Indigenous Engagement Librarian (Identified)

About our University 

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University, creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability. 

About the role

The University Library plays a pivotal role in supporting learning, teaching, and research. We’re seeking a passionate Indigenous Engagement Librarian (Identified) to join our Indigenous Services Team within the Library. This role is central to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive environment, supporting Indigenous students and staff, and embedding Indigenous perspectives into library services and collections. 

You’ll work collaboratively across the University to enhance engagement with Indigenous students, staff, and communities, and contribute to the University’s commitment to Indigenous education and research. 

What you will do:

• Build strong relationships with Indigenous students, staff, and communities. 
• Deliver culturally appropriate library services, instructional materials, and training programs. 
• Support the integration of Indigenous resources into academic programs. 
• Contribute to the decolonisation and Indigenisation of library collections. 
• Provide advice on Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP), metadata, and data sovereignty. 
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to promote inclusive library services and deliver capacity-building initiatives and cultural competency training for library staff. 
• Participate in strategic projects and contribute to planning and reporting. 
• Champion inclusive practices and Indigenous cultural awareness across library services. 

How will you inspire us? 

You will have: 

• Aboriginality as a genuine occupational qualification under Section 14 of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. 
• A degree with relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and training. 
• Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 
• Expertise in collection development and culturally appropriate resource use. 
• Strong project coordination and stakeholder engagement skills. 
• Advanced digital literacy and ability to lead technology adoption in library services. 
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and respectful workplace culture. 

This is an identified position and applicants must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. Being an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person is a genuine occupational qualification as authorised under Section 14(D) of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act, 1977 NSW. 

Why join us? 

• Work in a vibrant, student-focused environment. 
• Lead meaningful initiatives that enhance the student experience. 
• Be part of a team that values innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration. 
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and professional development opportunities. 
• Leave entitlements, including up to 10 days paid leave in addition to personal leave provisions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. 
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff Network offering social events, development programs and peer support  

The remuneration for this position is from $93,929 FTE +17% superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience. 

For information on our employee benefits (such as flexible working, discounts in private health insurance and gym memberships and salary packaging) please visit here. 

Your next steps 

Click the Apply button to be redirected to the advert on our University of Newcastle jobs page where you will find a guide on how to apply and gain access to the job description 

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role.  

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application. 

Please submit a current resume and a 2-page maximum response to the following questions: 

1. Please share your connection to community and how your cultural identity informs your approach to working in a university or library setting. 
2. Provide an example of a project or initiative you’ve led or contributed to that involved culturally appropriate resource use or service design. What was the outcome and how did it support Indigenous engagement? 
3. Describe a time when you used digital tools or technologies to improve library services or student experiences. How did you ensure the approach was inclusive and aligned with principles of equity, diversity, and cultural respect? 

For the full list of the selection criteria and role responsibilities, please download the Position Description (available in the Related Documents section below). 

For specific position enquiries, please contact Hannah Pipe, Manager Indigenous Services, on (02) 4921 7952 or via email hannah.pipe@newcastle.edu.au.   

For questions regarding Aboriginality as a genuine occupational qualification, or providing Confirmation of Aboriginality, please reach out to Simone Jordan, Indigenous Employment Partner on (02) 4055 0897 or via email at simone.jordan@newcastle.edu.au.

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au 

Closing date: Sunday 26th July 2026

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you  

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present. 

 #LI-KG1

Our assessment process

Typically, candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role 

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive. 

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes. 

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University. 

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.