Assistant Director, National Sector Strengthening

We encourage and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and mature age people.

About the organisation
The Coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peak Organisations (Coalition of Peaks) is a representative body of more than 80 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled peak organisations and members who have come together to work in partnership with Australian governments to improve the life outcomes for our people. The Coalition of Peaks share a belief that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should have a meaningful say on policies and programs related to Closing the Gap through formal partnerships with Australian governments at all levels. The Peaks Policy and Secretariat Team (Secretariat) supports the work of the Coalition of Peaks, providing high level and comprehensive policy and strategic advice to Peaks Members, to support the implementation and monitoring of actions in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

About the role
The Assistant Director, National Sector Strengthening plays a vital leadership role in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled peak organisations to implement sector strengthening plans under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. Working closely with the Director and leading a small, high-performing team, the Assistant Director is responsible for driving collaboration, capacity-building, and impact measurement across national initiatives.

This position is central to facilitating Communities of Practice, developing strategic guidance and policy resources, and ensuring consistent support for Coalition of Peaks Members as they develop and deliver their sector plans. The role requires strong stakeholder engagement skills, cultural competence, and the ability to navigate complex policy environments to influence systemic reform. This is an opportunity to work alongside national leaders and contribute directly to structural change that empowers First Nations communities.

For a full list of responsibilities for the above roles, please contact Pipeline Talent via [email protected].


About you
You will bring a foundation of effective engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders with a demonstrated understanding of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. You work well in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and have the ability to adjust as priorities change.
You will be able to apply your policy, research or advocacy skills to achieve the objectives of the team. You are collaborative and a team player, who shares their knowledge and expertise with others to build capabilities across the team.
As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisation, the Coalition of Peaks is committed to growing and supporting the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce in our sector. We strongly encourage any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply for these roles, regardless of your previous experience. The Coalition of Peaks values Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of being, doing and knowing as core skills to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of all positions in our organisation.

Key Selection Criteria

1. Proven ability to deliver high-level policy advice and lead complex projects aligned with government reform, particularly in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contexts.
2. Deep understanding of First Nations issues and strong commitment to self-determination, cultural safety, and the Closing the Gap framework.
3. Strong track record of building respectful partnerships across sectors, including community-controlled organisations and government.
4. Experience managing small teams in dynamic settings, fostering collaboration, accountability, and results.
5. Skilled in implementing and monitoring initiatives, using evaluation and reporting to drive outcomes and continuous improvement.
6. Excellent written and verbal skills, with the ability to distil complex ideas into clear, accessible formats for varied audiences.
7. Sound judgment, initiative, and the ability to navigate complex environments with professionalism, flexibility, and purpose.

What we can offer you

• Generous not-for-profit Salary Packaging benefits (up to $18,550)
• Job satisfaction including excellent opportunities to grow one’s skills
• 15% Superannuation
• It is preferred that the position is based in Canberra, however, remote working may be considered for the right candidate. A small relocation allowance, up to $2,000 may be considered for a successful non-Canberra based candidate who is prepared to relocate.

How to apply
All applications must be made in writing and include the following:

• Up to date CV
• Cover letter (maximum 3 pages) addressing the 7 selection criteria above, outlining why you have applied for the position and how you meet the requirements of the position.

Applications are to be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website.

Applications close 11:59PM Monday 4 August 2025.  Late applications will not be accepted.  

How to get more information
For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.

Megan Ingram
Senior Recruitment Consultant
[email protected] | [email protected]
M 0419 599 251| PH 02 8001 6603