About the Treaty Authority

The Treaty Authority is a new independent entity with a mandate to facilitate the formation of treaties between the State of Victoria and First Peoples in Victoria.

The Authority’s work is grounded in Aboriginal culture, lore and law and led collectively by a panel of five Members committed to Aboriginal self-determination and empowerment. It engages with a broad cross-section of stakeholders including the State of Victoria, the First Peoples’ Assembly and Traditional Owners in Victoria.

The objects of the Authority’s work are to:

• Facilitate the journey towards reconciliation, mutual respect and tolerance between First Peoples and other people of the State and to

• Maintain, promote and advance the self-determination and empowerment, culture and human rights of First Peoples.

About the Role

The Treaty Authority has an opportunity for an experienced Senior Policy Advisor to develop solutions-focussed policy advice, manage and lead projects and develop briefs on highly complex issues to the Treaty Authority Members and CEO.

This role is an integral part of the Agreement-Making team that supports the Treaty Authority Members to administer the Treaty Negotiation Framework, facilitate and oversee Treaty negotiations and resolve disputes. Reporting to the Policy Manager, this role will provide information and support directly to First Peoples engaged in the Treaty process and advise Members on the proper administration of the Treaty Negotiation Framework in a legally compliant and culturally strong way.

The successful candidate will thrive in this dynamic environment, display a strong work ethic and be proactive about being part of the reform to benefit First Nations peoples in Victoria.

Key Duties

• Under limited supervision, develop advanced solutions-focussed policy options, analysis monitoring and advice under the Treaty Negotiation Framework.
• Conduct and present detailed research on policy and Treaty-related matters including the development of information and decision briefs.
• Simplify and synthesise complex information and communicate into workable, legally compliant and culturally strong policy frameworks.
• Administer the internal systems for discharging the Treaty Authority’s obligations under the Treaty Negotiation Framework.
• Anticipate and identify policy issues and undertake research, analysis and forecasting to conceptualise solutions.
• Manage and lead projects within the Agreement-Making team as required.
• Maintain an awareness of best practice and an understanding of risks related to the Treaty process, including identifying emerging issues, opportunities, risks and trends.
• Under limited supervision, formulate continuous improvement of internal procedures, policies, and external guidance in accordance with the Treaty Authority’s legal and compliance framework, Member guidance and best practice.
• Consult and maintain trusting relationships with Traditional Owner groups, peers and other senior internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide support and information to Traditional Owner groups in the Treaty process, with a focus on understanding their issues and applying the Treaty Negotiation Framework.

Selection Criteria

• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline.
• Proven experience in areas such as Indigenous legal issues, dispute resolution, administration of legal frameworks and/or human rights.
• Demonstrated knowledge of First Peoples policy and practice.
• Essential skills in briefing and policy submission and report writing with a demonstrated depth of experience in the development, formulation, research, planning, implementation and evaluation of complex policy.
• Proven project management and organisational expertise with the ability to work independently with advanced conceptual, analytical and decision-making skills.
• Ability to research and communicate complex issues effectively in simple accessible language, both written and verbal.
• Anticipate needs, be results-driven and work within tight timeframes in what is a dynamic and fast-paced role and environment.
• Knowledge and experience working with Aboriginal communities and organisations in Victoria.
• Passionate about being part of a reform to benefit First Nations peoples in Victoria.
• Able to meet an ongoing requirement to travel and work across Victoria (both metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria) on a regular basis. You will need a valid driver’s licence.

This is a full-time permanent role, based at our offices in Collingwood.

This position is commensurate with a VPS5 range of $106,500 - $128,897 plus super, depending on the successful applicant’s experience.

This position is open to everyone, however the nature of the Treaty Authority’s work means we strongly encourage First Peoples to apply.

If you feel you could contribute well in this role, please click "Apply Now" and submit a copy of your resume along with a brief cover letter explaining why you are interested in this opportunity via the form below.