Senior Native Title Officer, (Negotiation)

Regions, Environment, Climate Action and First Peoples - DEECA; Melbourne; Hybrid; AUD 90,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Regions, Environment, Climate Action and First Peoples - DEECA in Melbourne seeks a Senior Native Title Officer to lead negotiations and settlements of native title claims and agreements, under the Native Title Act and Vic TOS Act. The role supports policy guidance for Traditional Owner land management and trust governance, within the First Peoples Self Determination Division.

The position requires experience in policy development and strong communication with First Peoples, with hybrid work

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification(s) including in law or public policy is desirable.
• Experience and knowledge in policy development, programs and projects related to native title negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate and settle native title claims and agreements under relevant acts.
• Provide governance and policy advice to support traditional owner land management and agreements.
• Support the setup and operation of Traditional Owner Land Management Boards and joint management plans.

Skills

Policy development

Negotiation experience

Aboriginal culture awareness

Communication with First Peoples

Education

Law or public policy degree

Job description

Senior Native Title Officer, (Negotiation)

Regions, Environment, Climate Action and First Peoples - DEECA - Melbourne VIC

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

Senior Native Title Officer, Traditional Owner Agreements Unit, First Peoples Self Determination Division

The Senior Native Title Officer plays a critical role in the negotiation and settlement of native title claims and agreements under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) and Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (Vic) (TOS Act), as well as the oversight in the administration of procedural rights processes for future act and land use activities occurring on Crown land. The role supports development of native title / TOS Act policy, guidance and advice to support negotiation and implementation of Traditional Owner land management rights and aspirations. The position will suit a person with legal and/or legal policy experience.

The position is part of the Traditional Owner Agreements Unit which is responsible for negotiating and implementing a range of government commitments in the growing area of Traditional Owner agreements. In addition to agreement negotiations, the team leads implementation of settlements, manages the set-up of Traditional Owner Land Management Boards and supports the development of joint management plans and provides governance and policy advice to fulfil Government and Traditional Owner land management and natural resource objectives. Located within the First Peoples Self Determination Division, the work of the Traditional Owner Agreements Unit supports DEECA's self-determination reform agenda through the implementation of Pupangarli Marnmarnepu 'Owning Our Future' - First Peoples Self-Determination Reform Strategy 2026-2031.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification(s) including in law or public policy is desirable.
• Experience and knowledge in the development and delivery of policy, programs and projects in the context of the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (Vic) and Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) negotiations, land management and natural resource management and Traditional Owner policy is advantageous.
• A demonstrated knowledge and understanding of First Peoples culture and society and ability to communicate effectively with First Peoples.
• Demonstrated skills, experience and knowledge of Aboriginal Culture and contemporary issues affecting Aboriginal Victorians today to deliver culturally informed government policies and services is required.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 12 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.

Applications close 11.59pm on Tuesday, 10 November 2026.

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.

An inclusive, culturally safe 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 ***************@deeca.vic.gov.au.