation.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, relationship management and consultation skills, particularly when working with Aboriginal peoples, communities and organisations.
• Experience providing strategic advice and influencing decision-making at senior levels.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to facilitate discussions, training and navigate sensitive issues with cultural awareness and professionalism.
• Strong analytical and research capabilities with the ability to translate findings into practical recommendations.
• A commitment to cultural safety, self-determination and positive outcomes for Aboriginal peoples.

Essential requirements

• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline and/or demonstrated equivalent experience.

·       Aboriginal identified positions are developed where Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are a genuine aspect of the role. Positions are specifically noted under the provisions of the NSW Anti-discrimination Act (1977) for Aboriginal people who meet the following criteria: 

·       is of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent, and 

·       identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, and 

·       is accepted as such by the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities. 

We are an inclusive and accessible workplace, where your individual contributions are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to feel a sense of connection and belonging. DPHI supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments.

Join us

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close 11:55pm, Monday 17^th August 2026.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Lisa Moir, Principal Strategy Manager via lisa.moir@dphi.nsw.gov.au

A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months. 

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal Career Pathways team for a yarn. 

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via talent.acquisition@dpie.nsw.gov.au or (02) 63637676​ - HR Support, option 2, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'. 

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including a criminal record check.