First Nations Strategy Lead

About the role

This Identified role will provide culturally grounded, enterprise‑level leadership that drives the development, governance, and delivery of Sydney Water’s First Nations Strategy, ensuring First Nations perspectives, rights, aspirations, and cultural authority shape organisational decisions, services, infrastructure planning, and community outcomes.

The role strengthens Sydney Water’s commitment to self‑determination, Country‑centred practice, cultural safety, reconciliation, and equity by embedding First Nations knowledge, governance, capability, and engagement across all parts of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the co-design, implementation, and continual improvement of Sydney Water’s First Nations Strategy.
• Develop frameworks, policies, action plans, annual reporting cycles and long-term roadmaps with community guidance.
• Champion the uplift of cultural capability across the organisation, ensuring First Nations worldviews are included in decision making.
• Build strong, respectful relationships with Traditional Custodians, LALCs, Elders, knowledge holders and ACCOs, ensuring their voices guide decisions that impact Country and communities.
• Lead the First Nations Strategy Specialist and Project Support Officer to drive the development and implementation of Sydney Water’s First Nations Strategy alongside delivery of the existing program of work.
• Advise on cultural considerations in infrastructure planning, environmental programs, customer experience, and corporate strategy.

Essential Requirements: 

• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage (this is an identified position and an essential requirement under s.14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 NSW or equivalent legislation).
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person with strong cultural knowledge and established community relationships.
• Deep understanding of cultural protocols, Lore, community dynamics, and Country based knowledge systems.
• Demonstrated senior level experience leading First Nations strategy, policy, or programs in a complex organisation.
• Experience advising Executives or senior leaders on First Nations matters, systemic risks and opportunities.

This is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identified position. The role is open to, and applications will only be accepted from, people who identify as Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples pursuant to the exemption granted to Sydney Water under s126 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977(NSW) sections 8 and 51.

Closing Date: Tuesday 26^th May

Please advise if you require any adjustments to actively participate in the application and recruitment process. Please contact Connor.May@sydneywater.com.au

Please note as part of the application process, you will be asked to undergo background checks which includes a criminal history check.

You must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident at the time of submitting your application to be considered for this role.

Why join us? 

At Sydney Water, your work will make a real difference in people’s lives—and your own. With diverse projects and roles, you'll find ample career growth opportunities.

At Sydney Water, we actively seek and celebrate diversity, equity, inclusion, and individuality., fostering a safe environment where everyone can thrive and shape impactful community projects. We offer flexible working arrangements and opportunities for career progression among our many benefits. 

Dive into Our Great Benefits: 

Competitive Remuneration: We’ll ensure that your skills and contributions are valued and rewarded appropriately. 

Hybrid Work Environment: We offer a hybrid work model that balances remote work and office collaboration, supporting our team's productivity and well-being. 

Continuous Professional Growth: We will invest in your career with leadership and development programs to propel your success. 

24/7 Wellbeing Support: Access for you and your family to free and confidential mental health and general health support through our EAP portal. 

Discounted Private Health Insurance: Unlock affordable access to top-tier health coverage with our discounted insurance plans. 

Family First: Prioritise your family with up to 18 weeks of fully paid parental leave and a childcare allowance. 

Fitness Passport: Achieve your physical fitness goals using our Fitness Passport, granting you access to a multitude of gyms and pools across NSW. 

Novated Leasing: Get in the driver's seat of your financial future with our novated lease options. 

As part of the application process, Sydney Water will be collecting your personal information to assess your suitability for the role. We will also use your personal information to establish a LiveHire talent profile in our Talent Community. 

Your personal information will be collected in accordance with LiveHire’s Terms,  and Sydney Water’s Privacy Collection Statement – Job Application.