Senior Aboriginal Cultural Liaison (50D)

About Derbarl

The Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service (DYHS) was established in 1974 and is the largest Aboriginal community-controlled health service provider in Western Australia, providing care to over 20,000 Aboriginal patients across four clinics in East Perth, Mirrabooka, Maddington and Midland. Our staff enable the delivery of culturally responsive primary health services, focusing on prevention, early intervention, comprehensive care and care coordination including chronic disease management. We are in an exciting phase of growth, innovation and service transformation — and we’re seeking an exceptional medical leader to help shape the next chapter.

The Opportunity

This Part-time senior role combines cultural leadership with direct client engagement to support the social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and families across the Perth metropolitan area. The Aboriginal Cultural Liaison provides cultural guidance, mentoring, and advocacy, while also coordinating and delivering SEWB and Aftercare services. The role ensures that all services are culturally safe, community-informed, and responsive to the holistic needs of clients, including mental health, cultural connection, and social support. This is a Maximum Term Part-time (0.5 FTE) contract which expires on 30 June 2027 (with possibility of extension).

Key Duties & Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Provide senior Aboriginal cultural leadership across services, programs and community engagement.
• Act as a cultural bridge between Aboriginal clients, families, community and clinical teams.
• Deliver culturally safe support through advocacy, yarning circles, group programs and outreach.
• Contribute to co-design and evaluation of culturally responsive, community-led services.
• Provide cultural mentoring and guidance to strengthen cultural safety across the organisation.
• Advocate for clients’ holistic wellbeing, including health, housing and social supports.
• Coordinate resources and emergency support for vulnerable community members.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Elders, community organisations and service partners.
• Support community events, health promotion and outreach activities.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders including SEWB Team, Aftercare Workers, Mental Health Clinicians, Health Promotions Team, Social Media Team and Administrative & Program staffs.
• Demonstrate flexibility to meet cultural obligations, community needs and emergency support.

Selection Criteria

1. Experience, Skills and Abilities:

• Recognised cultural authority or respected senior community leader.
• Strong understanding of Aboriginal culture, SEWB frameworks, and community needs.
• Demonstrated experience in culturally safe client support and advocacy.
• Proven ability to build relationships with Aboriginal families, communities, and service providers.
• Experience using Communicare or similar health information systems.
• Excellent communication, mentoring, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.

2. Desirable:

• Qualification in counselling, community services, or related field.
• Experience in suicide prevention, Aftercare, or SEWB programs.
• Knowledge of health and community services in the Perth metropolitan area.

3. Other Requirements:

• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander pursuant to Section 50D of the Equal Employment Opportunities Act (Essential).
• Satisfactory National Police Clearance which is not older than 6 months.
• Valid Drivers’ License and willingness to travel as required.
• Satisfactory Pre-Employment Health Assessment.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and participation in cultural safety training, induction, and compliance programs.
• Commitment to confidentiality, ethical practice, and culturally safe engagement at all times.

A copy of the full Position Description can be obtained by contacting People Services Team on 1800 311 888 or work@dyhs.org.au

How to Apply:

Please apply through SEEK, applications must include:

– Current Resume including current contact details; and

– Cover letter addressing the selection criteria (2 pages maximum) outlining your suitability for the role.

Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation is an equal opportunity institution, providing educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, colour, gender, age, or disability.

Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service reserves the right to contact the current or most recent employer and evaluate past employment records of applicants selected for interview.

The organisation reserves the right to re-advertise the position or to delay final selection if it is deemed that applicants for the position do not constitute an adequate applicant pool.

Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service Aboriginal Corporation is committed to a smoke free environment across all buildings, grounds and vehicles.