Senior Advisor - Sea Country Strategy and Partnerships

• Location: Darwin
• Status: Full-time ongoing                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Help support aspirations of Aboriginal people for their sea country and shape the future of Aboriginal sea rights, governance and sustainable Sea Country management across the Top End.

About the Role:

This role will lead the development of Sea Country strategies, policy positions, frameworks and action plans that strengthen Aboriginal participation and influence in marine and fisheries management. The Successful candidate will work directly with Traditional Owners and bring together government, industry, research institutions and other partners to navigate sensitive and complex issues, lead consultation and negotiations for long term arrangements, and build relationships that deliver sustainable cultural, social, employment and economic opportunities. 

As a trusted senior advisor, you will keep NLC leaders informed about emerging policy issues, risks and opportunities affecting Aboriginal sea rights and Sea Country outcomes, and turn this advice into clear submissions, briefings and strategic reports for senior management, Council and external decision-makers. You will also mentor staff, including a Project Officer, and help create a culturally safe, accountable and collaborative environment where high-quality Sea Country initiatives can succeed.

What you will Bring:

You are a credible and culturally responsive advisor who can translate complex law, policy and stakeholder interests into practical outcomes.

In addition to this, you will have -

• Tertiary qualification in Aboriginal policy, marine or environmental management, fisheries or natural resource management, or a related field, or extensive equivalent experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience providing technical or policy advice in marine governance, fisheries management or Aboriginal land and sea rights.
• Strong understanding of the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act 1976, Native Title Act 1993 and related NT and Commonwealth legislation governing sea rights.
• Proven ability to liaise and collaborate effectively with Aboriginal communities, government and industry in culturally responsive ways.
• For a full copy of the Position Description refer to the link provided below.                                                                                                                               

What’s in it for you?

At the NLC, you’ll be part of a team that’s grounded in purpose and committed to Country. You’ll lead work that matters - supporting Traditional Owners, protecting cultural knowledge, and enabling informed decision-making through the power of data. In return, you’ll enjoy a supportive workplace, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a lasting impact across the Northern Territory.      

We offer:

• A base salary of $119,571 per annum plus 15% superannuation on base and District allowance.
• Salary sacrificing up to $15,900 + Meal Entertainment and Holiday Accommodation benefits up to $2,650 per year.
• Other benefits under our Enterprise Agreement include:
  • District allowance of up to $4,884 (DA2) per annum for individuals with dependents and $2,678 (DA1) without dependents;
  • 5 weeks annual leave, leaving loading, 18 days personal leave;
  • Paid Christmas close down;
  • Upon completion of 12 months of service an Annual airfare with a net (in hand) value of $3,177;                                                                                                                                                                                            

The Northern Land Council is committed to increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment. This position is a prioritised position and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants who meet the selection requirements will be given priority consideration in accordance with the NLC's Special Measures provisions and Section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants should send a copy of their CV along with a cover letter outlining why you are interested in this position and what relevant skills and expertise you will bring to this role.

If you have any further queries, please contact Ashley Perez – Sea Country Manager on 0447 229 473

Applications Close: Tuesday, 15 September 2026

About the NLC:

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is an independent statutory authority of the Commonwealth. The NLC is established under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (NT) 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.