Director Berndt Museum

Job Description:

• Lead an Indigenous‑centred museum with genuine influence and impact.
• Drive innovative programs that connect culture, research, and community.
• Candidates applying for this role must identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander under Section 50(d) of the WA Equal Opportunity Act, 1984.
• Full-time appointment on an ongoing basis.
• Base salary range: $173,602 – $178,970 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

Founded in 1976, the Berndt Museum is the University’s major collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture. The collection also features cultural material from the Asia Pacific region, including Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Japan, India, and Korea. The Berndt collection is a living testament to the rich and diverse cultures it represents. Established as a research museum, it is one of the most significant collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and cultural material globally, with materials included in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. In 2020, the Museum joined the University’s Indigenous Portfolio, recognising the need for Indigenous collections to be cared for by Indigenous people and adhere to cultural protocols.

The Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous (PVCI) is responsible for leading the Indigenous Portfolio and the development and implementation of Indigenous strategy throughout the University. The Office also provides strategic leadership of the School of Indigenous Studies, the Berndt Museum, and the Poche Centre for Indigenous Health. The Indigenous Portfolio aspires to lead change for Aboriginal people, develop future leaders and demonstrate leadership in Indigenous knowledges.

About the opportunity

• Lead strategic project initiatives and coordinate teams to support the development and implementation of vision and strategy for the Berndt Museum.
• Manage and oversee the Berndt Museum to meet current and future needs, including monitoring budgets and assisting with asset management, capital works, communications, technology upgrades, storage, and asset renewal.
• Contribute to and support the development and application of policies and practices relating to Indigenous-led collections care and custodianship, community access, repatriation, and Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP).

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualification or demonstrated equivalent competency.
• Experience in Indigenous collection management encompassing curation, strategy, operations, collections, exhibitions, and curatorial practices.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully engage and work with Indigenous peoples and communities, including in remote and regional areas.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate and embed Indigenous perspectives.
• Substantial demonstrated experience leading a successful team in a cultural environment.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current National Police Clearance and Finance Check will be required by the successful applicant. Occasional interstate travel and travel within the state may be required.

Confirmation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage will be required for the successful applicant prior to appointment.

Position description: PD - Director Berndt Museum 523122.pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Jessyca Hutchens at jessyca.hutchens@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Thursday, 21 May 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.