Policy and Advocacy Officer

• Location: Berrimah -Northern Territory
• Status:2x Full-time ongoing positions
• Annual Salary:$102669per annum plus 15% superannuation

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is seeking skilled and values-driven Policy and Advocacy Officers to support evidence-based policy development and social justice advocacy that improves outcomes for Aboriginal people across the Top End. This role is ideal for policy professionals who want their work to have real-world impactsupporting Aboriginal rights influencing government decision-making and contributing to meaningful reform.

About the Role

The Policy and Advocacy Officer is responsible for researching developing and advocating for policy and legislative reform that advances the rights interests and aspirations of Aboriginal people in the NLC region. As part of the Strategy and Advocacy team and reporting to The Senior Policy and Advocacy Officer you will prepare high-quality policy advice for the CEO Chairperson and Full Council and contribute to submissions discussion papers reports and briefings across a range of issues. While the role has a strong social justice focus it also supports broader policy work relating to environmental management water policy and economic strategy.

You will engage with government agencies peak bodies and other stakeholders represent the NLC on relevant committees and working groups and work collaboratively across NLC service areas to support interdisciplinary policy development. A core part of the role is supporting Traditional Owners and native title holders to protect their rights and interests through effective policy advocacy and reform.

What You Will Bring:

You are an analytical and persuasive policy professional who can translate complex issues into clear compelling advice. You are confident engaging with government and stakeholders and you bring a strong commitment to culturally informed Aboriginal-led advocacy.

In addition you will have:

• Tertiary qualifications in Public Policy Social Sciences Law Economics or a related discipline
• Demonstrated experience in policy analysis research and development with the ability to advocate effectively for change.
• Advanced written communication skills including producing high-quality briefings submissions reports and discussion papers for diverse audiences.
• Strong organisational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities in a confidential environment

For a full copy of the Position Description refer to the link provided below.

Why Join the NLC

At the NLC policy matters. This role gives you the opportunity to help shape reform that directly affects Aboriginal communities land rights and social justice outcomes across the Northern Territory.

Youll work in a friendly purpose-driven team that values integrity cultural authority and evidence-based decision-making. Your work will help to inform National and Territory-level conversations while remaining grounded in the voices and priorities of Traditional Owners.

We offer:

• Abase salary of $102669per annum plus15% superannuation
  • salary sacrificingup to $15900 Meal and Entertainment card withbenefitsup to $2650 per year.
  • District allowance of up to$4884 (with dependents) or $2678 (without);
  • Five (5) weeks annual leaveleave loading18 days personal leave;
  • Annual airfare after 12 months of service(net value $3177);

The opportunity to work in anew modern office in Berrimah designed for collaboration and wellbeing

How To apply:

To apply pleasesubmityour CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the position and how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.

Please note this position is This position is designated under Special Measures with priority consideration for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants under section 57 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1996 (NT).

If you have any furtherqueriesplease contact: Ged Shearer -

Applications Close: Thursday29 January 2026

About the Northern Land Council

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is an independent statutory authority of the Commonwealthestablishedunder the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976. We serve Traditional Owners and Aboriginal communities across the Top End supporting their aspirations for land sea and cultural management.

Cultural knowledge and lived experience are central to all we do. We are committed to equity inclusion and cultural safety and we strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants to apply.

Be part of our next chapter

Join us as we move into a modern new workplace and strengthen the systems that support Aboriginal leadership and community governance across the Northern Territory.