Lead a dynamic cultural program that connects community, Country and campus
Deliver programs and partnerships withinarchitect-designed gallery spacesthat play a central role in Newcastle's cultural landscape
Be based in Newcastle,a vibrant regional city with a strong creative community and outstanding lifestyle
The University of Newcastle is seeking a visionarySenior Art Curator and Manager, University Galleries(HEW 8/9)to drive curatorial excellence, strategic direction, community connection and operational leadership for its University Galleries and art collection.
This role offers a rare opportunity to lead the next phase of growth for an established and highly regarded galleries program, strengthening cultural impact, partnerships and reputation within the region and the national arts sector.
The role
AsHead of the University Galleries Unit,you will shape and deliver the strategic vision, curatorial direction and operational leadership of the University's galleries and art collections, aligned with the University's Arts and Culture Strategy *********.
This includes stewardship of theUniversity Art Collection, which includes one of the largest collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art held by any Australian university,requiring culturally informed leadership, ethical governance and sector credibility.
Reporting within the Vice-Chancellor's Division, you will lead a small specialist team and casual workforce, operate with a high degree of autonomy, and manage your own budget. The role is both strategic and outward-facing, requiring strong engagement across the University and with the broader arts and cultural community.
You will:
Lead and deliver a research-informed annual exhibition program across multiple gallery sites
Provide senior curatorial leadership for the University Art Collection — includingone of the largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collections of any university holding— encompassing acquisitions, commissions, deaccessions and touring exhibitions
Ensure best-practice standards in collection management, conservation, digitisation, governance and risk
Cultivate high-impact partnerships with galleries, artists and cultural institutions across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland, as well as nationally
Develop and maintain strong collaborations with key partners, including theNewcastle Writers Festival and New Annual
Embed First Nations leadership, protocols and cultural authority in partnership with the Wollotuka Institute and First Nations curators
Identify and secure external funding, sponsorships, bequests and philanthropy to support exhibitions, publications and research
Lead publications and scholarly outputs that enhance curatorial discourse and institutional reputation
Represent the University through qualified networks and sector leadership, including Art Museums Australia, and uphold obligations under theIndigenous Art Code
This continuing HEW8/9 position isfulltime and based between our Callaghan and City Campuses.
About you




You are a senior curator with a strong professional profile and deep expertise across diverse art practices, with a nuanced understanding of regional and national arts ecosystems.
You will bring:
Significant curatorial and leadership experience within galleries, museums or cultural institutions
Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement capability
Demonstrated experience delivering high-quality exhibition programs and publications
Sound knowledge of Indigenous cultural protocols, intellectual property and ethical stewardship
Strong governance, budget management and risk management experience
Well-established networks across the arts and cultural sectors
Strategic judgement, adaptability and the ability to operate autonomously
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 for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. We stand proudly on the lands of the Awabakal and Worimi people. Our commitment to deep, respectful collaboration with First Nations communities shapes everything we do. As an anchor institution for the Hunter and Central Coast regions, we champion creativity, equity and cultural connection across our campuses and communities.
For more information click here – Our Uni .
What we offer
In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively.
These include:
Attractive remuneration package and excellent employment conditions in line with University of Newcastle professional staff conditions.
Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University's Flexible Work Policy
35 hour week
17% super and salary packaging
Additional University Holiday days, generous personal leave and parental leave, annual leave loading and additional purchased leave scheme
Discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
Wellbeing programs
Your next steps
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.
Your applicationmustinclude:
Your resume
A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity




A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed in the job description demonstrating your qualifications and experience with examples.
To ensure that your application receives full consideration, it's important to structure and address the selection criteria outlined in the application process. This helps us better understand your experience and suitability for the role. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to reviewing your application.
Please upload your Cover Letterandresponse to the requested Criteria asonePDF document.
Your Cover Letter and Response to the Essential Criteria should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words).
Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
For specific position enquiries, please contact Kerryn Stewart, Chief of Staff to the Vice-Chancellor ************** or via email ******
Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: ******
Closing date: Tuesday 15th September *******:59pm AEST
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 asafe, respectful, and inclusive environmentfor 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 theNational Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence **** , from 1 January ****, 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.
We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

We are committed to a fair, inclusive, and barrier-free recruitment process. If you require an alternative way to access the Position Description or submit your application, please contact******.
Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the assessment and interview process to support all applicants to participate fully.
The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and strongly encourage women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates to apply.
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📌 Senior Art Curator And Manager, University Galleries (New South Wales)
🏢 University Of Newcastle Employees, Location, Alumni
📍 New South Wales