Elder in Residence

This is an identified position, and applicants must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. Being an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person is a genuine occupational qualification as authorised under Section 14(D) of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act, 1977 NSW.

About Us

The University of Newcastle has a long and proud history as an innovator in educational outcomes and employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are also the sector leader of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student enrolments and employment of staff.

We've committed to build on our achievements. In doing so, we will strengthen collaborations and partnerships with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within our regions and beyond.

The Wollotuka Institute is committed to the advancement and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, research and engagement at a local, national and global level.

We support innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration to facilitate the achievement of quality outcomes that prioritises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and prepares them to make a difference and to create impact within the University, in our communities and across the globe.

Be challenged and imagine with us

At the University of Newcastle, we recognise the special place of Elders within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community.

As our Elder in Residence, you will provide cultural support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students. You will also serve as a vital link to the wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, fostering connection, guidance, and support.

In this role you will:

• Provide leadership in implementing the values and objectives of the Wollotuka Cultural Standards.
• Mentor and support Wollotuka staff and students.
• Provide cultural support aimed at enhancing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student and staff retention and success.

This continuing position is full time and will be located at the Callaghan Campus on Awabakal land.

How will you inspire us?

You will have:

• Knowledge of the various Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations in the local regions with established strong relationships and connections.
• Recognition as a “Significant Knowledge Holder” relating to culture, history and the social circumstances of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Demonstrated experience in working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and knowledge and understanding of the contributions, successes, and challenges relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

What we offer

The remuneration for this position is from $99,655 to $112,112 + 17% superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience. 

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, you will be able to access a range of benefits to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively.

These include:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network, offering social events, development programs, and peer support.
• Paid cultural leave.
• Cultural language allowance.
• Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy)
• Additional University holiday days, generous personal and parental leave, annual leave loading and an additional purchased leave scheme.
• Discounts for private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more.

Your next steps

This is an identified position, and applicants must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. Being an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person is a genuine occupational qualification as authorised under Section 14(D) of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act, 1977 NSW.

Your application:

Your application must include:

• Your resume.
• A 1-page overview that demonstrates your cultural credibility and standing in the community.
• You may also choose to provide a written reference from a community member.

Important information before you apply:

• If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application.
• Due to the nature of this role, the University may require the preferred candidate to undertake further pre-employment checks.
• Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.

We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.

We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process.

Contact Us

For specific position enquiries, please contact Nathan Towney, Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous, Strategy and Leadership and Head of Wollotuka Institute on (02) 4055 3001 or via email at nathan.towney@newcastle.edu.au

Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.

Closing date: Thursday 10 October 2024 at 11.59pm AEDT

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do. The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion.

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