National Policy Manager (Indigenous Targeted Position) – Sydney, Melbourne or Adelaide

• Employment Type: Part Time 28-hour week (with potential flexibility to adjust up or down if appropriate for the right candidate)
• Duration:Fixed-term contract until 31 December 2027
• Remuneration: Level 9 from $148012 (full time equivalent) 17% superannuation leave loading
• Location: Work from either Kensington NSW Melbourne or Adelaide
• Cultural Leave (for Indigenous People) and Indigenous Employee Network

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.

Why your role matters
The Culturally Nourishing Schooling (CNS) project is a practice- and research-informed initiative designed to enhance the engagement and educational outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. This collaborative effortbringing together Australian universities local communities and schoolsaims to implement a culturally grounded strengths-based approach that drives whole-school transformation. The project also fosters enduring partnerships between schools and their surrounding communities.

The Culturally Nourishing Schooling (CNS) National Policy Managerplays a pivotal role in shaping education policy to improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across three states and at the Commonwealth level. This strategic position leads policy development advocacy and stakeholder engagement to ensure Indigenous voices are central to national education reform.

Key Responsibilities:
Policy Development and Advocacy

• Lead education policy initiatives across NSW VIC SA and nationally
• Provide strategic advice to CNS to support Indigenous student success
• Engage with Commonwealth departments and agencies
• Monitor and respond to emerging policy opportunities

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Build relationships with Indigenous organisations and peak bodies
• Facilitate community input into policy processes
• Collaborate with families and local groups to inform policy
• Represent CNS in forums and working groups

Strategic Influence and Impact

• Apply strategic thinking to advance CNS objectives
• Participate in high-level discussions with government and Indigenous leaders
• Develop advocacy strategies aligned with CNS goals

Representation and Communication

• Represent CNS at conferences and policy forums
• Deliver presentations to diverse audiences
• Prepare policy submissions briefings and reports
• Build trust through professional stakeholder engagement

About You:
This is a targeted position. While we strongly encourage applications from people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander we also welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Experience and Knowledge

• Proven experience in policy development and advocacy
• Track record of influencing policy at state or national levels
• Understanding of Australian education systems
• Knowledge of Indigenous education issues

Skills and Capabilities

• Exceptional communication and presentation skills
• Strategic planning with demonstrated policy impact
• Strong stakeholder engagement abilities
• Capacity to manage priorities across jurisdictions

Personal Attributes

• Cultural competency and respect for Indigenous perspectives
• Professionalism and integrity
• Reliability and trustworthiness
• Commitment to improving Indigenous education outcomes

The Organisation:
UNSW isnt like other places youve worked. Yes were a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isnt only what we do its how we do it. Together we are driven to be thoughtful practical and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive be challenged and do meaningful work youre in the right place.

Benefits and Culture:
UNSW offers a competitive salary and access to UNSW benefits including:

• Cultural Leave (for Indigenous People) and Indigenous Employee Network
• Flexible working
• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas period
• Access to lifelong learning and career development
• Progressive HR practices
• Discounts and entitlements

More information on the great staff benefits and culture can be foundhere.

How to Apply:Submit your CV along with a 1-2 page cover letter that addresses your suitability for the position in relation to the selection criteria (listed under the Skills & Experience section of the PD) online via the application portal.

Applications close:11:30pmSunday the 21st of September 2025.

Get in Touch:
For more information on how UNSW contributes to Indigenous initiatives please contact Nat Chenhall Manager of Indigenous Employment on email:

For queries regarding the recruitment process contact Lucy Gerondis Talent Acquisition Consultant UNSW:

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender sexual orientation cultural and linguistic backgrounds Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.