This is a special measures role and only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are eligible to apply, as per the Equal Opportunity Act 2010

SuniTAFE is looking for an accomplished, values driven senior leader to take on the pivotal role of Senior Manager, First Nations Strategy and Engagement. This position plays a critical role in shaping SuniTAFE’s strategic direction and ensuring strong embedding of Victoria’s First Nations Treaty principles across governance, education delivery, and organisational culture. This is a high impact opportunity to drive sustainable outcomes for First Nations communities by creating culturally safe learning and working environments.

Reporting to the Head of People and Culture, the Senior Manager will provide evidence based strategic advice, strong governance, and leadership in managing cultural and compliance risks. By strengthening governance structures, including the First Nations Education Advisory Group, the role ensures SuniTAFE meets its Treaty commitments while setting a benchmark for leadership and impact.

If you are committed to lead with integrity, strengthen governance and create lasting, inclusive outcomes for First Nations communities, we encourage you to apply.

Your Responsibilities will include:

• Provide strategic leadership to embed Victoria’s First Nations Treaty principles across SuniTAFE’s governance, strategy, policies, and operations.
• Establish and maintain respectful, trusted partnerships with Traditional Owners, First Nation Community, and relevant representative bodies.
• Lead and oversee organisational approaches to codesign, cultural safety, truth telling, and recognition of cultural authority.
• Drive strategies to improve First Nations workforce outcomes, including recruitment, retention, career progression, and leadership representation.
• Establish and oversee governance mechanisms, including the First Nations Education Advisory Group, to support accountability and informed decision making.
• Provide high level, evidence-based advice and reporting to the Executive Leadership Team on Treaty aligned performance, outcomes, and risks.

• Identify, monitor and manage cultural, reputational, legislative and compliance risks relevant to First Nations commitments.
• Support culturally safe student experience and education delivery in partnership with relevant business areas

SuniTAFE employee benefits that Make a Difference

At SuniTAFE, we believe in supporting our team both professionally and personally. You will enjoy:

• Flexible Working Arrangements to help you support your daily commitments, including option to work from home or compressed hours and up to 4 weeks additional purchased leave.
• TAFE Kids Childcare Centre on Mildura campus: Priority access and discount for SuniTAFE employees’ children.
• Attractive leave entitlements including paid parental leave.
• Free on-site car parking.
• Onsite Library offering a vast selection of books across various categories.
• Discounted beauty services at our Mildura Campus.
• Onsite Nexus Cafe to keep you fuelled with tasty and healthy meals throughout the day.
• Professional Development and Career pathway opportunities Prioritising your health and happiness at work.
• Employee Mental Health and Wellbeing Program prioritising your wellbeing.
• Inclusion focused workplace to foster a culturally varied working environment.

The successful candidate will be required to provide:

• A criminal record check which is less than 6 months old.

• A valid Working With Children Check.

This position is open to Australian residents only or those with current working rights in Australia.

Applications will remain open until the position is filled.

For the Key Selection Criteria, please refer to the Position Description.

For further information please contact Angela Gransden, Head of People & Culture at 03 50223965 or email at agransden@sunitafe.edu.au.

How to apply

Candidates are always encouraged to apply for positions that match their particular skill set.

Your application must include:

• Your updated CV/resume.
• A cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria (no more than 2 pages).

All applications must be made by the position closing date through the application portal - .

Child Safety Commitment
SuniTAFE is a child safe organisation that is committed to the safety and wellbeing children and young people. All staff must complete Child Safe Training and maintain a current Working with Children Check. To find out more about the Child Safe Standards refer to the CCYP | Child Safe Standards or you can request a copy of SuniTAFE’s Child Safety Policy and Child Safety Reporting Procedure.