Step into a Service Area Leadership role where strategy governance and community-led development come together. At the Northern Land Council (NLC) you will lead high-impact planning and development initiatives that support Aboriginal self-determination and deliver lasting social cultural environmental and economic outcomes across the Top EndS.
About the Role:
As the Community Planning & Development Manager you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the NLCs CP&D Program driving continuous improvement in service quality governance practice and development outcomes.
You will lead a multidisciplinary team delivering participatory planning advocacy governance strengthening and project management support to Aboriginal groups ensuring programs are culturally grounded evidence-based and aligned with community aspirations.
This role plays a critical part in shaping development pathways that are community-led well-governed and sustainable while ensuring strong accountability risk management and performance across a diverse project portfolio.
What You Will Bring:
You are a seasoned CP&D professional with a strong grounding in community development theory and practice combined with the leadership capability to operate in complex cross-cultural environments. You bring a strategic mindset sound judgement and a commitment to supporting Aboriginal people to plan decide and drive their own development outcomes.
You are confident leading teams managing complex programs and budgets and working alongside Traditional Owners government partners and service providers to translate community priorities into deliverable outcomes.
In addition you will also have:
For a full copy of the Position Description and essential requirements refer to the link provided below.
Why Join the NLC
At the NLC you will work at the intersection of community aspiration governance and development practice. Our CP&D program supports Aboriginal groups to strengthen decision-making manage resources effectively and pursue development on their own terms.
You will be part of an organisation that values cultural authority evidence-based practice and long-term impactwhile supporting your professional growth in a senior influential leadership role.
Whats in it for you
This role offers a rare opportunity to lead community-driven development at scale. You will see strategic planning translate into tangible outcomes support Aboriginal governance and capacity-building and mentor a committed team delivering meaningful work across the Northern Territory.
We offer:
Be part of something biggerwhere your leadership helps promote strong communities and lasting change.
Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their interest and relevant experience.
For further queries please contact:- Paul Donohoe - mobile
Special Measures:
This vacancy is an Aboriginal prioritised position. Eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants will be given priority consideration under the Special Measures provisions of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1992 (NT).
Applications Close: Sunday 15 February 2026
Applications will be assessed on receipt. The NLC reserves the right to progress the appointment prior to the closing date.
About the NLC
The Northern Land Council (NLC) is an independent statutory authority established under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976. We serve Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people across the Top End supporting land sea culture and community aspirations through strong governance and culturally informed practice.
Required Experience:
Manager
The Northern Land Council NLC helps Aboriginal people in the Top End of the Northern Territory acquire and manage their traditional lands and seas. Explore NLC's history, work, and rangers. Subscribe to Land Rights News for updates on Indigenous land management and stories of traditio ... View more