Chief Executive Officer: Community First Development

The organisation

Community First Development is a national, First Nations-led organisation that works by invitation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Grounded in self-determination, it supports communities to identify their own priorities and connects them with skilled volunteers, partners and expertise to turn those priorities into practical, lasting outcomes.

Community First Development is entering an important next phase: strengthening its contribution to economic development, enterprise and sustainable local economies while preserving its trusted, community-led approach.

The role

The Chief Executive Officer will lead Community First Development through this next phase of strategy, impact and growth. Working closely with the incoming Chair and Board, the CEO will clarify the organisation’s role within the broader First Nations ecosystem,



deepen relationships with communities and government, and build a more sustainable, diversified funding base across philanthropy, government, business and other partners.

This influential role calls for a grounded, pragmatic and commercially astute executive who understands Aboriginal Australia and the wider policy and economic development landscape. Team-oriented, independent-minded and low ego, they will turn long-term ambition into substantial outcomes and work credibly with mob, government, funders, business and the Board.

Candidates based in Canberra, ACT are preferred; however, candidates from other locations may be considered.

This is an identified position. Applicants must be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Applications close at 5pm on Sunday 6th September, 2026.

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📌 Chief Executive Officer: Community First Development (Canberra)
🏢 People for Purpose
📍 Canberra