Introduction

The Social Research Centre aims to be Australia’s trusted evidence partner for social research. We recognise, however, that the legacy and ongoing impacts of colonisation continue to shape who conducts research, whose voices are heard, and how studies are designed, implemented and interpreted. We acknowledge that existing structures within our industry may not yet be adequate for undertaking research that is culturally safe, community-led, and empowering for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Expression of Interest

We are inviting expressions of interest from experienced First Nations researchers and evaluators to join a newly established First Nations Research Advisory Council. The Council will provide strategic advice and cultural expertise on the development of a First Nations-led social research practice.

Aims & Outcomes

We are committed to driving meaningful change in our industry through the establishment of a First Nations social research practice that elevates and amplifies the perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our aim is to ensure First Nations views and experiences are accurately and appropriately represented to inform more inclusive public policy and decision-making.

With guidance from the Council, we are seeking to transform our research methodologies by embedding First Nations perspectives, leadership, and ways of knowing across our work. This includes strengthening our capability to undertake culturally safe research in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants, researchers, organisations, and communities.

The Council is a key commitment under the Social Research Centre's Reconciliation Action Plan, developed with the guidance of Reconciliation Australia. The Council will support our ongoing journey to foster a business culture where partnerships are respectful, inclusive, and empowering, and where our research is responsive to the needs of First Nations peoples.

Eligibility

We are seeking applicants who:

- Identify as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.





- Are experienced in strengthening research practises involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

- Are available to attend six Council meetings per year (four online and two in-person), and complete reading of Council papers and other administrative duties, as required.

Council members will be appointed for an initial one-year term.

Selection Criteria

We are seeking applicants who can demonstrate the following:

1. Commitment to Self-Determined and Ethical First Nations Research
- Ability to provide advice on research design, methodology, interpretation, and communication of findings.
- Knowledge of qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods, community-led, and/or participatory research approaches.
- Demonstrated commitment to strengthening First Nations participation, decision-making and leadership in research.
- Understanding of decolonising methodologies, Indigenous data governance, cultural safety, and ethics frameworks in research.

- Cultural Expertise

- Experience in community leadership roles and/or working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and community-controlled organisations.
- Ability to bring community perspectives, cultural considerations and lived experiences into strategic advice.
- Understanding of the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and communities.

- Collaboration & Relationship Building

- Ability to work constructively with people from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
- Experience building relationships across communities, organisations, and/or sectors.
- Commitment to culturally safe, respectful, and constructive engagement.

- Strategic Advice & Governance

- Experience participating in advisory groups, boards, committees,



or governance forums (desirable).
- Experience influencing policy, governance, organisational practise and/or program design (desirable).
- Willingness to contribute actively to meetings and review materials in a timely manner.

Council Composition

We are seeking balanced membership that collectively reflects the following:

- Diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and communities

- Academic, community, not for profit, and commercial research experience

- Gender diversity

- Urban, regional, rural, and remote perspectives

- Skilled and lived experience

Remuneration

Remuneration will include sitting fees, inclusive of compensation for meeting preparation time. The Social Research Centre will arrange and cover all reasonable costs associated with in-person meetings, including travel, accommodation, and daily allowances (per diems).

Advice on urgent or time-sensitive matters may be sought outside of scheduled meetings. Council members will be remunerated separately by agreement for this work.

Accessibility & Participation Support

Accessibility and participation support will be made available to Council members. These include, but are not limited to, providing reasonable adjustments for meeting participation, supplying papers and other documentation in accessible formats, as well as support for members with disability, caring/kinship responsibilities and/or technology barriers.

Submission

Please submit your CV and a short expression of interest (500 words maximum) addressing the selection criteria.

We are recruiting for a Chair role and three ordinary members. Please identify which role you are interested in as part of your expression of interest statement.

Expressions of Interest close at midnight on Sunday 11 October 2026.

Please note, shortlisting may begin before the application closing date.

Support

Should you have any questions or require support with the application process, please reach out to Keeaira Aird, Director, First Nations Lead by email at [email protected]

📌 First Nations Research Advisory Council (Melbourne)
🏢 The Social Research Centre
📍 Melbourne