Policy and Advocacy Officer

• Location: Darwin
• Status:Full-time ongoing

Are you passionate about shaping water policy that truly makes a difference? Northern Land Council is looking for someone with expertise in water policy formulation who understands the complex and competing demands of this role. If you can translate data and analytics into clear, evidence-based advice that drives meaningful change—this is your opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

About the Role: -

As part of the Strategy & Advocacy team and reporting to the Senior Policy & Advocacy officer, this role will undertake research and help to develop water policy positions and strategies to advocate for the rights and interests of our Aboriginal Traditional Owners and Native Title Holders. You will help shape water policy, law reform and delivery of Government services and programs in the NLC regions. You will also advocate for positive policy outcomes across other critical policy areas relevant to Aboriginal people across our seven regions.

What you will Bring: -

You will be well versed in evaluating water policy and its effectiveness and able to use evidence-based research while listening to and working with our stakeholders to create effective strategies and solutions. Your experience and expertise in water policy will enable the NLC to advocate on behalf of our constituents effectively with both Territory and Federal Government entities to bring about great outcomes for our communities.

In addition to this, you will have: -

• Bachelor qualifications in Environmental Science, Law, Economics, Social Sciences or relevant equivalent qualification
• Minimum of four (4) years' experience in policy analysis, research and development, and a demonstrated ability to successfully advocate for change.
• Solid research skills and sound Computer literacy is a must have especially in Microsoft Office 365
• A current C Class NT driving licence.

For a full copy of the Position Description refer to the link provided below.

What's in it for you?

As Part of a dedicated and collaborative team that supports your professional development, this is an exciting opportunity to play a role in helping to advocate the NLC positions on a broad range of issues affecting aboriginal people.

NLC offers competitive and attractive remuneration, work life balance and a unique opportunity to support our Aboriginal communities in the NLC Region.

We offer:

• A base salary of $102,669per annum plus 15%superannuation and salary sacrificing up to $15,900 + Meal Entertainment and Holiday Accommodation benefits up to $2,650 per year.
• Other benefits under our Enterprise Agreement include:
• • District allowance of up to $4,797 per annum for individuals with dependents and $2,630 without dependents.
• 5 weeks annual leave, leaving loading, 18 days personal leave;
• Paid Christmas close down;
• Upon completion of 12 months of service an Annual airfare with a net (in hand) value of $3,177

Interested applicants should send a copy of their CV along with a cover letter outlining why you are interested in this position and what relevant skills and experiences you will bring to the role.

If you have any further queries please contact: Sian Graham –

Applications Close: Thursday, 18 September 2025

About the NLC

Cultural knowledge and lived experience are central to the work that we do here at NLC.The Northern Land Council (NLC) was established 50 years ago under the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act in 1976, to assist Aboriginal people in the Top End of the NT to acquire and manage their traditional lands, waters and seas. We are committed to enhancing Aboriginal peoples social, political and economic participation by supporting their aspirations and amplifying their voices on a range of issues impacting on their lands, seas, culture and communities.