Deputy Director Aboriginal Economic Development

Deputy Director Aboriginal Economic Development

Join to apply for the Deputy Director Aboriginal Economic Development role at NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

Overview

The Deputy Director, Aboriginal Economic Development supports the Director Economic Development Network (EDN) to deliver on Departmental priorities and strategies that improve economic outcomes for Aboriginal people, communities and businesses. The Deputy Director works closely with all DPIRD Groups in the cluster, including Strategy/Policy and Data/Performance, to embed an Aboriginal lens in all work programs and ensure Aboriginal inclusion is considered in regional NSW priorities. Focusing on the NSW Closing the Gap Priority Reform 5 (Employment, Business Growth and Economic Prosperity), Aboriginal Economic Development aims to support aspirations that grow the Aboriginal business sector, improve employment and training pathways, and deliver economic prosperity to Aboriginal communities.

Role and Identification

This is an identified role under Section 14d of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are an essential requirement of the role.

• Is of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent
• Identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person
• Is accepted as such by the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community

Location and Opportunity Type

Location: Willing to consider candidates across all NSW locations. Preference will be given to candidates based regionally, with a focus on Queanbeyan, Armidale, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour.

Opportunity type: Ongoing, full-time Identified opportunity.

About You / Qualifications

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Experience providing expert advice, reports and briefs to senior leaders to support strategic decisions.
• Ability to advise on effective ways to engage Aboriginal businesses and organisations in shaping new policies and programs.
• Skills in working with analysts, service providers and Aboriginal stakeholders to design innovative approaches to improve economic self-determination.
• Proven experience in leading a team to identify, develop and deliver initiatives and projects aimed at supporting the establishment and growth of Aboriginal businesses.
• Proven leadership in promoting new, strength-based approaches to Aboriginal empowerment across government.
• Strong ability to build partnerships with regional stakeholders, government agencies, the private sector and Aboriginal organisations to inform policy and improve economic outcomes.
• Experience engaging with internal teams and Aboriginal communities to implement strategies and business priorities that benefit Aboriginal people, organisations, and businesses.

Applying

Submit your current Resume/CV (max. 1 page) and a Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience, and why you're our ideal candidate. If you'd like to know more about the role, please view the role description. For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, contact Craig Jenkins, Director Economic Development Network at or

Applications Close

Applications close: Thursday 11 September 2025 at 11:55pm.

About DPIRD

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies. We support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.

Organisation

• Local Land Services
• NSW Resources
• Agriculture and Biosecurity
• Fisheries and Forestry
• Regional Development and Delivery

Additional Information

The successful applicant may also be required to undergo police check, health assessment, and other relevant checks as part of the recruitment process. If you require adjustments in completing your application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or require information in an alternative format, please contact for assistance.

Job Details

• Seniority level: Director
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Other
• Industries: Government Administration

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