The Data Strategy and Governance Section provides agency‑wide leadership to ensure data is trusted, accessible and used effectively to support public health decision‑making. This is an opportunity to play a key leadership role in shaping how the Australian CDC works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations to strengthen the governance, stewardship and use of public health data.

As Assistant

Director, Governance of Indigenous Data, you will lead the Australian CDC's work to embed Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles into the governance, access, use, interpretation and stewardship of public health data, while supporting delivery of priority reforms under the Australian CDC Data Strategy.

You will have the opportunity to influence how public health data is governed across the Australian CDC, helping to build trust, strengthen accountability and ensure data is used in ways that support better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. Working across the organisation and with external partners, you will help translate strategic commitments into practical reforms that strengthen governance, capability and decision-making across Australia's public health system.

We're seeking a collaborative and influential professional who a robust understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and perspectives, and a proven ability to engage respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and organisations.

Key responisbilities include

- lead the development and implementation of the Australian CDC's Governance of Indigenous Data work program, helping to embed Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles across the organisation's data policies, governance arrangements and ways of working




- work closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, communities, peak bodies and experts to build trusted partnerships and ensure First Nations perspectives inform the development and governance of public health data
- support implementation of Priority Reforms for the National Agreement on Closing the Gap under the Australian CDC Data Strategy
- provide authoritative advice to senior leaders on governance of Indigenous data, governance reform, stewardship, ethics and emerging opportunities and risks affecting public health data
- build capability across the Australian CDC by supporting business areas to incorporate Indigenous Data Sovereignty considerations into policy development, surveillance, research, data use and decision-making
- work collaboratively with Commonwealth agencies, jurisdictions, researchers and other partners to advance nationally consistent approaches to public health data governance and stewardship.

Through this role, you will help shape a public health data system that is trusted, transparent and responsive to the needs and priorities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. You will play a central role in ensuring the Australian CDC's approach to public health data is informed by strong partnerships, shared decision-making and a commitment to responsible and respectful data practices.

Relevant qualifications and experience,



including demonstrated ability to engage respectfully and effectively with priority populations, including people with disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Interested candidates should note the following:

- this is an Identified position open to all Australian citizens, which means the successful applicant will be required to demonstrate:
- a strong understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, and perspectives
- the ability to work effectively and respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

- candidates from priority population groups, or candidates with experience working with priority populations, who meet the requirements above will also be highly regarded.

Applicants may wish to refer to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Capability: A Framework for Commonwealth Agencies when considering the cultural capabilities relevant to working in the Partnerships and Equity Section.

Qualifications in public health, health sciences, data governance, information management, data analytics, or a related field are also highly desirable. Equivalent experience will also be considered, where extensive relevant work experience demonstrates the skills, knowledge and capabilities required for the role.

It is a requirement for anyone who is employed by the CDC to be an Australian citizen.

The successful candidate will be assessed through our pre-employment screening checks, such as an Australian Criminal History Check.

The successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a Baseline security clearance.

Apply by 11:30 pm AEDT on 3 November 2026.

Applicants are asked to quote reference number ​​26CDC-DEAB-10183​ to assist when making an enquiry.

📌 Assistant Director, Governance of Indigenous Data (Australian Capital Territory)
🏢 Australian Centre for Disease Control
📍 Australian Capital Territory