"Director - The Mabo Centre"

Role type: Full-Time, Fixed-Term for 12 months

Faculty: Faculty of Business & Economics

Department / School: The Mabo Centre

Salary: $232,180 p.a. plus 17% super

• Drive Indigenous justice and socio-economic development / Lead groundbreaking research and partnerships / Influence national policy and community engagement.
• Apply now to lead The Mabo Centre in advancing Indigenous justice and socio-economic empowerment through strategic partnerships.
• Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

Only Indigenous Australians are eligible to apply for this role, as it is exempt under the Special Measure Provision, Section 12 (1) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2011 (Vic). 'Indigenous' here means a person of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent.

As the Director of the Mabo Centre, you'll spearhead strategic initiatives to enhance Native Title agreements, and broader Indigenous land rights justice, focusing on self-determination and socio-economic growth for First Nations landowners. You will lead a dynamic team, foster academic excellence, and build influential partnerships across sectors, contributing to impactful research and policy advancements.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Provide Exceptional Academic Leadership: Guide the Centre's strategic direction and academic excellence, fostering relationships within the University and community.
• Drive Research Excellence: Lead and develop research programs, securing funding, and translating research into policy outcomes.
• Enhance Engagement and Partnerships: Promote cross-discipline collaboration and establish strong partnerships with business, government, and community sectors.
• Manage Resources and Performance: Oversee financial management, staff development, and ensure compliance with University policies.

You may be a great fit if: You will be a distinguished academic leader with a strong background in Indigenous affairs, Native Title, and justice, adept at fostering partnerships and driving socio-economic development.

• Have a Doctoral degree in Law, Justice, or a business-related discipline and/or equivalent professional experience.
• Possess a proven track record in Indigenous affairs, justice, or Native Title research and policy.
• Demonstrate exceptional leadership and management skills in a self-funded environment.
• Exhibit strong influencing, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Be adept at sourcing external funding and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

What we offer you! We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including: Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being, Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance, Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance, Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program. For more information check out our benefits page!

If this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents: Resume, Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience. Learn more about the application process, including tips and FAQs. For recruitment queries, email Shabon Nawabi at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au. Include the Position Number and Job Title in the subject line.

Applications close: 7 November 2025 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.