At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Indigenous-led research and engage with the Yorta Yorta community.
- Company: La Trobe University, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work hours, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Part-time role with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while gaining valuable research experience.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of the Yorta Yorta community and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 75800 - 92600 $ per year.
Job no: 570919
Work type: Fixed Term
Location: Shepparton
Categories: Level A - Research Only Part-Time .40FTE (2 days per week), Fixed Term 3 years
Classification: Level A - Base salary from $84,205 + 17% superannuation
Only Indigenous Australians are eligible to apply as this position is exempt under the Special Measure Provision, Section 12(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2011 (Vic).
About the position
This is an exciting project and is Indigenous led with many of the researchers being Yorta Yorta descent. The team includes up to 15 families/clans from the Goulburn Valley region. The research will record and explore the individual family history of each family/clan’s involvement in the fruit picking industry.
In addition to supporting research activities, the Research Assistant will contribute to community engagement, project coordination and storytelling activities across the Malnuda Burra Yina project. This includes supporting podcast production, assisting Family Facilitators and researchers, coordinating engagement activities, and providing flexible project support as priorities emerge throughout the life of the project.
The Research Assistant will be situated in the Gabra Biik Wurruwila Wutja Research Centre (Shepparton Campus). The Research Assistant will be directed by the Malnuda Barra Yina Research Steering Committee and reports to the Director of the Gabra Biik, Wurruwila Wutja Indigenous Research Centre. The Research Assistant will be supported in their role with skilling up or training where required and throughout the project.
Our ideal candidate needs to demonstrate they can work in a team environment and work independently and collaboratively as part of the team. The candidate needs to be organised to prioritise and meet project deadlines.
Skills and Experience
To be considered for this position, you will have:
- Knowledge of the community, expertise in working with community and acceptance of the Yorta Yorta community to work with families
- Acknowledge and support compliance with university policies, research ethics requirements, and funding body obligations.
- Ability to build credible relationships with Aboriginal individuals and communities, showing respect for cultural values and protocols working successfully with Yorta Yorta Community members in formal settings, such as Yorta Yorta organisation, a higher education organisation, a gallery, museum, or archive.
Please refer to the position description for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.
Closing date Wednesday the 21st of October 2026
An up to date resume; 1 page cover letter addressing your interest and suitability.
Please note, this is an identified Indigenous position and in accordance with La Trobe University policies and procedures confirmation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage will be required as part of the application. Only candidates with Full Working Rights and residing in Australia may apply for this position.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants
We welcome and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion
La Trobe University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We take an intersectional approach by actively supporting and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to submit an application and aim to ensure that the recruitment and employee experience is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Flexibility in interview format will be offered to shortlisted candidates.
Our commitment to safety
All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.
National Code on Gender Based Violence in Higher Education
La Trobe University is committed to upholding the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV Code). This aligns with our mission to create safe and respectful communities. Candidates will be asked during the recruitment process to declare whether they have ever been investigated for, or found to have engaged in, gender-based violence in previous employment and/or in legal proceedings and provide relevant information to assist in determining suitability. Gender-based violence means any form of physical or non-physical violence, harassment, abuse or threats based on gender, that results in, or is likely to result in harm, coercion, control, fear or deprivation liberty or autonomy.
Advertised: 23 Sep 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 21 Oct 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Malnuda Barra Yina Research Assistant employer: La Trobe
La Trobe University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and shared accountability. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees are encouraged to thrive in their roles while contributing to meaningful research that impacts communities. The university also provides ample opportunities for professional growth through its sector-leading Leadership Academy, ensuring that all staff can develop their skills and excel in their careers.
