Who we are

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation (NATSIEC) evolved from the more than 40 years of continued educational sector engagement and collective leadership of the six state and two territory Indigenous Education Consultative Bodies (IECBs - sometimes also referred to as Aboriginal Education Consultative Groups). NATSIEC incorporated under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 in August 2023, and we are guided by our Board of Directors.

As the peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, NATSIEC continues a tradition of strong community-based consultative voices to government, and delivers community-informed, independent, evidence-based advocacy and advice to Australian governments. We focus on education policies and programs of national importance and ensure there is a national community-controlled education voice in Closing the Gap efforts. Our engagement with the education sector spans all stages of learning, including early childhood education, primary and secondary schooling, vocational education and training, and higher education.

Our purpose and what we do

NATSIEC serves as a national voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education and training, advocating for policies and practices that ensure high-quality education for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, students and learners. Our policy, advocacy, and research work, as well as our strong community networks, ensure that we provide evidence-based and community-informed advice to governments, ministers and other key stakeholders on strategies, programs, policies and other matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education and training.

NATSIEC plays a role in building capacity within the education sector to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners are supported and empowered to achieve their full potential through learning environments that reflect their aspirations, culture, and right to self-determination.

We engage with governments at all levels, educational institutions, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and other stakeholders to transform education systems in order to support better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners.

About the role

The Communications, Media and Public Engagement Lead plays a pivotal role in shaping NATSIEC's public image and ensuring effective communication with key stakeholders. This is a high-impact, outward-facing role suited to a strategic thinker with outstanding communication skills, a sophisticated understanding of media ecosystems, and strong cultural capability.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Advice: Provide expert advice to the CEO and Board on matters relating to public communications and media strategy.
• Strategic Planning: Lead the development, implementation and monitoring of a comprehensive communications and engagement strategy aligned with NATSIEC’s objectives.
• Media Management: Oversee media presence to enhance visibility and influence, including media content creation, cross-platform monitoring, speech writing, stakeholder engagement, and oversight of any agency partnerships.
• Digital Platforms: Manage and evaluate the performance of NATSIEC’s website and social media channels to ensure strong digital engagement.
• Brand Development: Contribute to the development, protection and evolution of NATSIEC’s visual identity and public narrative.
• Event Management: Plan and support key NATSIEC events and initiatives, working closely with internal teams and member organisations.

The ideal candidate

Essential:

• The filling of this position is intended to constitute a special/equal opportunity measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth). The position is therefore only open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, networks, and the education and training issues affecting communities.
• Qualifications in communications, media, journalism, or public relations - or equivalent experience.
• At least 5 years’ experience in communications and media strategy, ideally within the non-profit and/or Aboriginal community-controlled sector.
• Strong understanding of media systems, digital trends, and Australian media law.
• Exceptional writing, editing and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a small, fast-paced team.
• Proven experience communicating effectively with First Nations people, government staff, peak bodies and a broad range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated project management and coordination skills with the ability to deliver impactful messages across various communication channels.
• Proficiency in key software such as Microsoft and Adobe Suites, Square Space, Canva, Meltwater, and/or Google AdWords.
• Willingness to travel, including interstate.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of current Commonwealth and state/territory priorities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education.
• Insight into how government systems impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, or the ability to develop this insight through critical analysis and engagement with community and policy.
• Existing networks across Aboriginal, independent, public, and mainstream media.

Essential Pre-Employment Requirements:

• Working with Children Card
• National Police Clearance
• Drivers Licence
• Reference Checks

We encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all of the criteria! This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia. 

What we offer

At NATSIEC, we are building a workplace that is safe, inclusive and grounded in respect. We know that our people do their best work when they feel supported, so we are committed to flexible working arrangements, opportunities for growth and professional learning, and a positive, connected team culture. This is a full-time role with a competitive salary and space to shape meaningful work in a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education context.

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Please complete this application form, along with the further instructions provided once you click Apply Now.