Anthropologist - [Archived Advertisement]

Anthropologist

About the role

The Research Unit (RU) undertakes anthropological and historical research dedicated to increasing our knowledge and understanding of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung ancestors, Country and culture to further the aims of the Corporation and community.

The primary function of this role is to conduct anthropological research and prepare reports for the purposes of the Wurundjeri Corporation’s activities in relation to the Native Title Act 1993, Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010. The anthropologist will also provide advice and support to the Boundary Negotiation Sub-Committee. Other duties include carrying out the services provided by the Research Unit: preparation of cultural values studies, facilitation of project meetings, workshops and on-Country activities, and review of documentary materials.

About us

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation is a Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) appointed under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic.). We represent the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Traditional Owners of Melbourne and the Greater Melbourne region, and we take great pride in our responsibility for protecting and managing Aboriginal cultural heritage objects and places on Wurundjeri Country. The Corporation offers a range of cultural services including environmental land management, cross-cultural education, traditional Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremonies, research, and cultural consultations. 

Key responsibilities

• Undertake anthropological research including the preparation of reports related to the above-mentioned legislation.
• Compile ethnographic and ethnohistorical information in support of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung’s extent of Country interests.
• Coordinate Wurundjeri Corporation’s involvement in boundary negotiations and agreement making and administrative support to the Boundary Negotiation Sub-Committee.
• Facilitate Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung engagement with external stakeholders and support consultation processes.
• Support the Research Unit to engage with units across the Wurundjeri Corporation to provide relevant cultural information.
• Demonstrated research ability to assist in the delivery of a Wurundjeri culture research programme.
• Support the Research Unit to engage with units across the Wurundjeri Corporation to provide relevant cultural information.
• Providing research assistance to support cultural values services under direction. 
• Ability to develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with other Wurundjeri Corporation staff, the Wurundjeri Community, research institutions, government and other stakeholders.
• Ability to develop and maintain processes and systems that: 
• Record, securely store and provide appropriate access to Wurundjeri cultural information. 
• Provide expert research assistance and advice.
• Identify, in conjunction with your manager, areas for both personal and professional development, in line with your career development plan.
• Promote a safe and environmentally sound working environment and a culture of safe and responsible behaviours and attitudes. 

About you

• Postgraduate degree in anthropology (Honours or above). 
• Membership, or eligibility for membership, of the Australian Anthropological Society.
• Applied experience working with Indigenous Australian communities including experience negotiating on behalf of Traditional Owner groups.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and/or experience with relevant legislation including the Native Title Act 1993, Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010.
• A proven track record in ethnographic and qualitative research.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to undertake ethnographic and ethnohistorical research and analysis and apply this to modern extent of Country interests.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to work to tight timeframes and manage a range of work tasks.
• The ability to conduct all duties in a confidential and culturally sensitive manner.
• Self-managed, able and take the initiative.
• Demonstrated ability to work as a team member in a collaborative and collegial manner.
• Demonstrated research ability to assist in the delivery of a Wurundjeri culture research programme.
• Knowledge and appreciation of Aboriginal cultures and associated matters including cultural safety and social issues.
• Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be highly regarded.

What we offer

• Collaborative supportive team environment. 
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Professional Development.
• Work autonomously and as part of a team.
• New offices with free car parking.

*Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander applicants are encouraged to apply*

If this sounds like you, please apply with your resume and cover letter. If you would like a full PD, please email HR@wurundjeri.com.au.