Senior Program Adviser

Santos Foundation

The Santos Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation investing in partnerships and local initiatives that help communities thrive.

We work with donors and local partners to make a positive and lasting impact in communities in Papua New Guinea and are working to expand our footprint across Australia, Timor-Leste and Alaska where Santos has a presence.

Our work addresses societal trends and local needs in the four key program areas of health, youth opportunities, community development, and family and sexual violence.

We respect the political, cultural, social and legislative frameworks where we work, partnering to empower communities, building capacity, capability and resilience.

What You'll Do
The Santos Foundation is seeking a passionate and experienced First Nations leader to join our team as the Program Lead – Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence (DFSV). This newly created, identified position will lead the design, implementation, and management of our DFSV program across the greater Darwin region.

Grounded in culturally responsive, trauma-informed practice, this role will support community-led strategies to prevent and respond to family, domestic, and sexual violence. You will work closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, service providers, including government and industry partners to drive meaningful change and healing.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of the DFSV program in alignment with strategic objectives.
• Manage program planning, risk, milestones, and reporting.
• Build strong, respectful relationships with Traditional Owners, Elders, and community leaders.
• Coordinate stakeholder engagement, training, and community consultations.
• Promote culturally safe, inclusive, and trauma-informed practices.
• Represent the Foundation in cross-agency forums and working groups.
• Oversee procurement, funding processes, and service provider performance.
• Develop accessible, culturally appropriate program materials and resources.
• Drive continuous improvement through data collection and evaluation.

What You'll Bring
You are a self-motivated, culturally grounded leader with:

• Significant experience in DFSV prevention and response, including in a leadership role.
• Deep understanding of the intersection between intergenerational trauma, systemic disadvantage, and the central role of culture, kinship, and Country in strengthening Aboriginal identity and wellbeing.
• Strong knowledge of relevant NT legislation and policy frameworks.
• Proven ability to manage complex programs and budgets.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated cultural capability and commitment to working respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
• Degree qualification in a relevant field, or equivalent experience working with First Nations communities.

What You'll Get
Here, you'll be amongst high-talented people and get to work on industry-leading projects. We don't shy away from solving tough problems at pace. We like it that way. You can expect to be challenged and supported; to learn and grow.

At Santos, we're committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. This means a place that is safe; where you are valued and respected, and your contribution is recognised and appreciated. Join us, and you'll play a role in this too.

What You're Part Of
Everywhere you turn you will be a part of a team who are coming together to contribute to our single uniting purpose - to provide reliable and affordable energy to help create a better world for everyone

And because it's not only what you do, but how you do it, you will also contribute to improving the living standards of the communities where we operate, building enduring and respectful relationships that serve a generation. It's about each of us, and all of us – together.

Ideally, you will have experience working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in remote regions, supporting successful local programs that create positive outcomes. You are confident in building and nurturing respectful relationships with Traditional Owner Groups, Elders and community members that will enable the Santos Foundation to make a positive impact to the greater Darwin region.

How To Apply
Applications must be submitted via the online recruitment system before
COB 2nd October 2025.
Supporting a Diverse Workforce
Santos Foundation acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we operate and pays respects to Elders past and present. We recognise their enduring connection to Country and their right to maintain culture identity, traditions and customs

We are committed to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive workplace where all people feel valued and respected. We believe that diversity of voices, perspectives, and experiences is essential to our ongoing success, and we actively welcome the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

At Santos Foundation, we strive to create a workplace where everyone feels they belong, are treated with fairness and dignity, and are empowered to contribute their unique skills and knowledge regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of their identity that makes them unique.

Santos Foundation is committed to improving employment opportunities and outcomes for First Nations people. This position is only open to Aboriginal and / or Torres Strait Islander applicants. The filling of this position is intended to constitute a special/equal opportunity measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth) and equivalent provisions of State legislation applies to this position

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply, as your cultural knowledge, community connections, and perspectives are highly valued in our team.