Cultural Values Advisor 

About us 

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation is a Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) appointed under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic.). We represent the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Traditional Owners and Custodians of Melbourne and the Greater Melbourne region, and we take great pride in our responsibility for protecting and managing Aboriginal cultural heritage objects and places on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country. The Corporation offers a range of other cultural services including environmental land management, cross-cultural education, traditional Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremonies, research, and cultural consultations. 

Purpose 

The Cultural Values Advisor is responsible for the delivery a range of Traditional Owner cultural values-based projects. Key tasks include the preparation and review of assessments and studies related to cultural values (intangible cultural heritage). The role requires engaging with Wurundjeri Elders to record their knowledge of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung culture and utilising documentary and other sources to conduct research. Additionally, it is responsible for facilitating project meetings, workshops, and on-Country activities to support our mission of preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. 

The Cultural Values Advisor will sit within the Cultural Values Program within the Corporation’s Research Unit, which documents and assesses Wurundjeri cultural values in relation to sites, places and landscapes with guidance from Wurundjeri Elders and community members. These cultural values, or intangible cultural heritage, include stories, customs, beliefs, associations, practices, knowledge, skills and language that together form part of a living, dynamic Wurundjeri cultural heritage. 

Key responsibilities 

  • Work collaboratively to deliver a range of Traditional Owner cultural values-based projects. 
  • Compile ethnographic and ethnohistorical information to understand, assess and interpret Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung cultural values. 
  • Facilitate recording of cultural values with Wurundjeri Elders and community members. 
  • Prepare cultural values assessments and studies, and review assessments and studies by external stakeholders. 
  • Work closely with other units at Wurundjeri Corporation to strategically deliver cultural values work and provide research assistance through cross unit collaboration 
  • Assist Wurundjeri Corporation in establishing and supporting key partnerships including with Victorian government agencies, Shire Councils, NGOs etc. 

About you 

Education and qualifications (or equivalent level of learning) 

  • Honours degree or above in anthropology, Indigenous studies, history (Australian), archaeology or associated social sciences. 

Experience 

  • Applied experience with Indigenous Australian communities including demonstrated experience of collaborative research with Traditional Owner groups. 

Knowledge and skills 

  • A proven track record in ethnographic and qualitative research. 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic.) Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018 (Vic,) and Aboriginal Native Title Act 1993 
  • Highly developed written and oral communication, and analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • The ability to conduct all duties in a confidential and culturally sensitive manner. 
  • Ability to identify critical issues and assess their relevance to the Wurundjeri Corporation. 

Personal qualities 

  • Knowledge and appreciation of Aboriginal cultures and associated matters including cultural safety and social issues. 
  • Self-managed, with the ability to take the initiative, work to tight timelines and manage a diverse and complex project portfolio. 
  • Creative problem solver, committed to continuous improvement. 

Benefits of working at the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation 

  • Cultural Alignment: Work with like-minded people to support and develop the Wurundjeri Community and Corporation to ensure on-going protection of the Wurundjeri Cultural Heritage. 
  • Collaborative culture: Work with a forward-thinking, diverse team that values your insights. 
  • Growth culture: We invest in your development with career pathways, mentorship, and training. 
  • Top-tier benefits: Competitive salary, health benefits, and work-life balance perks that make a difference. 
  • Make an impact: Be part of something bigger, helping us shape the services we deliver. 
  • Not-for-profit salary packaging benefits. (opportunity to earn tax-free income) 
  • Flexible work arrangements. 
  • Free onsite parking. 

How to Apply 

We welcome and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

If you would like further details about the role, please email hr@wurundjeri.com.au using the subject line: Cultural Values Advisor enquiry via EthicalJobs. 

*Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander applicants are encouraged to apply* 

Apply now