Director First Nations Policy & Engagement

Robert Walters have partnered with the Department of the Premier and Cabinet in the search for an exceptional individual to join as Director, First Nations Policy and Engagement – a newly created leadership role that will drive meaningful change, champion cultural capability, and shape whole-of-government initiatives that reflect the aspirations of South Australia's First Nations communities.

About the Role:

Reporting to the Executive Director, Strategic Engagement and accountable to the Chief Executive, this high-profile leadership role is critical in delivering policy, programs, and partnerships that align with the Closing the Gap targets and advance South Australia's Voice to Parliament commitments.

Leading a dedicated team, you will provide expert policy advice, foster cross-sector relationships, and ensure First Nations perspectives are embedded across the department’s strategy and operations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the state’s reconciliation journey through strategic influence and culturally grounded leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and delivery of culturally responsive policy initiatives, programs and frameworks aligned with Closing the Gap and the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
• Build authentic partnerships with First Nations communities, Elders, government stakeholders, NGOs, and industry.
• Provide strategic advice to senior executives and government on emerging First Nations issues, opportunities, and systemic reform.
• Oversee the development of a whole-of-government Reconciliation Action Plan and lead a review of the State’s Engagement Framework to embed co-design principles.
• Drive implementation of the Closing the Gap Policy Impact Statement across departmental policy and Cabinet processes.
• Strengthen First Nations leadership and inclusion within government systems, policy design, and service delivery.

About You:

You are an experienced executive with deep cultural knowledge, a record of delivering meaningful outcomes with and for First Nations communities, and a passion for reconciliation and systems transformation.

Your capabilities include:

• Proven leadership in policy and engagement roles that advance cultural inclusion and social justice for First Nations peoples.
• Exceptional ability to build trust, influence, and drive change in complex, high-stakes policy environments.
• Strategic thinking informed by lived experience and understanding of Aboriginal cultures, values, and governance structures.
• Demonstrated ability to shape government-wide initiatives that deliver measurable results for First Nations peoples.

This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Designated Position, in accordance with sections 56(2) and 65 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

To apply, please click "Apply" or contact Giuseppe Nasca on, +61 8 8216 3508 for a confidential discussion.