The Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism is seeking a respected Torres Strait Islander leader for the Commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa) role, based in Cairns. Established under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Act 2020, this pivotal role leads the independent assessment of cultural recognition order applications that give legal effect to Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing practices.

This is a CEO-level appointment for up to 3 years, with a salary package in line with Queensland public sector Chief Executive remuneration framework. Legal qualifications are highly regarded. Travel to Thursday Island and across Queensland is required.

Job details

The Queensland Government invites applications for the Commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa) - a culturally significant and legislatively established executive appointment. The Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism is seeking an exceptional Torres Strait Islander leader to take on this once-in-a-generation role, based in Cairns, Queensland. The position was established under the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, which provides a legal framework to recognise Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing practices.
As Commissioner, you will lead the independent assessment of cultural recognition order applications, providing legal recognition of Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing transfers of parentage. You will play a vital role in safeguarding cultural continuity, leading a small team, and advising the Minister on the operation of the Act and the office.

This is a CEO-level, statutory appointment for a term of up to three years. Remuneration is set by the Governor in Council and aligns with Queensland public sector Chief Executive remuneration framework.

Key responsibilities include:

• Independently consider and determine cultural recognition order applications.
• Provide advice to the Minister and promote public awareness of the Commissioner's role.
• Lead and manage the Office of the Commissioner to ensure effective performance.
• Collaborate with Torres Strait Islander communities, families, cultural leaders and other stakeholders.
• Prepare and submit annual reports to Parliament on the operation of the office

About you
To be eligible for this role under Section 11 of the Act, applicants must be a Torres Strait Islander person with qualifications, experience or standing appropriate to perform the functions of the office. Candidates with legal qualifications or experience are highly regarded, given the complex legal decision-making requirements of the role.

We are seeking a dynamic and collaborative executive with:

• In-depth understanding of Torres Strait Islander child rearing practice and its cultural significance.
• Experience in making complex decisions under legislation or administrative law.
• Strong leadership skills, including experience managing teams or programs.
• Highly developed communication, engagement and analytical skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully with community, government, and non-government stakeholders.

Shortlisted applicants will be required to complete detailed suitability documentation, including statutory declarations, criminal history checks, social media screening, and conflict of interest disclosures, as part of the recruitment process. As part of this recruitment process, suitably qualified applicants may also be considered for the role of Alternate Decision-Maker. This is a casual, on-call position that may be activated as needed to perform the functions of the Commissioner when the Commissioner is on leave or otherwise unavailable, as outlined in the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Act 2020.

How to apply
To apply, submit:
• A current CV
• A 2-page summary addressing your experience, skills and achievements relevant to the role, including your leadership style

Applications must be submitted via Smart Jobs: www.smartjobs.qld.gov.au 
For enquiries, contact Dani Fitzgerald, Senior Recruitment Consultant at 0405 430 072 or via email dani@shinepeoplesolutions.com.au 

Applications will remain current for a period of 12 months.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure to download any attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 646232 25 - Role Description (Word, 1.88MB)