- Opportunity for an inspiring and strategic leader to shape the cultural future of Bass Coast
- Full-time permanent | Wonthaggi and Cowes
- $128,963 per annum plus superannuation

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Lead the vision and direction of arts, culture and heritage across Bass Coast. As Head of Arts, Culture and Heritage, you will provide strategic leadership across cultural programming, venues, audience development and community engagement, while maximising the impact of Council's cultural assets, including Berninneit and The Union.

In this role you will:

- Lead Council's arts, culture and heritage strategy and long-term service direction.
- Build influential partnerships with Traditional Owners, government agencies, funders, community organisations and industry stakeholders.
- Drive audience growth, secure external investment and deliver strong cultural, community and economic outcomes.
- Lead business development initiatives, secure external funding opportunities and maximise the community benefit of Council's cultural facilities and programs.

A BIT ABOUT YOU:

You're an experienced and values-driven leader with a passion for arts, culture and heritage and a proven ability to deliver results in complex environments.

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:

- Significant senior leadership experience within arts venues or a similar community-focused sector.
- Solid strategic thinking and confidence providing advice to senior stakeholders
- Strong financial and commercial acumen, including consolidated budget management, revenue diversification, grants, sponsorship and external investment, underpinned by sound risk management.

HOW TO APPLY:

For more details on this position, you can download the Position Description by clicking ‘Apply’ or contact Dani Slaughter,



Acting Manager Community Wellbeing and Culture on 0457 403 770.

To apply, please attach a resume and short cover letter outlining your interest and suitability to this role.

Applications close: Midnight, Sunday 29 November 2026.

WHY BASS COAST SHIRE COUNCIL:

From surfing and cycling to fine dining and everything in between, Bass Coast offers the perfect blend of rural, residential, and holiday living - set against breathtaking backdrops of beaches, bushland, and rolling hills. Less than two hours from Melbourne by car, Bass Coast Shire is one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regions, providing an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking a sea change or looking for a flexible work environment, Bass Coast Shire Council could offer the perfect employment opportunity to help you achieve your ideal work-life balance.

Bass Coast Shire Council is recognised as a leader in local government, having designed and implemented cutting-edge workplace policies that rank among the most progressive in the state. We’ve spearheaded discussions around gender equality and continue to champion initiatives that foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Additionally, we have committed to doing our part in the global fight against climate change, collaborating with both the community and our employees to drive meaningful action.





Bass Coast Shire Council consistently exceeds service excellence goals and is now integrating new technologies and systems to enhance our already high standards of service delivery. We are a Council that thrives on innovation, making this an exciting time to join us and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our workforce

Reasons why we love working at Bass Coast Shire Council:

- At Bass Coast Council, we celebrate diversity and have made it a top priority for all staff to feel safe and welcome regardless of race, religion, gender, disability, age or sexual orientation. We value inclusivity and a positive workplace culture.
- Flexible working arrangements; including flexible start and finish times and a generous hybrid working model. We encourage our employees to think about their work-life balance and what will help them flourish.
- We encourage open discussions with People Leaders and the People & Culture team to talk about any individual modifications or adjustments that may be required, enabling your on-going success in the role. Reach out to [email protected] for confidential support to ensure an equitable, barrier-free application process.
- Regular and proactive discussions on performance development, focusing on shared expectations, training opportunities, and career advancement. What can we do to help you achieve?
- Opportunities to experience other roles in the business with our ‘Expression of Interest’ process
- Options to purchase additional annual leave in advance of any extended trips or planned time off.

Child Safety Commitment

We support and respect all children, as well as our staff, contractors, and volunteers. Our organisation is committed to preventing child abuse by identifying risks early and intervening to address these risks. We are committed to the safety of all children.

📌 Head of Arts, Culture & Heritage (Wonthaggi)
🏢 Bass Coast Shire Council
📍 Wonthaggi