Director TUMRA

Director TUMRA – Lead Cultural Partnerships on the Reef

Affirmative Measures – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

EL2 | Townsville or Cairns | Full-time

$137,405.00 - $162,377.00 PA

Applications close Sunday 21 September 2025

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (the Reef Authority) is a Commonwealth non-corporate entity, and a statutory agency established by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (Marine Park Act), reporting to the Minister for the Environment and Water. Our objective is the long-term protection, ecologically sustainable use, understanding and enjoyment of the Great Barrier Reef for all Australians and the international community through the care and development of the Marine Park.

Managing a reef roughly the size of Italy demands many skills and talents, so you don't have to be a marine biologist to contribute to our mission. From finance to marketing roles, we have a team almost as diverse as the ecosystem we protect. Our commitment and dedication to the Great Barrier Reef and the Australian public have a long-lasting impact, and we are looking for individuals who can bring their unique skills, experience, and knowledge to our high-performing and inclusive organisation.

This position requires a detailed understanding of the cultural connection of Traditional Owners with the Great Barrier Reef. The position will work closely with Great Barrier Reef Traditional Owners and other First Nations people including remote communities, corporations and bodies established to assist First Nations people and business.

The filling of this vacancy is intended to constitute an affirmative measure under subsection 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 and is only open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander applicants. Please see the position description for further information.

• Lead strategic delivery of Reef Authority programs with Traditional Owners
• Influence policy and operational outcomes for Country and culture
• Represent the Reef Authority at high-level forums and negotiations
• Join a high-performing, inclusive team committed to long-term Reef care
• Travel to remote and regional communities across the Great Barrier Reef

• A deep understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's spiritual connection to Country
• Ability to clearly articulate and apply principles of cultural authority, traditional lore, and customs for managing Country
• Sound knowledge of government policies and initiatives such as Closing the Gap and the Uluru Statement from the Heart
• Strategic leadership that motivates and inspires others through example
• Proven experience in building high-level relationships that achieve enduring partnerships, particularly with First Nations people
• Strong attention to detail, resilience, and composure when managing competing priorities or complex challenges
• Confidence representing the Reef Authority at internal and external forums and negotiating sensitively on complex matters

If you bring a deep understanding of cultural authority, traditional lore and customs, and want to contribute to the long-term protection of the Great Barrier Reef, we encourage you to apply today.