Job Title

Director First Nations Policy & EngagementSave jobRobert Walters have partnered with the Department of the Premier and Cabinet in the search for an exceptional individual to join as Director, First Nations Policy and Engagement a newly created leadership role that will drive meaningful change, champion cultural capability, and shape whole-of-government initiatives that reflect the aspirations of South Australia''s First Nations communities.About the Role:Reporting to the Executive Director, Strategic Engagement and accountable to the Chief Executive, this high-profile leadership role is critical in delivering policy, programs, and partnerships that align with the Closing the Gap targets and advance South Australia''s Voice to Parliament commitments.Leading a dedicated team, you will provide expert policy advice, foster cross-sector relationships, and ensure First Nations perspectives are embedded across the departments strategy and operations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the states reconciliation journey through strategic influence and culturally grounded leadership.Key Responsibilities:Lead the design and delivery of culturally responsive policy initiatives, programs and frameworks aligned with Closing the Gap and the Uluru Statement from the Heart.Build authentic partnerships with First Nations communities, Elders, government stakeholders, NGOs, and industry.Provide strategic advice to senior executives and government on emerging First Nations issues, opportunities, and systemic reform.Oversee the development of a whole-of-government Reconciliation Action Plan and lead a review of the States Engagement Framework to embed co-design principles.Drive implementation of the Closing the Gap Policy Impact Statement across departmental policy and Cabinet processes.Strengthen First Nations leadership and inclusion within government systems, policy design, and service delivery.About You:You are an experienced executive with deep cultural knowledge, a record of delivering meaningful outcomes with and for First Nations communities, and a passion for reconciliation and systems transformation.Your capabilities include:Proven leadership in policy and engagement roles that advance cultural inclusion and social justice for First Nations peoples.Exceptional ability to build trust, influence, and drive change in complex, high-stakes policy environments.Strategic thinking informed by lived experience and understanding of Aboriginal cultures, values, and governance structures.Demonstrated ability to shape government-wide initiatives that deliver measurable results for First Nations peoples.This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Designated Position, in accordance with sections 56(2) and 65 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.To apply, please click "Apply" or contact Giuseppe Nasca on, +61 8 8216 3508 for a confidential discussion.About the jobContract Type: FULL_TIMESpecialism: GovernmentFocus: PolicyIndustry: Public Sector and GovernmentWorkplace Type: On-siteExperience Level: DirectorContract Type: FULL_TIMESpecialism: GovernmentFocus: PolicyIndustry: Public Sector and GovernmentSalary: Attractive Remuneration PackageWorkplace Type: On-siteExperience Level: DirectorLocation: Adelaide CBDFULL_TIMEJob Reference: F17TL8-BC2E1E5DDate posted: 23 June 2025Consultant: Giuseppe Nascaadelaide government/policy 2025-06-25 2025-07-23 public-sector-and-housing Adelaide CBD South Australia AU Robert Walters true #J-18808-Ljbffr