• Two Positions | Two-year term with 12-month extension options | Australia Based
  

This is an Indigenous Identified role only open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The filling of this position is intended to constitute a special measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth), and s 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA). Applicants will be required to provide confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent as part of the recruitment process.

About the organisation

The Indigenous Peoples Economic and Trade Cooperation Arrangement (IPETCA) is an Indigenous-led, government-enabled platform that seeks to advance Indigenous economic empowerment, enhance trade and investment opportunities for Indigenous Peoples, and strengthen regional economic cooperation to support Indigenous interests.

IPETCA works to expand business networks and opportunities for Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs across the region, including Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), Indigenous women and Indigenous youth. Through collaboration between Indigenous leaders and participating governments, IPETCA aims to remove barriers to participation in international trade and create meaningful economic opportunities for Indigenous communities.

About the role

The Partnership Council is the primary decision-making body responsible for overseeing the implementation of IPETCA and guiding its strategic direction. Working alongside Australian Government representatives, the appointed Indigenous representatives will contribute to the development and delivery of the IPETCA work program, helping to identify priorities, facilitate activities and advance opportunities for Indigenous businesses and communities.

This is a unique opportunity to influence international trade and economic policy while ensuring Indigenous voices, perspectives and priorities remain central to regional economic cooperation initiatives.

Workload will vary throughout the year, with higher levels of engagement expected in the lead-up to and during Partnership Council meetings, which are held four times annually. International travel may be required as part of the role.

The position is an advisory role and remuneration will be paid on an hourly, or daily, basis in accordance with the rates of the Indigenous Advisory Committee established by the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, Remuneration Tribunal (Remuneration and Allowances for Holders of Part-time Public Office) Determination 2025 Compilation No. 5.

For a full list of responsibilities associated with this role, please contact Pipeline Talent via [email protected] using the subject line: Australian Indigenous Representatives x2 - Indigenous Peoples Economic and Trade Cooperation Arrangement enquiry via EthicalJobs.

About you

You are a respected Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander leader with a demonstrated commitment to advancing Indigenous economic empowerment and creating opportunities for Indigenous peoples and businesses.

You bring strong community standing, cultural authority and the ability to represent Indigenous interests with confidence and integrity. You have experience engaging with diverse stakeholders and are passionate about identifying and addressing barriers to Indigenous participation in international trade, investment and economic development.

Ideally, you have experience in international trade, investment, economic development, business leadership or related fields, along with the ability to contribute strategically to discussions that shape economic outcomes for Indigenous peoples.

Most importantly, you are committed to strengthening Indigenous prosperity, supporting Indigenous businesses and ensuring Indigenous perspectives are represented at both national and international levels.

Selection Criteria

1. Strong cultural knowledge, community standing and a demonstrated commitment to advancing Indigenous economic empowerment.
2. Demonstrated leadership experience within Indigenous communities, organisations, businesses or representative bodies.
3. Strong understanding of Indigenous economic development, including the opportunities and challenges facing Indigenous peoples and businesses.
4. Experience in international trade, investment, economic development, business leadership or related sectors, with the ability to contribute strategically to policy, advisory or governance discussions.
5. Demonstrated ability to engage with and represent Indigenous peoples in national and/or international forums.
6. Strong stakeholder engagement, relationship management, collaboration, communication and advocacy skills, including the ability to represent Indigenous interests effectively.

What we can offer you

• Opportunity to represent Australia in a significant international Indigenous economic cooperation initiative.
• Influence the future direction of Indigenous trade, investment and economic development across the region.
• Work alongside Indigenous leaders and government representatives from participating economies.
• Contribute to meaningful outcomes for Indigenous businesses, entrepreneurs and communities.

How to Apply

Your application should include:

• A current resume.
• A cover letter responding to the selection criteria and outlining your motivation and suitability for the position.

Applications are to be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website at the Apply Now link.

How to get more information

For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.

Tiana Callaughan

Head of Recruitment

E: [email protected] | [email protected] using the subject line: Australian Indigenous Representatives x2 - Indigenous Peoples Economic and Trade Cooperation Arrangement enquiry via EthicalJobs. PH: 02 8001 6603