VicGrid is leading one of the most significant infrastructure transformations in Victoria’s history.
Our role is to connect renewable energy at scale to support a more reliable, sustainable and affordable electricity grid that can meet the increasing demand for electricity as coal-fired power stations close.
If you want your work to have real-world impact and deliver lasting benefits for all Victorians, this is a place where your contribution can make a real difference.
The Opportunity
The Deputy Director, First Peoples role Lead VicGrid's First Peoples engagement, policy and programs, embedding First Peoples perspectives across major projects. You'll drive culturally informed initiatives that advance Aboriginal self-determination and deliver real outcomes for communities across Victoria.
As a senior adviser, you'll guide leaders on key priorities including Treaty and Energy Transition, while building strong partnerships with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal organisations and government to support collaborative decision-making.
This position is only open to applicants that identify as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent. VicGrid considers that being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent is a genuine occupational requirement for this position under s 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic).
What you will deliver
- Lead the development, implementation and continuous improvement of First Peoples policies, programs and initiatives across VicGrid, ensuring outcomes are culturally informed, aligned with self-determination principles and responsive to community priorities.
- Provide strategic leadership and direction to a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and cultural integrity to deliver high-quality policy, engagement and program outcomes.
- Establish and maintain trusted relationships with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, Elders, First Peoples representative bodies, government agencies and industry stakeholders to support meaningful engagement, co-design and shared decision-making.
- Provide authoritative advice to senior leaders on First Peoples policy, engagement and partnership matters, including emerging issues, risks and opportunities impacting VicGrid's strategic objectives and operations.
What you will bring
- Demonstrated understanding of the historical, social, and political context affecting First Peoples in Victoria and nationally, including Closing the Gap, the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and treaty and truth-telling processes.
- Proven ability to design and implement First Nations-led policy, programs, and reform initiatives, grounded in cultural safety, co-design, and place-based engagement approaches.
- Experience navigating complex public sector environments and influencing policy development at a whole-of-government level, including Cabinet processes and interdepartmental coordination.
- Demonstrated success in building trusted, enduring relationships with First Nations communities, Traditional Owners, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, as well as working collaboratively with government, NGOs, and industry stakeholders.
What we offer you
- Career advancement and professional development opportunities.
- Annual salary increases and incremental performance-based payments over the course of your employment.
Other relevant information
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, eligible for appoints to this role, applicants must identify as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent.
How to Apply
This is a 3-year fixed term position available. This role is based at 2 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, with responsibilities spanning both metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. Occasional overnight travel may be required.
Hybrid work arrangements are available. To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience. Applications close on 26/06/2026.
