Imagine yourself in a role where you can influence and inspire, contributing to meaningful conversations and decisions through an Aboriginal lens and viewpoint, creating a new tomorrow for the community.

The Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (ACM) Victoria is seeking a passionate and dedicated Coordinator to lead initiatives that support the spiritual needs of Indigenous Catholics across Victoria.

About the role:

This role honors and integrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and culture with Catholic beliefs and traditions. It fosters shared understanding, promotes reconciliation, and provides pastoral care to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics in living out their faith.

The ACMV Coordinator, supported by two direct reports (the Office Administrator and Engagement Officer), will represent the challenges of Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander peoples and act as an advocate on their behalf working in collaboration with the Victorian Catholic Bishops and the Office of the Archbishop in communicating advocacy for Indigenous related policy and campaigns.

This position is available as either a full-time role or part-time at 0.8 or 0.6 FTE (Full-Time Equivalent).

Key Responsibilities:

• People Leadership: Support, coach and develop team members.
• Strategy: Contribute to the identification of Proclaim: Office of Mission Renewal priorities and annual goals.
• Initiative Development: Create and share initiatives, formation programs, and resources that address the spiritual needs of Indigenous Catholics across Victoria.
• State-wide Engagement: Encourage and facilitate engagement, empowerment, and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics throughout the state.
• Education and Workshops: Support the Engagement Office in the delivery of workshops and educational programs for parishes that enhance understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their cultures, and spirituality.
• Sacramental and Funeral Support: Assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families in preparing for the Sacraments of Initiation and funeral arrangements.
• Community Relations: Establish and maintain strong relationships with local Elders, providing updates on ACM activities and ensuring cultural alignment.
• Liturgical Support: Coordinate and provide advice for diocesan liturgical celebrations that incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions.
• Budget Management: Monitor and manage the ACM budget, ensuring responsible financial oversight.

About You:

• You are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, with a strong connection to community and culture.
• You demonstrate an understanding and alignment to the values and teachings of the Catholic Church, with the ability to integrate these into all aspects of the role.
• You have an in-depth knowledge of Indigenous culture and spirituality.
• You are familiar with the structure, organisations, and ministries of the Catholic Church across Victoria, and the ability to navigate and collaborate within this framework.
• You have the proven ability to motivate, mentor, and coach staff and volunteers, fostering a supportive and collaborative working environment.
• You pride yourself on your strong organisational skills & demonstrate the ability to plan, prioritise & manage projects, initiatives & activities.
• You have experience in handling confidential information with the utmost care and ensuring its safety and integrity.

Why work for us?

• Make a Difference: Step into a role where your work has a real impact, supporting and uplifting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics across Victoria.
• Create Your Own Pathways: Take the opportunity to shape your own journey, developing initiatives and programs that reflect your vision and passion for cultural and spiritual growth.
• Work in a Culturally Safe Space: Join a team that values and respects Aboriginal culture, working in an environment enriched with beautiful and sacred Aboriginal art expression, located in Thornbury with convenient onsite parking.

How to Apply:

If you are a First Nations person with a vision and a passion for educating the community about the spiritual gifts that we have to offer the people of Australia, we would love to hear from you.

To submit an application, please click “Apply” and submit your current resume along with a cover letter detailing your interest in the position and outlining why you consider yourself an ideal candidate for this role.

To learn more about ACMV, please visit our website – https://www.cam1.org.au/acmv

Please note, The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne is committed to the safety, wellbeing and dignity of all children and vulnerable adults. It is a requirement across our organisation that all clergy, employees, and volunteers have a valid Police and Working with Children