Head of Collections & Engagement (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander)
This is an identified role under section 14(d) of the Anti‑Discrimination Act (NSW).
About the organisation
The Australian Museum (AM) is Australia's first museum, located on Gadigal Country in central Sydney. More than a leading attraction, the AM is a place of stories, culture, science and learning – home to more than 22 million objects and specimens.
The AM's mission is to ignite wonder, inspire debate and drive change. Its vision is to be a leading voice for the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific, with a strong commitment to First Nations leadership, climate action and wildlife conservation. The AM is part of the Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport (CITHS) and offers meaningful, secure public sector employment with a strong focus on professional development, flexibility and staff wellbeing.
About the role
You will lead the First Nations Collections & Engagement team within the First Nations Division, guiding how the Museum cares for, connects with and activates its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage collections.
Reporting to the Director, First Nations, you will oversee Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and archaeology collections, supported in daily operations by the Senior Collection Officer. You will lead community engagement projects, ensure culturally safe access across multiple sites and support the development of First Nations collections strategies, policies and ICIP protocols.
A major focus is maintaining strong, respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Elders and knowledge holders, while working collaboratively across the Museum and with external partners to ensure First Nations self‑determination, cultural authority and community priorities remain central.
You will also support the Director, First Nations, to establish the proposed Cultural Collections & Research Centre and contribute to strategic partnerships and fundraising for First Nations‑led initiatives.
About you
You are a leader with deep cultural knowledge and strong community connections, with experience working with First Nations communities and cultural heritage in museums, galleries, community organisations, government or other settings, and you are confident operating at a senior level.
You navigate both community and institutional spaces with ease. You bring people together, listen deeply and advocate for First Nations priorities in practical, solutions‑focused ways. You mentor your team, lead with integrity and are confident managing complex projects, relationships and expectations. Above all, you are committed to First Nations self‑determination and to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural objects, stories and knowledges are cared for, protected and shared in culturally respectful ways.
Key Selection Criteria
* Relevant qualifications and / or lived experience across Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage, community engagement, museums / galleries, project work or similar fields.
* Proven senior leadership experience, including guiding teams, managing priorities and supporting staff wellbeing.
* Strong experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Elders and knowledge holders, with the ability to build trust and lead respectful consultation.
* Solid project and programme management capability, including planning, budgeting, contracting and risk management.
* High‑level communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear reports, briefings and represent the organisation confidently.
Commitment and Remuneration
Hours: 35 hours per week | Location: Sydney NSW (Gadigal Country) | Classification: Clerk Grade | NSW Public Sector.
How to apply
All applications must include the following: a pitch (maximum 2 pages) outlining your motivations for applying and how your skills, experience and cultural knowledge align to this opportunity.
Applications should be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website and close 11:59 PM on Monday 22 December. Unfortunately, late applications will not be accepted.
Want to know more?
For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact: Senior Recruitment Consultant PH.
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