Step into a Service Area Leadership role where strategy, governance and community-led development come together. At the Northern Land Council (NLC), you will lead high-impact planning and development initiatives that support Aboriginal self-determination and deliver lasting social, cultural, environmental and economic outcomes across the Top End.
About the Role
As the Community Planning & Development Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the NLC’s CP&D Program, driving continuous improvement in service quality, governance practice and development outcomes.
The key duties of the position include:
You will lead a multidisciplinary team delivering participatory planning, advocacy, governance strengthening and project management support to Aboriginal groups, ensuring programs are culturally grounded, evidence-based and aligned with community aspirations.
This role plays a critical part in shaping development pathways that are community-led, well-governed and sustainable, while ensuring strong accountability, risk management and performance across a diverse project portfolio.
Eligibility
What You Will Bring
You are a seasoned CP&D professional with a strong grounding in community development theory and practice, combined with the leadership capability to operate in complex, cross-cultural environments. You bring a strategic mindset, sound judgement and a commitment to supporting Aboriginal people to plan, decide and drive their own development outcomes.
You are confident leading teams, managing complex programs and budgets, and working alongside Traditional Owners, government partners and service providers to translate community priorities into deliverable outcomes.
In addition, you will have:
· A minimum of five (5) years’ experience managing community-based development or planning projects
· At least three (3) years’ senior leadership experience, including staff supervision and program oversight
· Demonstrated experience working in culturally responsive and participatory development contexts, ideally within Aboriginal, First Nations or international development settings
· Professional understanding of governance, decision-making frameworks, negotiations and agreement-making
· Proven ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on delivery and stakeholder engagement
For a full copy of the Position Description and essential requirements refer to NLC website link
Notes
Why Join the NLC?
At the NLC, you will work at the intersection of community aspiration, governance and development practice. Our CP&D program supports Aboriginal groups to strengthen decision-making, manage resources effectively and pursue development on their own terms.
You will be part of an organisation that values cultural authority, evidence-based practice and long-term impact—while supporting your professional growth in a senior, influential leadership role.
What’s in it for you?
This role offers a rare opportunity to lead community-driven development at scale. You will see strategic planning translate into tangible outcomes, support Aboriginal governance and capacity-building, and mentor a committed team delivering meaningful work across the Northern Territory.
We offer:
* Annual salary of $160,000 plus 15% superannuation
* Salary packaging benefits up to $15,900 plus meal entertainment
* 5 weeks annual leave, 18 days personal leave and paid Christmas shutdown
Be part of something bigger—where your leadership helps promote strong communities and lasting change.
Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their interest and relevant experience.
If you have any further queries, please contact: - Paul Donohoe - mobile ***
Special Measures
This vacancy is an Aboriginal prioritised position. Eligible Aboriginal applicants will be given priority consideration under the Special Measures provisions of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1992 (NT).
Applications Close: Wednesday 11 February 2026
Applications will be assessed on receipt. The NLC reserves the right to progress the appointment prior to the closing date.
About the NLC:
The Northern Land Council (NLC) is an independent statutory authority established under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976. We serve Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people across the Top End, supporting land, sea, culture and community aspirations through strong governance and culturally informed practice.