Executive Officer to the Chairperson

Location: Darwin

Status: Full-time, Ongoing

About the Role

The Executive Officer to the Chairperson plays a pivotal role in supporting the leadership, governance, and cultural responsibilities of the Northern Land Council (NLC). Working closely with the Chairperson, you will provide high-level executive and administrative support, ensuring the effective coordination of Council business, strategic priorities, and meaningful engagement with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal communities, and key stakeholders.

In this role, you will manage the Chairperson's schedule, prepare high-quality correspondence and briefings, accompany the Chairperson to meetings and official engagements, and ensure timely follow-up of key actions and decisions. You will coordinate Council-related projects and policy research while maintaining a strong commitment to cultural respect, confidentiality, and the protocols that underpin engagement with Aboriginal people and communities across the Top End.

Success in this position requires exceptional organisational and relationship-management skills, sound judgement, and a genuine appreciation of Aboriginal cultures, perspectives, and governance structures. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced professional who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys working at the intersection of governance, policy, and Aboriginal affairs, and is committed to supporting the NLC's role in advocating for and representing the interests of Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people.

What You Will Bring

You are a culturally aware and politically astute professional who thrives in complex environments and understands the significance of Aboriginal leadership and representation. You bring exceptional organisational, communication, and governance skills, coupled with the ability to work respectfully and effectively with Traditional Owners, Council members, senior leaders, government representatives, and community stakeholders. You are adept at managing sensitive issues with discretion, fostering positive relationships, and ensuring the Chairperson is well supported in advancing the Northern Land Council's strategic and cultural objectives.

In addition, you will have:

• Minimum 4 years’ experience in a similar executive support or governance role
• Strong understanding of corporate governance, preferably within Aboriginal organisations, statutory authorities, or government
• Proven ability to manage confidential information and competing priorities under pressure
• Degree in Law, Public Policy, or Indigenous Studies (or equivalent) Highly desirable

For more Information, please refer to position description via the link below

Why Join the NLC?

This is a rare opportunity to help to contribute directly to Aboriginal leadership and representation in the Northern Territory. You will work in a dynamic environment that values integrity, respect, and collaboration, supporting Traditional Owners and Aboriginal communities through governance and policy excellence.

We offer:

• A base salary of $106,576 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 $4,884.12 per annum for individuals with dependents and $2,678.04 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

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 experiences you will bring to the role.

This position is designated under Special Measures, with priority consideration for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants under section 57 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1996 (NT)

For further queries please contact: Dorrelle Anderson 0458 411 894

Applications Close: Monday 14 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.