Classification: CEO-level (Governor in Council appointment) Contract Term: Up to 3 years Salary: In line with the Queensland public sector chief executive remuneration framework and subject to Governor in Council approval Closing Date: 20th July 2025 Contact: Dani Fitzgerald, Senior Recruitment Consultant – 0405 430 072 Lead a once-in-a-generation opportunity to uphold and protect Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing practices. The Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism invites applications for the culturally significant and legislatively established role of Commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa). This unique executive appointment plays a pivotal role in recognising and preserving Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing practices through the implementation of the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Act 2020. About the Role As Commissioner, you will independently assess and determine applications for cultural recognition orders, giving legal effect to traditional child rearing practices. You will lead a small team, provide strategic advice to the Minister, and raise public awareness of the office and its functions. The Commissioner also oversees the proper and effective operation of the office and is required to prepare an annual report to be tabled in Parliament. This role is based in Cairns, with travel to Thursday Island and other Queensland locations as required. It is legislatively designated for a Torres Strait Islander person, and preference will be given to candidates with legal qualifications or experience due to the complexity of decision making involved. Key Responsibilities Determine cultural recognition order applications in accordance with legislation. Provide advice to the Minister and promote public awareness of the office. Lead and manage a dedicated team to ensure operational excellence. Collaborate with community stakeholders, including cultural leaders, families, and government entities. Represent the office in a culturally safe, ethical, and legally robust manner. About You We’re seeking an exceptional Torres Strait Islander leader with: Deep understanding of Torres Strait Islander child rearing practices. Experience in high-level decision making, preferably within an administrative law framework. Strong leadership skills, including team supervision and strategic communication. Ability to engage sensitively and effectively with diverse stakeholders. Legal qualifications and/or experience (highly regarded). This is more than an executive role – it’s a culturally significant leadership opportunity to protect and elevate traditional Torres Strait Islander customs within a contemporary legal framework. You’ll work alongside passionate and committed professionals in a department that values cultural knowledge, leadership, and lived experience. Alternate Decision-Maker Opportunity In addition to recruiting for the Commissioner role, this process will also shortlist candidates for the position of Alternate Decision-Maker, as outlined in the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Act 2020 . This is a casual, on-call role that may be activated to temporarily perform the functions of the Commissioner during periods of leave or unavailability. Successfully shortlisted candidates for the Commissioner role may also be considered for this appointment. How to Apply Please submit: A current CV A 2-page summary outlining your relevant experience, skills, and achievements relevant to the role Applications must be lodged via Smart Jobs : Job search | Employment and jobs | Queensland Government Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a range of documentation, including: A declaration of interests (in accordance with the Integrity Act 2009 ) A criminal history check and social media screening Statutory appointment forms (for any current or previous Queensland Government roles) Screening relevant to child safety and bankruptcy These documents will be provided and collected at the appropriate stage of the recruitment process to support transparency, suitability, and compliance with Queensland Government statutory requirements. For more information, contact Dani Fitzgerald , Senior Recruitment Consultant on 0405 430 072 or via email [email protected]
