Research Roles – Director, First Nations Lead (Identified)
01/04/2026
23/04/2026
Permanent - Full Time
Melbourne CBD
Other
About Us
The Social Research Centre (SRC) is Australia’s trusted evidence partner, delivering world-class, ethical and culturally-sound social research and evaluation. We work with governments, not-for-profits, academia and mission-aligned organisations to support informed decision-making and advance understanding of Australian society.
Our work spans large-scale surveys, qualitative research and mixed methods studies across areas such as health and wellbeing, education and training, employment, social cohesion, equity and justice, and the experiences of marginalised communities.
Purpose of the role
The Director, First Nations Lead provides strategic, cultural and research leadership to ensure that First Nations knowledges, perspectives and priorities are embedded across the organisation’s research agenda, ways of working and external impact.
The role is responsible for leading First Nations–led and First Nations‑centred research, strengthening ethical, culturally safe and accountable practice, and supporting the organisation to move beyond symbolic inclusion toward systemic change, influence and leadership by First Nations peoples.
This role exists to ensure First Nations research is led with, by and for community, and that the organisation’s work contributes to improved outcomes, accountability and self‑determination.
Job Description
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
Provide organisation‑wide leadership on First Nations research strategy, priorities and partnerships.
Shape and influence the organisation’s research agenda to ensure First Nations voices, data sovereignty and community priorities are central.
Act as a senior advisor to the Executive and Board on First Nations matters, including cultural authority, risk and opportunity.
Research Leadership and Quality
Lead the design, delivery and governance of First Nations‑led research, including qualitative, quantitative and mixed‑methods projects.
Ensure research adheres to high ethical standards, including Indigenous Data Sovereignty, cultural governance and community accountability.
Translate research findings into policy‑relevant, practical and culturally grounded insights that inform decision‑making and reform.
Community and Sector Engagement
Build and maintain trusted relationships with First Nations communities, organisations, researchers and leaders.
Represent the organisation externally in national forums, partnerships and public conversations relating to First Nations research and outcomes.
Support genuine, long‑term partnerships rather than transactional or extractive research relationships.
Organisational Capability and Culture
Build internal capability by mentoring First Nations staff and supporting pathways into senior research and leadership roles.
Guide non‑First Nations colleagues to work respectfully, ethically and effectively in First Nations contexts.
Contribute to a culturally safe workplace where First Nations staff are supported, valued and able to lead.
People Leadership
Lead, mentor and support First Nations researchers and team members, fostering professional growth and wellbeing.
Champion career development pathways that enable progression into senior and executive roles.
Demonstrated leadership experience in First Nations research, policy, evaluation or related fields.
Deep understanding of First Nations contexts, cultures and community priorities.
Strong track record in leading complex research or strategy projects with integrity and impact.
Ability to translate research into policy, practice and influence.
Highly developed relationship‑building and communication skills.
Desirable
Postgraduate qualifications or equivalent experience in social research, public policy, evaluation or a related discipline.
Experience working at executive or senior leadership level.
Experience influencing systems, institutions or large organisations.
What Success Looks Like
First Nations research is demonstrably led by First Nations people and aligned to community priorities.
The organisation is recognised as a trusted, ethical and influential ally in First Nations research.
First Nations staff experience meaningful leadership opportunities, cultural safety and progression pathways.
Research outputs contribute to tangible policy, practice and systems change.
Desired Skills and Experience
Values and Ways of Working
This role is grounded in respect, reciprocity, accountability and self‑determination. The Director, First Nations Lead exercises authority with humility, cultural responsibility and a strong commitment to collective impact.
About You
We are keen to hear from candidates who:
Have experience in social, government or policy research and/or evaluation, or a closely related fields, this may include leadership roles in research adjacent positions.
Have strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex findings clearly to non-technical audiences
Are committed to high-quality, ethical and culturally-sound research, continuous learning and positive social impact
What We Offer
Permanent, full-time roles working on nationally significant social and public policy projects
A collaborative and inclusive culture, with multidisciplinary teams across research, statistics and methods, data science, operations and corporate services
Professional development and career growth, including coaching, feedback and access to methodological expertise
Flexible, hybrid working arrangements from our Melbourne CBD office, in line with SRC policy
A range of employee benefits, including paid parental leave, cultural leave, profit-sharing and referral bonuses (where applicable), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), regular social events and annual flu vaccinations.
How to Apply
Please submit:
Your CV, and
A brief cover letter or equivalent statement outlining:
Your interest in social research and evaluation
Your experience in leading change
Your desire to influence social policy and impact.
Applications should be submitted via our online application form or through this advertisement on Seek, LinkedIn or other nominated job boards.
Recruitment support
The Social Research Centre is working with Paul Paulson from the Nahri Institute to support a culturally safe recruitment process. Please contact Paul Paulson paul@nahri.com.auif you have any questions about the recruitment process.
Accessibility and adjustments
If you require an adjustment to participate in the recruitment process, or if you are unable to apply via the online portal or provide a written cover letter, please contact recruitment@srcentre.com.au. We will work with you to provide a reasonable adjustment or alternative application method.
Work rights
Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia for the expected duration of employment. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorships for these roles.
Privacy
The Social Research Centre handles applicant personal information in accordance with its Recruitment and Selection Policy.
The Social Research Centre values diversity and believes that an inclusive and fair work environment has a positive impact on employee wellbeing, job satisfaction and productivity. We encourage applications from people of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, and people with disability.
This is an identified position under the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic). In accordance with section 12 (Special measures), the role is open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples. Applicants will be required to confirm their Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity.
