• UQ Library – Join a library with a strong commitment to reconciliation, cultural inclusion and a diverse workforce.

• This position is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates only, as a genuine occupational requirement due to the cultural expertise, community engagement and leadership required to support Indigenous knowledge, collections and initiatives across UQ.

• Full-time fixed-term position until September 2028 (planned leave coverage).

• Base salary will be in the range $106,709 - $116,198 plus 17% superannuation (HEW Level 7).

• Based at our Vibrant St Lucia Campus.

Acknowledgement of Country 

The University of Queensland (UQ) acknowledges the Traditional Owners and their custodianship of the lands on which UQ operates. We pay our respects to their Ancestors and their descendants, who continue cultural and spiritual connections to Country. We recognise their valuable contributions to Australian and global society. 

About This Opportunity  

As Principal Advisor, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services & Collections, you will help shape how Indigenous knowledge, collections and cultural materials are respected, protected and shared across one of Australia's leading universities.

Working closely with stakeholders across UQ's libraries, academic communities and professional teams, you will provide high-level specialist advice, facilitate engagement activities, contribute to the implementation of Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property frameworks, and help ensure culturally appropriate approaches are embedded in practice.

You will play an important role in supporting the stewardship, protection and future use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge and collections across UQ, helping advance teaching, learning and research outcomes while strengthening the University's commitment to reconciliation and cultural respect.

Applicants are advised that collection materials they may interact with in this role may contain images, voices, and videos of deceased persons. Items within the collection may also include language, descriptions, terms, or annotations that are culturally sensitive and reflective of the attitudes and perspectives of the period in which they were created, and which may be considered inappropriate today.

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Lead and support strategic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement initiatives across the University.

• Provide expert advice on the care, assessment and management of Indigenous knowledge and culturally significant collection materials.

• Build strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders to support teaching, learning and research outcomes.

• Contribute to the implementation and continuous improvement of Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property frameworks and practices.

• Mentor and support team members through knowledge-sharing, capability development and culturally informed guidance.

• Promote culturally safe, respectful and inclusive practices that recognise and value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges and perspectives.

For further information, please click here to view the information booklet.

About You   

The University of Queensland considers that to perform this role, it is essential that the person is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. It is therefore a genuine occupational requirement under section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld). The successful candidate will be required to provide evidence to confirm that they are an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. 

• Demonstrated knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, communities and protocols, and the ability to apply this knowledge in a professional environment.

• Experience providing specialist advice, influencing stakeholders and contributing to strategic initiatives or projects.

• Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams and disciplines.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage, advise, educate and influence a broad range of audiences.

• Experience supporting culturally safe practices and delivering positive outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

• A commitment to mentoring, collaboration and knowledge-sharing

At UQ, we value diverse experiences and perspectives. We understand that no candidate is likely to tick every box, and we're interested in hearing from people who can bring their unique skills, lived experience, knowledge and passion to the role. If you feel you can contribute to our work and help advance positive outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities, we encourage you to apply.

About UQ 

As part of the UQ community, you will work alongside bright minds from around the world, united by a shared commitment to creating a better world. Excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued, and staff are supported through a wide range of benefits, including up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% superannuation, 17.5% leave loading, flexible and hybrid working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on‑campus childcare, affordable parking, salary packaging, and cultural leave. 

UQ is committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ learning, discovery and engagement, and to playing a leading role in reconciliation in Australia. Guided by our Strategic Plan, Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy, we work in partnership with communities to embed reconciliation across our operations. You will be supported to connect with vibrant staff networks, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network, and your cultural identity will be respected, valued and embraced. 

Interested? 

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Lesley Acres on [email protected]. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.  

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted. 

Other Information  

Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia and criminal history checks. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.  

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing [email protected] or calling +61 7 3365 2623. 

Applications close Sunday 20 September 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-68052).