POSITION DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Program Lead – Capacity Building
LOCATION: Warrnambool, Victoria
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: 1.0 FTE, 12 months, Full-time
SALARY: $101,650 to $111,800 per annum + super
REPORTS TO: General Manager, Mana Developments
IDENTIFICATION: Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged, but this is not a designated/identified Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander appointment.
THE ORGANISATION
The Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) requires that, following a native title determination, native title holders establish a Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) to manage and protect their rights and interests. These corporations must incorporate under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act) and register with the National Native Title Tribunal (NNTT). Once registered, they become a Registered Native Title Body Corporate (RNTBC).
Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) was established in 2011 as a PBC following a positive consent determination by the Federal Court, covering an area known as PART B—from Deen Maar (Lady Julia Percy Island) to Dunkeld—shared with the Western Gunditjmara People, represented by Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.
In 2023, a second determination expanded EMAC’s jurisdiction from Yambuk to Aireys Inlet, reaching Middle Creek and Ararat, and looping south to Dunkeld.
EMAC is a formally recognised Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP), with responsibilities for protecting and managing cultural heritage across a broader area extending to Winchelsea and Landsborough.
As the representative body for Eastern Maar citizens, EMAC leads the advancement of native title rights and interests, cultural heritage protection, high-quality policy advice, and initiatives aligned with the inherent rights, aspirations, and independence of its people.
Who we are looking for
Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) is seeking a Program Lead – Capacity Building to deliver strategic, culturally aligned programs that build the capability of Eastern Maar citizens, community, and Mana Developments.
This role leads the development and implementation of capacity-building initiatives that strengthen community participation, economic independence, and cultural leadership as outlined in Meerreengeeye Ngakeepoorryeeyt – the Eastern Maar Country Plan.
What you'll be doing
On a day-to-day basis:, you will:
- Manage a portfolio of capacity-building initiatives and projects aligned with the Mana Developments Strategic Plan.
- Engage with EMAC staff, Eastern Maar community members, government agencies, and external partners to co-design programs.
- Lead development and implementation of programs that strengthen community capacity, including delivering training or workshops where required.
- Prepare and manage service contracts, project budgets, and consultant engagement.
- Complete funding reports and provide updates to internal and external stakeholders.
- Prepare funding submissions and secure new funding streams for capacity-building programs.
- Support continuous improvement and organisational development initiatives.
- Develop policy, procedures, and supporting documents for recent services and programs.
- Ensure work aligns with community priorities, cultural values, and EMAC strategies.
- Work autonomously and within a multidisciplinary team environment.
What you’ll bring
We’re looking for someone who has:
- A degree in Business, Community Development, or a related discipline.
- Strong project management skills across complex program areas.
- Experience in business development or community capacity building.
- Ability to analyse market and community research to develop program plans.
- Proven experience launching or scaling programs or services.
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Ability to prepare high-quality reports for diverse audiences.
- Capacity to build strong relationships and lead collaborative projects.
- Ability to work in dynamic, evolving environments.
- Culturally respectful communication and engagement skills. Commitment to culturally safe engagement with Eastern Maar citizens and Aboriginal communities. Commitment to and appreciation of Eastern Maar culture, values, and heritage.
- Ability to work respectfully and sensitively with Eastern Maar Citizens and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities.
Other requirements include:
- Holder of a Working with Children Check
- Holder of a Current Victorian Driver’s Licence.
- Undertaken a National Police Check for Employment Purposes within the last 3 months
For further details, read the full position description available https://easternmaar.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/program-lead-capacity-building.pdf
Working with EMAC – Our offer to you
At EMAC, we are committed to fostering a supportive, culturally safe, and empowering work environment. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:
- Flexible hybrid working arrangements available
- Salary packaging benefits in accordance with the ATO-approved rates for Public Benevolent Institutions. Currently up to $15,900 + Meal/Entertainment benefits up to $2,650 per year.
- Paid Christmas break in addition to 4 weeks' annual leave
- Employee Assistance Program
- A friendly and supportive culture
- Professional development opportunities.
How can you apply
Applications close: Sunday, 30 November 2025 at 11:59 PM.
To apply, please send:
- Your resume, outlining your employment history, qualifications, and achievements.
- A cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria, highlighting your skills and experience.
Send your application to: Ms Bansri Dave, HR Officer – ***********@easternmaar.com.au
If you have any questions about the role, please email Ms Bansri Dave, HR Officer, at ***********@easternmaar.com.au
Read a full description of the position at https://easternmaar.com.au/program-lead-business-development-2511/