Purpose of the Position
-The First Peoples Engagement Coordinator will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies and frameworks to foster positive, authentic and constructive relationships, facilitate communication and enhance engagement between the Authority, Traditional Owners and people who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander within the Great Ocean Road Region, supporting Rights Holders.
-This role aims to promote cultural understanding, build and strengthen partnerships and contribute to the advancement of reconciliation, respect, and mutual benefit.
-This position will be key in developing and implementing an organisational framework to guide how GORCAPA will work in partnership with Traditional Owners to protect the Great Ocean Road coast and parks, recognising and supporting Traditional Owner rights and interests.
Key Accountabilities
Stakeholder Engagement
• Develop an organisational framework to guide how the Authority will work in partnership with Traditional Owners to protect the Great Ocean Road coast and parks, recognising and supporting Traditional Owner rights and interests.
• Develop a strategic and coordinated approach to working with Traditional Owners to strengthen collaboration, understanding and partnerships.
• Work closely with other government agencies, non-government organisations, industry partners and others to promote collaborative initiatives.
Engagement & Strategic Thinking
• Facilitate engagement processes for key strategic planning projects including Coastal and Marine Management Plan, Coastal Adaptation Planning projects, key major capital works projects and other programs and projects as required.
• Lead and support the implementation of the Enable Fulfilment of First Peoples’ Rights theme of the Authority’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and Annual Corporate Plan.
Reconciliation and Advocacy
• Advocate for and build organisational knowledge of the way the Victorian Government recognises and supports enabling Traditional Owner rights and self-determination of the Aboriginal community more broadly, including the
Cultural Competency and Training
• Support the development and delivery of cultural competency training programs for staff to enhance understanding and sensitivity when working with First Peoples communities.
• Provide guidance on appropriate language usage, cultural protocols and engagement practices.
About the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority
The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is the dedicated Victorian Government entity entrusted with the care, protection and sustainable management of one of Australia’s most breathtaking and culturally significant coastal regions. Established under the Great Ocean Road and Environs Protection Act 2020, the Authority was created to address the complex and fragmented management of the coastline and ensure the long-term conservation of this iconic landscape.
GORCAPA is responsible for managing more than 170,000 hectares of coastal reserves, National Parks, Marine Sanctuaries and foreshores stretching along 355 kilometres of stunning coastline. This includes high-profile sites such as the Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Precinct and Cape Otway Lightstation, as well as local ports, community reserves and critical marine environments.
At the heart of its work is a commitment to protect the unique environmental, cultural, heritage and community values of the region. GORCAPA partners deeply with Traditional Owners, local communities and stakeholders to integrate cultural knowledge, ensure environmental stewardship, support sustainable visitation and build lasting benefits for regional economies and generations to come.
What we're looking for?
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A sound understanding of Aboriginal community dynamics and protocols and the management of sensitive information.
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Qualification and relevant experience in Indigenous studies, social sciences, community development, strategy, policy development or related discipline.
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Demonstrated experience in building positive relationships with key stakeholders within private and government sectors and members of the public including Indigenous communities.
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Experience and knowledge in the development of policy, programs and projects and ability to use these skills in the context of coast and parks and land management and Traditional Owner policy development and/or implementation (desirable).
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Understanding of Native Title Act (Cth) 1993, Traditional Owner Settlement Act (Vic) 2010, Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act (Vic) 2006
About you?
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage sensitively, clearly and effectively with Traditional Owners and a wide range of stakeholders.
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Strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills, including the capability to develop cultural understanding and maintain respectful, trust‑based relationships with Aboriginal people.
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Proven ability to navigate challenging conversations, facilitate dialogue among diverse groups, problem‑solve and manage conflict constructively.
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Highly organised and proactive, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain forward planning.
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Experience collecting, collating and analysing data to support reporting, evaluation and informed decision‑making.