What Is an Identified Position? A Guide for Indigenous Job Seekers in Australia
If you have been browsing job listings on the Barayamal First Nations Job Board or other employment sites in Australia, you have probably come across the term 'identified position.' But what does it actually mean, and how does it affect your job search as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person? This guide breaks it down clearly.
What Is an Identified Position?
An identified position is a role within an organisation where being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent is considered a genuine occupational requirement. These positions are legally allowed under special measures provisions in anti-discrimination legislation, including the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth) and various state and territory equal opportunity laws.
In practical terms, an identified position means the role involves duties that require an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, communities or issues. The employer has determined that having an Indigenous person in the role is essential for the position to be performed effectively.
Identified vs Designated Positions
It is important to understand the difference between identified and designated positions, as they are often confused.
An identified position is open to all applicants, but Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage is considered a strong advantage or genuine qualification for the role. Non-Indigenous people can technically apply, but candidates who can demonstrate cultural knowledge and lived experience will be prioritised.
A designated position, on the other hand, is exclusively open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants. Only Indigenous people can apply for these roles. Designated positions are typically used when the connection to community and culture is fundamental to every aspect of the job.
You will often see phrases like 'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply' on identified positions, whereas designated roles will clearly state that applicants must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.
Why Do Identified Positions Exist?
Identified positions exist to address systemic disadvantage and to ensure that services delivered to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are culturally appropriate, safe and effective. They recognise that certain roles require deep cultural understanding that comes from lived experience as a First Nations person.
Common sectors where you will find identified positions include health and wellbeing, education and training, community services, government and policy, and legal and justice. These are all areas where cultural competence is not just a bonus but a core requirement of the role.
How to Find Identified Positions
The Barayamal Jobs board is one of the best places to find identified and designated positions across Australia and Canada. With over 400 active listings, you can search by category, location and job type to find roles that match your skills and career goals.
Some of the most popular categories for identified positions on our board include Health & Wellbeing jobs, Education & Training jobs, Community Services jobs, and Government & Policy jobs.
You can also browse roles by location, including Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Darwin, Brisbane and many regional and remote areas.
Tips for Applying for Identified Positions
When applying for an identified position, your application should address how your cultural knowledge and connections are relevant to the role. Here are some practical tips to strengthen your application.
First, read the position description carefully. Look for the selection criteria that specifically relate to cultural knowledge, community engagement or experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Make sure your cover letter and resume directly address these criteria with specific examples from your experience.
Second, be prepared to provide a Confirmation of Aboriginality. Most identified and designated positions require this as part of the application process. This is typically a letter or statutory declaration from an incorporated Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation confirming your identity and community connection.
Third, highlight both your professional qualifications and your cultural strengths. Employers advertising identified positions value the unique perspective and community trust that Indigenous employees bring. Do not underestimate the importance of your cultural expertise alongside your formal skills.
Start Your Search Today
Whether you are looking for your first role, changing careers, or seeking a position where your cultural identity is genuinely valued, the Barayamal First Nations Job Board is here to help. Browse our full list of jobs or post a job for free if you are an employer committed to Indigenous employment.