Job Description
About the Organisation:
A respected Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing specialist programs for Aboriginal women in the justice system. This organisation works holistically to strengthen cultural identity, connection, and wellbeing for women while they are in custody and post-release.
About the Role:
The Cultural Officer will work within the Aboriginal Healing Unit (AHU) team, supporting Aboriginal women at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre. This is a hands-on, culturally grounded role focused on building trust, connection, and community for women in custody.
You'll play a key role in promoting cultural wellbeing and empowerment through one-on-one support, group activities, and community engagement, including cultural programs, yarning circles, and practical life-skills activities such as cooking classes and cultural workshops.
This position is ideal for someone with strong cultural knowledge, community ties, and the ability to act as an aunty figure, offering guidance, support, and advocacy for Aboriginal women navigating incarceration.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide holistic cultural and emotional support to Aboriginal women in custody
- Facilitate cultural wellbeing activities and community connection programs
- Promote cultural safety and awareness across the prison environment
- Collaborate with AHU staff and partner organisations to ensure continuity of support
- Support women to maintain cultural identity, belonging, and resilience
- Assist with day-to-day wellbeing needs within the unit, including practical life skills sessions
Key Selection Criteria:
- Identified Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander female position (required under Section 28 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010)
- Relevant qualification (e.g. Diploma in Community Services or equivalent experience)
- Strong cultural knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal women's experiences
- Experience working in prisons, justice, or community settings (desirable)
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team
- Reliable and mature approach - acting as a positive cultural role model
Additional Requirements:
- Current driver's licence
- Police and Working with Children Checks
- Full-time onsite position - no remote or flexible work options
Benefits:
- SCHADS Award pay + salary packaging + super
- Work within a culturally grounded, community-led organisation
- Support Aboriginal women's healing and empowerment in custody
- Join a supportive, values-driven team within the Aboriginal Healing Unit
Interested?
For further information, please contact Greg Camm at greg.camm@twrecruitment.com.au or (03) 9110 0095.
