Special Projects Officer

Location: Timber CreekStatus: Full-timeBase Salary: $115,194 per annum plus housing and 15% SuperannuationLive and work on Country. Build partnerships that make a difference. The Northern Land Council (NLC) is seeking a culturally capable and relationship-driven Special Projects Officer to join our Regional Operations team. This unique role begins with a full induction and onboarding in Darwin for a couple of months, before relocating to Timber Creek, where you’ll live and work on Country with accommodation provided.

You’ll be based in one of the most culturally rich and environmentally significant regions of the Top End and helping to deliver long-term cultural, environmental and economic outcomes for Traditional Owners under key Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs). You’ll have the full backing of both the NLC and the Department of Defence, working together to build strong partnerships, protect sacred sites, and support local development opportunities.

About The RoleAs the Special Projects Officer, you’ll play a central role in coordinating, advising and supporting the delivery of key Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs) between Traditional Owners, the Northern Land Council and the Department of Defence, particularly at the Bradshaw Field Training Area and Delamere Air Weapons Range. RoleBut this role goes far beyond just implementing agreements. You’ll be trusted to work with a high level of independence and cultural sensitivity to: Support Aboriginal participation in Defence-related economic opportunities. Strengthen partnerships with government agencies and contractors. Safeguard cultural and environmental values.

Help local organisations take up business, procurement and training pathways. You’ll be the key connector between Traditional Owners, government, and industry, ensuring obligations are met, opportunities are created, and local voices are heard. What You Will BringYou’re someone who understands the importance of strong, respectful relationships, especially when working on Country with Traditional Owners and communities. You will bring: -A deep respect for Aboriginal values, decision-making, and connection to land. Experience working closely with Aboriginal people in remote settings—maybe through land use agreements, community development, or partnerships with government or defence.

The ability to build trust and navigate complex partnerships. You’re confident working across cultures and know how to bring people together. Practical business know-how, you can support Aboriginal organisations with things like mentoring, local procurement, and managing contracts. Strong coordination skills that demonstrate you are organised, reliable, and keep things moving without losing sight of the big picture. A current Australian driver’s licence and the ability to get a Baseline security clearance. For a full copy of the Position Description refer to the link provided below.

What’s in it for You?This is a unique opportunity to work in a cross-cultural setting where land, law, and legacy intersect. You will be provided accommodation in both Darwin and Tenant Creek, living and working on Country, with support from the NLC’s wider team. In addition to your base salary you will enjoy other entitlements such as: -District Allowance up to $9,750 (with dependents). Five (5) weeks annual leave plus leave loading,Annual airfare allowance and paid Christmas closedown Salary packaging benefits up to $18,800 per year.

You’ll be making a genuine difference - helping Aboriginal people protect sacred sites, develop local capability, and build stronger futures through land use agreements that are shaped by their priorities. Ready to Apply? Send us your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and what you’ll bring to it. Contact: Greg Kimpton on 0438 878 699 if you have any further queriesApplications Close: Sunday 10 August 2025This position requires the successful applicant to obtain and maintain a Baseline security clearance through the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).

About The Northern Land CouncilThe Northern Land Council (NLC) is an independent statutory authority of the Commonwealth. The NLC is established under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (Northern Territory) 1976 and its purpose is to serve its constituents who are Traditional Owners (TOs) and other Aboriginal people living in their region. Cultural knowledge and lived experience are central to the work that we do here at NLC. 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.

R71 Special Projects Officer_PD_24. 07. 2025_PDF