* Ongoing & Non-ongoing for an initial period of up to 12 months, Flexible working arrangements will be considered
* EL 1
* Darwin, NT preferred (However other NIAA office locations will be considered)
* Location: Darwin, NT preferred (However other NIAA office locations will be considered)
* Application Closing Date: 01-Feb-2026
Classification
Executive Level 1 ($126,342 - $143,993)
Employment Type
Ongoing & Non-ongoing (for an initial period of up to 12 months)
This role is being advertised as both ongoing and non-ongoing, with the employment type to be determined in negotiation with the preferred candidate and the NIAA delegate.
Where a non-ongoing specified term is offered, this would be for an initial period of up to 12 months, with possibility of extension up to a maximum period of two years.
A non-ongoing offer may result in conversion to an ongoing offer of employment, however this must occur within 18 months from the opening date of this advertisement.
Flexible Work
Flexible working arrangements will be considered
The Opportunity
The branch's work program involves delivering a range of regional strategies and priorities across Arnhem Land and Groote Eylandt in alignment with national Closing the Gap targets, self-determination and economic development while fostering strong partnerships with First Nations communities and stakeholders. As an EL1, Assistant Director you will operate with a high level of independence under the broad supervision and direction of the Director. You will be expected to lead the planning and delivery of selected aspects of the branch's work program, ensuring performance measures are met and reporting on progress against key indicators.
This role is critical in shaping strategic priorities, driving improvement initiatives, and strengthening partnerships that advance outcomes for First Nations Australians. This role may include some or all of the following duties:
* provide leadership and guidance to staff to deliver branch outcomes aligned with NIAA's strategic priorities
* analyse and provide a regional perspective informing national procedures, programs, policy, including a detailed analysis of diverse data and views where there are a range of viable options
* promote the NIAA's business objectives through key strategic relationships
* maintain and effectively manage excellent stakeholder relationships with internal and external partners, individuals, service providers and First Nations communities
* provide advice and support on complex grant processes, including feedback on draft guidelines, assessment of application and management of key contracts
* work with internal teams to develop policy, implement programs, and ensure government partner priorities are reflected in outcomes
* drive outcomes that align with the aspirations of First Nations communities and lead staff to deliver the NIAA's work program within the Agency's Key Performance Measures, quality indicators and risk frameworks
* prepare high-quality briefs, reports, and recommendations for senior executives and governance committees
* create a culturally safe workplace by fostering an environment where the concept of culture, and how it influences the workplace, is understood
* guide the implementation of culturally appropriate strategies for working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds
* identify and develop talent, support staff through coaching and mentoring, and model accountability for performance.
Our Ideal Candidate
We are seeking a highly motivated, passionate and experienced leader who can operate with independence and sound judgment in a complex and dynamic environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
* proven ability to lead teams, deliver outcomes, and drive innovation
* capacity to manage competing priorities and implement change effectively
* ability to provide expert policy advice and resolve complex issues
* skilled in risk assessment and management, with a focus on quality outcomes
* strategic thinking that considers broader agency objectives and implications
* exceptional communication and negotiation skills to build and maintain relationships
* experience representing an agency in cross-government forums and managing sensitive issues
* ability to influence and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to achieve shared goals
* deep understanding of the APS operating environment and government decision-making processes
* commitment to continuous improvement and business innovation
* high-level analytical and problem-solving skills to manage complex challenges.
Identified Position
This position is Identified which signifies that the role has strong involvement in matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This position has direct engagement with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and service providers, or is involved in the development of programmes and policy. You will require a high level of cultural competency, including:
* demonstrated understanding of the matters impacting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
* demonstrated high level ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
* demonstrated high level capability and commitment to continue to develop cultural competency.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this position you must be an Australian Citizen.
The successful candidate will be required to be assessed through our pre-employment screening checks, such as an Australian Criminal History Check.
Security Clearance Required
Baseline Vetting (Protected)
Contact Officer
Mark Hautop on or
Please Note – This is an unclassified web based recruitment system so your application must not contain any classified or sensitive information. This includes in your one page pitch and resume.