First Nations Partnerships and Development Specialist

Permanent Part Time

• Flexible work options, super up to 16% + employee perks
• Free Cockburn ARC gym membership and wellness programs

About Us

The City of Cockburn is centrally located in the southern suburbs of Perth, on Whadjuk country. We're a place of experiences, just 20 minutes' from Perth city, with everything from pristine beaches and wetlands to theme parks and world-class recreation facilities.

At the City of Cockburn, we're more than just a local government – we're a vibrant, forward-thinking organisation that puts our people first. Our team is united by a shared desire to make an impact by helping to achieve our vision - Cockburn, the best place to be.

About the Role

This pivotal role will foster strong partnerships with local Elders, community leaders and Aboriginal Community-Controlled organisations and government agencies while guiding the City in embedding First Nations perspectives across all Directorates. The position will also mentor the City's First Nations Community Development Officer and play a key role in advancing reconciliation through the delivery of the City's Reconciliation Action Plan and Closing the Gap priorities.

About you

We are seeking a passionate and experienced First Nations Partnerships and Development Specialist to strengthen relationships with our local First Nations communities and ensure their voices and aspirations are reflected across the City's projects, services, and initiatives.

This role requires cultural insight, leadership, and strong relationship-building skills to make a real impact. You will bring demonstrated experience working closely with First Nations communities and Elders, alongside excellent communication and advisory skills, with the ability to influence and inspire others to embed cultural respect in everything we do. Success in this role will be measured by:

• Increased trust, engagement, and satisfaction among Elders, Traditional Owners, and First Nations organisations.
• Strong outcomes and participation through the Aboriginal Reference Group.
• Evidence of First Nations perspectives embedded across City policies, projects, and services.
• Effective delivery of Reconciliation Action Plan outcomes and support for Closing the Gap targets.
• Consistent, culturally respectful practices applied across City services and events.

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply today and make an impact.

Salary: Starting from Level 7 Step 1 – Step 4 ($111, $118,583.27 prorata basis, 0.8 FTE) City of Cockburn Industrial Agreement 2025 based on qualification and experience.

Need more information? We encourage applicants to read the position description for a full understanding of the role before applying. For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Evan Hillman, Service Manager Community Development on or

How to apply: Head to the City's web site ), click "Job Vacancies" and "Apply". You will need to address the Selection Criteria detailed in the Position Description (maximum of two pages). All applications must be made via our online portal.

To be eligible for this role you must be legally permitted to work in Australia. All applicants are required to undergo a pre-employment process which includes a fitness for work assessment, alcohol and drug screening, qualification/license checks and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

Closing Date: Friday, 24 October 2025 at 5.00pm. The City of Cockburn reserve the right to commence shortlisting and close the advertising period early. We are currently not accepting applications from agencies.

We value equal opportunities for all which is why the City of Cockburn strongly encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. Every applicant is valued here.

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• First Nations Partnerships and Development Specialist