Yoorrook Justice Commission is the first formal truth-telling process into injustices experienced by First Peoples in Victoria. Yoorrook has been established as an independent Royal Commission under the Inquiries Act 2014. See here the Letters Patent that set out Yoorrook’s mandate.

This senior role within Yoorrook’s Legal, Policy and Research team will be the team’s project lead for the land justice workstream.

With extensive senior experience in First Peoples justice issues and specifically land justice issues (including native title and traditional owner settlement legislation) you will provide strategic policy advice to the Commissioners and the Executive on land justice and other inquiry issues; lead the drafting of Land Justice Issues Papers and final report content and develop options to support Yoorrook’s recommendations for systemic reform.

This is a fixed-term role until 31 December 2024. The Yoorrook Justice Commission will run until June 2025 after being granted a 12-month extension by the Victorian government. The final six months of Yoorrook's operations will aim to ensure that the stories and truths shared by First Peoples are not only recorded but understood by all Victorians.

ABOUT YOU

You will have significant experience in evidence-based law and policy reform and be used to collaborating with others to achieve practical outcomes. You must have extensive senior experience in First Nations justice issues and specifically land justice issues (including native title and traditional owner settlement legislation). You must have prior experience in delivering projects under time pressure in a complex and sensitive environment.

You will be outcomes focused, an exceptional writer and communicator; someone who thrives on a challenge and is passionate about truth and justice for First Peoples in Victoria.

The role requires awareness and understanding of the history and culture of First Peoples in Victoria, a demonstrated understanding of government and legal processes affecting First Peoples. Successful candidates will also have an ability to work in a complex, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed and fast paced environment, with demonstrated research, analytical and communication skills with an ability to work cooperatively. You will ensure all content is culturally informed, upholds the highest editorial standards and adheres to Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles including through managing the content consent process.

How to Apply

Applications should include:

• A resume; and
• A cover letter which addresses the key selection criteria as found in the position description (within two pages).
• Links to examples of previous work, if applicable

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Dr Simone Gristwood, Manager – Research and Policy on [email protected] using the subject line: Principal Policy Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs.

OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION

Yoorrook’s Letters Patent requires it to prioritise the employment of First Peoples. First Peoples are strongly encouraged to apply for this role.

Yoorrook actively promotes diversity, inclusion and an equal opportunity workplace. We welcome applicants from all diverse backgrounds, including people who identify as LGBQTI+, people with disabilities and those from culturally and linguistically different backgrounds.

All roles at Yoorrook can be worked flexibly, however it may differ from role to role. Yoorrook is open to secondments within the Victorian Public Service or from other relevant organisations.

Preferred candidates may be required to complete a Pre-employment Declaration and Consent Form. Employment of successful candidates may be subject to a National Police Check.

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia. As an authorised provider, Yoorrook is required to comply with the State Government’s mandatory Vaccination policy for Covid-19.

A position description is attached.