Cultural Heritage Advisor in Torquay

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is responsible for protecting and managing one of Australia’s most iconic coastal landscapes. We care for parks, reserves and marine environments along the Great Ocean Road, including internationally recognised visitor sites. Working closely with Traditional Owners, communities and stakeholders, we protect environmental, cultural and heritage values while supporting sustainable visitation and long‑term conservation.

About the Role

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is seeking an experienced Cultural Heritage Advisor to lead and strengthen our approach to Aboriginal cultural heritage and Native Title management across the Great Ocean Road region.

Working within our Planning Team, you will provide expert advice and strategic guidance to ensure cultural heritage considerations are embedded across projects, operations and organisational decision-making. You will play a key role in building strong, respectful relationships with Traditional Owners and supporting the Authority to meet its legislative, operational and social responsibilities.

This is a unique opportunity to combine cultural heritage expertise with meaningful partnership-building, helping to protect and celebrate the rich cultural values of one of Victoria's most significant coastal environments.

What You'll Do

• Provide specialist advice on Aboriginal cultural heritage and Native Title matters across a diverse range of projects and operational activities.
• Identify and manage cultural heritage risks early in project planning to support compliance and best practice outcomes.
• Build and maintain productive relationships with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal communities and key stakeholders.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, frameworks and training programs that strengthen organisational capability in cultural heritage management.
• Support compliance with statutory approvals, agreements and legislative obligations through effective monitoring, reporting and record management.
• Manage cultural heritage consultants, procurement processes and contracts to ensure quality project delivery.
• Facilitate culturally appropriate engagement and support Indigenous participation in project planning and delivery.
• Prepare high-quality reports, briefings and advice for management, executives and governance bodies.
• Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement initiatives that deliver positive outcomes for both the Authority and Traditional Owners.

What We're Looking For

You are an experienced cultural heritage professional with strong knowledge of Victorian Aboriginal cultural heritage legislation, Native Title processes and Traditional Owner engagement.

You will bring:

• A tertiary qualification in cultural heritage, archaeology or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience managing Aboriginal cultural heritage matters in Victoria.
• Strong understanding of the legislative and regulatory frameworks governing cultural heritage protection and Native Title.
• Experience developing policies, systems or programs that improve organisational capability and compliance.
• A proven ability to build trusted relationships with Traditional Owners, government agencies, consultants and community stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong project management capability, including managing competing priorities and complex projects.
• A genuine commitment to cultural respect, collaboration and improving outcomes for Aboriginal communities.

Why Join Us?

At the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, you'll be part of an organisation with a clear purpose: protecting and enhancing one of Australia's most treasured coastal landscapes for future generations.

We offer:

• The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to cultural heritage outcomes and Traditional Owner partnerships.
• Diverse and impactful work across coastal reserves, national parks, marine environments and visitor destinations.
• A collaborative, values-driven workplace committed to sustainability, cultural respect and community outcomes.
• The chance to influence strategic decision-making and organisational capability in cultural heritage management.
• Flexible working arrangements and a supportive team environment.
• Ongoing professional development and opportunities for growth.

Join us and help shape the future of cultural heritage management across the Great Ocean Road region while building lasting partnerships that honour and protect Country, culture and community.

Everyone is welcome at the Authority

Here at the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority we are committed to creating a workforce that is diverse and is inclusive of all. We value and embrace the various experiences and perspectives people may have, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, cultural background, disability, or sexual orientation.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we work and live and all First Nations peoples, and we pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Applications close 11.59pm Wednesday, 19th August 2026.