About us

Buurabalayji Thalanyji Aboriginal Corporation (BTAC) is the Registered Native Title Body Corporate (RNTBC) for the Thalanyji People through Native Title Determination WCD2008/003 and also agent for the Thalanyji/Nhuwala Native Title claimants (WC2024/007).

About the Job

BTAC is seeking a Language Program Coordinator / Linguist to further develop the Thalanyji Language Program.

Key Responsibilities

· Language Resource Development: Create and deliver language resources, including dictionary, grammar guide, teaching materials, in collaboration with Thalanyji speakers and Elders.

· Coordination: Coordinate the language program and cultural projects.

· Language Documentation and Description: Undertake fieldwork to record oral histories, narratives, and conversations in Thalanyji, using linguistic software such as dictionary databases and ELAN for analysis.

· Community Engagement: Work with Thalanyji community members to ensure culturally sensitive and accurate documentation, supporting community leadership and ownership of language revitalization efforts.

· Training and Support: Train staff and community members in language work, including recording, analysis and use of linguistic software to ensure program sustainability.

· Data management and archiving: Use best practice standards for language documentation and maintain archival standards for management of all language program records.

· Documentation and Reporting: Produce reports on program progress and write and submit grant applications or funding proposals.

· Collaboration: Partner with external linguists, academic institutions, and cultural organisations to enhance the program’s reach and impact.

· Travel: Undertake regular travel to Onslow and surrounding areas for fieldwork, community workshops, and consultations.

Skills and Competencies

· Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency in ELAN for audio/video annotation, transcription,



and linguistic analysis; competence in Microsoft Office and database management.

· Cultural Sensitivity: Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully with Thalanyji Elders and community members, adhering to cultural protocols and protecting Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property.

· Analytical Skills: Strong ability to analyse linguistic data and develop accessible resources for a wider audience.

· Organisational Skills: Effective time management to balance fieldwork, office-based tasks, and reporting within a part-time schedule.

· Communication: Clear written and verbal communication for producing resources, reports, and facilitating workshops.

Working Conditions

· Hours: 26 hours per week, with flexible scheduling to accommodate travel and community needs.

· Location: Primarily based in South Perth, with frequent travel to Onslow and surrounding areas for fieldwork and community engagement.

· Setting: Mix of office-based work (South Perth) and fieldwork in remote locations, requiring adaptability to varying conditions (e.g., outdoor settings, community venues).

· Travel Requirements: Regular travel to Onslow, including overnight stays, with travel expenses covered by BTAC per organisational policy.

Key Relationships

· Internal: Thalanyji Elders, and community members, Language Officer, and BTAC staff,.

· External: Academic institutions, language organisations, funding bodies.

Salary & Benefits

- Competitive annual salary and access to salary packaging providing tax benefits up to $18,550 per year.
- 4 Weeks Annual Leave with Leave Loading of 17.5%.

For further enquiries regarding the role, please contact Richa Vinod, Head of Human Resources & Member Services, at [email protected] or [08 9321 3166](tel:08 9321 3166). To apply, simply submit a Cover Letter and your Resume.

Applications close Sunday, 22nd November 2026. All applications will be treated strictly confidential. Only applicants who have progressed to shortlisting will be contacted.

Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.

📌 Language Program Coordinator/ Linguist (Perth)
🏢 Buurabalayji Thalanyji Aboriginal
📍 Perth