Senior Lecturer (Aboriginal Health and Culture)

• Shape the future of Aboriginal health outcomes through culturally informed leadership, research and education in rural and remote communities.
• Join a nationally recognised rural health centre and lead impactful, community-driven initiatives across Western Australia.
• Identified position: This role is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only, in accordance with Section 50(d) of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA).
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a tenurable.
• Base salary range: Level C, $144,143.00 – $165,809 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The Western Australian Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) is a key part of a national network of University Departments of Rural Health, administered by The University of Western Australia. With a strong presence across the Midwest and Pilbara, WACRH operates from Geraldton, Karratha and Carnarvon.

WACRH is committed to improving health outcomes in rural and remote communities by:

• Preparing the next generation of rural health professionals
• Delivering innovative education and training
• Conducting applied, community-focused research

A core priority is partnering with Aboriginal communities to strengthen culturally safe care, support workforce development, and improve long-term health and wellbeing outcomes.

About the opportunity

This is a senior academic leadership role focused on advancing Aboriginal health, culture and engagement across WACRH’s programs, research and partnerships.

You will provide strategic leadership across education, research and community engagement, working closely with Aboriginal communities, Community Controlled Organisations and internal stakeholders. The role has a strong focus on co-design, culturally safe practice, and translating research into meaningful outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading Aboriginal health strategy and embedding cultural capability across WACRH
• Driving innovative teaching and training programs focused on Aboriginal health and engagement
• Building strong partnerships with Aboriginal communities and organisations
• Leading and contributing to high-quality research, including qualitative methodologies (e.g. yarning circles, interviews, community-based research)
• Supporting and mentoring Aboriginal staff and contributing to workforce development locally and nationally
• Representing WACRH on key committees and contributing to university-wide initiatives

This is a unique opportunity to influence policy, practice and education while making a tangible impact on health outcomes for Aboriginal communities.

About you 

You are a culturally grounded leader with a strong commitment to improving Aboriginal health outcomes and advancing community-led solutions.

We are looking for:

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, with a strong research track record including peer-reviewed publications is desirable
• Demonstrated experience working respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal communities, including community engagement and co-design
• Proven leadership in teaching and developing culturally informed education or training programs
• Strong qualitative research capability, with experience in community-based methodologies (e.g. yarning circles, interviews, focus groups) highly regarded
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work across communities, government, and academic environments

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current National Police Clearance, Working with Children Check, and “C” class driver’s licence will be required by the successful applicant.

Aboriginality is considered a genuine occupational qualification for this role as per Section 50D Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA). Therefore, only applications from Aboriginal or Torres strait islander people will be considered.

Position description:  PD - Senior Lecturer (Aboriginal Health and Culture) 523607.pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Kara Chapman at kara.chapman@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday 12 July 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities.

With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Queries regarding  indigenous aspects of the role may be directed to indigenous.workforce@uwa.edu.au Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.