First Nations Strategic Relationships and Development Lead (Targeted First Nations Position)

The role

• Full Time, Continuing
• Level 8 - $117,936 to $133,494 p.a. (plus 17% superannuation)
• Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie or Wagga Wagga

As the First Nations Strategic Relationships and Development Lead, you will play a key role in strengthening and growing meaningful collaboration between the University, First Nations communities, organisations, government, and education sectors. You will identify and develop strategic opportunities that create positive outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, build collaborative relationships, and lead initiatives that contribute to community aspirations and organisational priorities.

Working across a diverse network of stakeholders, you will champion engagement, facilitate partnerships, secure new opportunities through funding and business development activities, and help drive sustainable, long-term impact for First Nations outcomes.

About you

We are seeking an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander professional who is passionate about creating opportunities for First Nations peoples and building strong, respectful relationships that deliver meaningful outcomes.

You will bring:

• Strong connections to and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, cultures and perspectives.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Experience identifying and developing strategic opportunities, partnerships or community-focused initiatives.
• Strong communication and engagement skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across different sectors and communities.
• Experience preparing funding applications, business cases, grants, tenders or proposals.
• The ability to work independently while fostering collaboration and shared outcomes.
• A commitment to culturally safe, community-led approaches and creating positive change for First Nations peoples.
• Strategic thinking skills, coupled with the ability to turn ideas into practical and sustainable outcomes.

About us

At Charles Sturt University, we deeply value the knowledges, cultures and leadership that First Nations peoples bring. We're committed to building a culturally safe and inclusive workplace where mob feel respected, supported and connected.

We're growing our First Nations workforce, with opportunities across teaching, research, student support and other professional roles. Bring your skills, experience and perspectives to meaningful work that supports our students, communities and future generations.​

When you join Charles Sturt, you'll be part of a connected First Nations staff community, with opportunities for professional development, cultural leave and connection through First Nations Staff Connect. We're committed to supporting First Nations careers and creating a workplace where mob feel valued, connected and supported to succeed.​

Learn more about the Office of Engagement and Enterprise here.

Visit our website to learn about First Nations careers at Charles Sturt.

Charles Sturt University is committed to building a diverse workforce as shown through our Athena Swan Bronze Award, our Australian Workplace Equality Index Bronze Award and our membership of a range of diversity focused organisations including Diversity Council Australia and Pride in Diversity. We encourage applications from First Nations people, carers, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, neurodivergent people, and people of all age groups, genders and sexualities for all roles.

To apply

Click the Apply button and complete your application online, submit a “statement of suitability” demonstrating your skills, knowledge and/or experience relevant to the position (referencing the selection criteria in the position description) and upload your CV. If you experience difficulties applying online or for further information on completing the application process please visit our how to apply page or contact us.

Further information

Additional information is available in the position description or by contacting:

Amber Marks | Director, Business Development | amarks@csu.edu.au  

Closing Date: 11pm, 19 November 2026