Project Manager, First Nations (Identified)
Join us at the Australian Museum and help us to achieve our Mission to ignite wonder, inspire debate and drive change.
About the Project
The Australian Museum is delivering a suite of significant First Nations initiatives aligned to its Corporate Strategic Plan and Reconciliation Action Plan. Key projects include a new permanent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander exhibition, implementation of the AM Reconciliation Action Plan, and development of a business case for a future Cultural Collections & Research Centre.
These projects are guided by Indigenous Cultural & Intellectual Property (ICIP) principles and cultural protocols and are delivered in close partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, artists and cultural advisors. Together, they represent a transformational program of work that strengthens cultural integrity, deepens community engagement, and delivers lasting social and cultural impact.
About the Role
The Project Manager, First Nations will manage and deliver projects in line with the Australian Museum’s Corporate Strategic Plan and AM Reconciliation Action Plan. This role will provide project management expertise with critical logistical and administrative support to the Lead, Major Projects, First Nations to ensure the smooth execution of First Nations strategic initiatives and projects.
The role operates to high museum operational standards, applying Indigenous Cultural & Intellectual Property (ICIP) principles and cultural protocols throughout all work. Responsibilities include overseeing operational, logistical, and administrative aspects of projects, including budgets, procurement, ICIP consent agreements and licensing, servicing contracts, contracts management, and coordination of contractors and project contributors (which may require work outside standard AM business hours).
Employment Status:
* Clerk Grade 9/10
* Fixed Term until 30th June 2028
* Full Time 35 hours per week
You will be paid a competitive total remuneration package of $146,941 - $161,924, including an annual salary of $129,464 - $142,665, plus employer's contribution to superannuation (currently 12%) and annual leave loading.
Click on the following links to begin the journey to find your new career at the AM:
* Role Description
* AM Candidate Pack
About you
The role-holder builds trusted relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders (such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, artists, practitioners, and cultural advisors).
Success requires high cultural competency and extensive project management experience, including exhibition production, procurement processes, budget management, and curatorial work.
Knowledge and Experience
* Ability and willingness to understand and apply culturally appropriate collection and research practices, cultural awareness, and terminology to perform in processes that are culturally aware and appropriate. This includes the capacity to embed ICIP into work and research practice.
* A driven and experienced cultural heritage specialist; Experience working in museums and assisting on the development and delivery of exhibitions.
* Proven ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and community consultation/engagement processes (especially with Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and/or Pasifika communities), with deep understanding of cultural protocols, ICIP principles, and culturally appropriate consultation methodologies.
* Strong project management skills with demonstrated ability to manage budgets, timelines, multiple concurrent projects, and diverse teams to deliver quality outcomes.
* A high level of organisational skills and an understanding of financial, technological, procurement, contract, and project management requirements.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to prepare high-quality content for diverse audiences.
Essential Requirements
* Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and/or Pasifika descent. Aboriginality/Torres Strait Islander is a genuine occupational qualification and is authorised under section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW). Pasifika descent is recognised under the Act within the definition of race, which includes descent and ethnic origin (section 4, Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW)).
* Appropriate and relevant tertiary qualifications at minimum Honours level in fields relating to Museum and Heritage Studies, or relevant equivalent professional practice and experience. Postgraduate qualifications (completed or in progress) are desirable.
About the Australian Museum
The Australian Museum is truly a great place to work. We aim to be a leading voice for the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific. We commit to transform the conversation around climate change, the environment and wildlife conservation; be a strong advocate for First Nations’ culture; and continue to develop world-leading science, collections, exhibitions and education programs.
The Australian Museum acknowledges that we operate on the lands, waters and skies of many First Nations Peoples. As Australia’s first museum, we share the responsibility of advocating for Country and honouring First Nations Peoples and knowledges.
Check out our current exhibitions and events here
Benefits
Besides working together with other like-minded people, you will have access to professional development opportunities and dedicated Wellbeing programs.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit:
* A one to two page covering letter which address the role descriptions essential requirements, key knowledge and experience.
* Resume
As part of the online application process, you will be prompted to answer the following targeted questions:
* Describe a time you worked on projects with competing deadlines. How did you manage budgets, timelines, and governance requirements? What project delivery challenges arose, and how did you overcome them? (300 words maximum)
* Describe a complex museum, cultural, or heritage project you managed. How did you build relationships and coordinate with diverse stakeholders? What stakeholder challenges arose and how did you address them? (300 words maximum)
The successful candidate applicant will be subject to national criminal records check. As recommended by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), the Australian Museum encourages all applicants who can be safely vaccinated for COVID-19, to be so.
Contact person: Trevor Ahearn, Lead, Major Projects, First Nations,
Inclusive and Welcoming
The Australian Museum is committed to building a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from First Nations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The AM is a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued, respected and supported to thrive. We are committed to embedding diversity and inclusion in everything we do—from our recruitment practices and workplace culture to our career development programs and day-to-day operations.
If you require adjustments to the recruitment process, please contact the hiring manager or note your requirements in your application. This may include providing information in alternative formats, accessible interview locations, or additional time for assessments.Next
Applications close: 10:00AM ,11 March 2026