Aboriginal Elder

Federation University Australia seeks an Aboriginal Elder to support students in the Mumgu-dhal tyama-tiyt program within prison education sites. The role involves organizing cultural workshops, building community relationships, and developing culturally relevant programs. Applicants must be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and have experience mentoring youth in challenging environments. The position is full-time or part-time, commencing on July 1, 2025, and is not a remote job.
Supporting students engaged in the Mumgu-dhal tyama-tiyt program within prison education sites.
• Federation TAFE – Barwon Southwest and Grampians Region Prisons
• Full-time or part-time, continuing appointment commencing 1 July 2025
• HEW 8 - $109,300 p.a. plus up to 17% superannuation

Position closing date: 13/04/2025

Ranked number one university in Australia for First Generation Student Enrolments (Good Universities Guide 2022) and with top rankings in Victoria around student support, social equity, skills and employment, we are driven to make difference to every student and the community providing lifelong learning, skills, and research locally, regionally, and globally.

With University and TAFE campuses in Ballarat, Berwick, Gippsland, and the Wimmera we are positioned to provide pathways from vocational education and skills training through to higher education.

In accordance with the University’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ Workforce Strategy, Policy and Procedure; and under Special Measures Section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010; the University has designated this position as a targeted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ position.

Only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People can apply.

About the role

Foster cultural empowerment and share cultural knowledge with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students across our locations. The Aboriginal Elder will primarily focus on supporting students engaged in the Mumgu-dhal tyama-tiyt program which operates within prison education sites and involves working with incarcerated individuals.

You will:
• organise and lead cultural workshops, storytelling sessions, and other activities that promote cultural heritage and knowledge within the prison education context;
• build and maintain relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the Grampians and Barwon regions ensuring cultural protocols, practices and knowledge are respected and incorporated into the university’s programs;
• liaise between the University, Aboriginal Education Centre, prison authorities, and local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities, Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee, facilitating mutual understanding; and
• develop and implement culturally relevant policies, resources and programs tailored to the needs of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students within the prison system.

About you

You will have demonstrated experience in mentoring and supporting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander youth and students, particularly within challenging environments such as prisons.

You will possess demonstrated:
• strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse groups;
• flexibility and adaptabity, with the ability to work across different regions and communities, including prison settings;
• ability in designing and delivering culturally appropriate content;
• ability to effectively utilise online learning platforms and technologies; and
• communication and interpersonal skills, including ability to negotiate and provide guidance and mentoring.

All University positions delivering education and/or services to children must hold a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC). Please refer to the position description for WWCC requirements.

How to apply

Please apply by Sunday, 13 April 2025.

Interviews will be held in the week commencing 28 April 2025.

Applicants are required to submit a resume and a suitability statement not to exceed two pages.

Federation University is committed to The Circle Back Initiative program, whereby we will respond to every applicant.

If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application, please email the Recruitment team or phone 03 5327 9756. Our position descriptions also list a contact person for job specific inquiries.