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Senior Engagement Officer
Indigenous Land Operations; Native Title and Indigenous Land Services; Lands; Cairns
Join the Native Title and Indigenous Land Services team in Cairns and play a key role in the careful preparation and coordination that underpins Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land outcomes. This role focuses on the administrative and legislative side of tenure resolution and Indigenous Land Use Agreements — the foundation of every successful land transfer. Your attention to detail, understanding of Indigenous culture, and ability to navigate complex government processes will ensure culturally respectful, accurate and compliant outcomes that matter.
Discover a purpose driven career with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, and unleash your potential to grow. Join LANDS NRMMRRD #DeliveringforQueensland!
Job details
| Position status | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Administration |
| Classification | AO6 |
| Workplace Location | Cairns region |
| Job ad reference | QLD/-671664/25 |
| Closing date | 10-Dec-2025 |
| Job duration | |
| Contact person | Shane Forester |
| Contact details | Phone: 04 2757 5892 Access the National Relay Service |
As a Senior Engagement Officer with the Native Title and Indigenous Land Services (NTILS) team, you'll coordinate administrative and statutory work underpinning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land outcomes. Based in Cairns, this role suits someone meticulous, organised, and committed to accuracy. Your days will involve researching land tenure, interpreting legislation, preparing reports and maps, and coordinating the documentation required to deliver Indigenous Land Use Agreements and land transfers under the Aboriginal Land Act
1991 and Torres Strait Islander Land Act 1991. You'll work closely with internal teams and government agencies to ensure every step is properly documented, culturally appropriate and compliant with legislation.
Each project involves detailed and often extended periods of detailed administrative and research work before engagement with First Nations People, communities and their representatives begins. You'll handle these critical early stages — gathering evidence, coordinating tenure packages, and managing the administrative processes that set projects up for success.
We're looking for someone with:
•Strong experience managing complex administrative, legislative or policy-based processes within a land, legal or government setting.
•Ability to interpret and apply legislation, policies and procedures to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• Understanding of, or experience working with, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with demonstrated awareness of cultural protocols and community sensitivities.
• Strong organisational, analytical and research skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
•Knowledge or the ability to quickly acquire knowledge of systems such as Microsoft 365, SharePoint and land databases (e.g. ATS, QLD Globe).
• A proactive and collaborative approach, with a commitment to quality outcomes and cultural respect.
• Highly Desirable: Demonstrated First Nation Cultural Capabilities.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.
To apply, please submit:
•A copy of your current resume (3-4 pages recommended).
• A brief cover letter (1-2 pages) showcasing your skills, knowledge, attributes and experience detailed in the “how to apply” section of the attached role profile.
Why work for us?
The Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development (NRMMRRD) plays a critical role in supporting Queenslanders across the state—from Cairns to Mount Isa to Warwick—by delivering strong regional outcomes, fostering local economies, and strengthening government community partnerships. As stewards of over 60% of Queensland's land and key supporters of industries such as mining and manufacturing, our reach and impact are vast.
We are committed to putting our people first—empowering staff, celebrating success, and encouraging innovation. Our workplace is mobile, flexible, inclusive and respectful, and we are focused on growing united, capable leaders. For more information, visit:
https://www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/about-us/careers/who-we-are
We offer:
• Competitive superannuation and salary sacrificing options
• Flexible working options supporting work-life balance
• Generous leave provisions across the Queensland public sector
• Professional career development and training opportunities
• The chance to help #DeliveringforQueensland! and be part of Queensland's long-term prosperity
To learn more about the benefits of working with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, visit: https://www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/about-us/careers
Further information
We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.
Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.
Documents
Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.
