NIAA Section 26 (S26) Transfer Register – April 2026 – September 2026

The Section 26 (S26) Transfer Register

The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) invites ongoing (permanent) APS employees to express interest in employment opportunities via our Section 26 (S26) Transfer Register. This register is open to APS employees interested in temporary or permanent roles within the Agency.

The S26 Transfer Register enables the NIAA to access a diverse pool of APS talent to fill both ongoing and non-ongoing vacancies aligned with our strategic priorities. It offers candidates the chance to contribute to meaningful work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment focused on complex policy and program challenges.

By registering, candidates may be considered for:

• Temporary or permanent transfers at their current classification
• Temporary or permanent transfers at a lower classification
• Temporary transfers at their current classification with a Higher Duties arrangement.

Who We Are

The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) leads and coordinates the Australian Government’s efforts to support the self-determination and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We work in genuine partnership with communities to ensure the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are met through government policies, programs, and services.

With over 1500 staff across remote, regional, and urban locations, we influence policy and deliver programs that improve outcomes in areas such as employment, housing, education, health, justice, and food security. Our work is guided by our vision: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are heard, recognised and empowered.

We have a strong national footprint, operating in 37 locations and 14 communities across Australia. This enables us to respond effectively and meaningfully based on place and need, ensuring our work is grounded in local context and community priorities.

What We Do

Our work is shaped by the priorities outlined in the NIAA Corporate Plan 2025–29, including:

• Closing the Gap: Leading and coordinating national efforts under the National Agreement.
• Empowering Communities: Supporting local decision-making and partnerships.
• Targeted Investment: Delivering programs through the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
• Economic Development: Supporting Indigenous businesses and employment initiatives.
• Food Security: Implementing the National Strategy for Food Security in remote communities.
• Housing: Investing in remote housing and infrastructure to reduce overcrowding.
• Stewardship and Employment: Expanding the Indigenous Rangers Program.

We offer temporary roles across a wide range of functions, including:

• Accounting & Finance
• Administration
• Communications & Marketing
• Community Engagement
• Compliance & Regulation
• Executive Support
• Grant Management
• Human Resources
• Information & Communication Technology
• Information & Knowledge Management
• Legal & Parliamentary
• Monitoring & Audit
• Procurement
• Project & Program Management
• Policy Development
• Research
• Service Delivery. 

Our Ideal Candidates

We’re seeking individuals who are passionate about contributing to meaningful outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and bring a diverse range of skills, capabilities and attributes, including:

• Cultural capability, including an understanding of issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and a commitment to reconciliation
• Community engagement skills, with the ability to build respectful relationships and work in genuine partnership with stakeholders
• Policy and program awareness, particularly in areas impacting First Nations communities such as health, education, housing, employment, justice, and economic development
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement
• Adaptability and resilience, especially in dynamic and complex environments
• Initiative and accountability, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes
• Collaboration and teamwork, with respect for diversity and a commitment to inclusive practices
• Digital and data literacy, including the ability to use technology and data to inform and improve service delivery
• Integrity and professionalism, aligned with the values of the Australian Public Service and NIAA’s commitment to ethical conduct.

Our shared Values and Behaviours guide how we work and engage with partners and stakeholders. Learn more about them here.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.

What We Offer

• Access to flexible working arrangements to meet your personal and family circumstances.
• Generous remuneration packages, including 15.4% superannuation contributions.
• A supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
• Access to several staff-led diversity networks (including our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network, Disability Network and Pride Network).
• Opportunities to contribute to meaningful work on behalf of the Australian Government.

More information about our employment conditions is available in the NIAA Enterprise Agreement. Discover more about our agency and culture here.

To be eligible for employment with the NIAA, you must be an Australian Citizen.

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

A Baseline Vetting or Negative Vetting Level 1 security clearance is required, depending on the role.

The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) has a range of flexible working arrangements available to its employees under the Enterprise Agreement and relevant policies and guidance materials. Working arrangements can be negotiated with successful candidates on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the operational requirements of the role and the individual's personal circumstances and preferences.

• Positions may be full-time or part-time depending on business needs.
• You will only be contacted if an opportunity arises that matches your skills, experience, and preferences.
• For temporary section 26 transfers, approval is required from the losing agency.

All positions at the NIAA are 'Identified' whereby roles are involved in issues relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The levels of contact with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, communities and service providers will vary from position to position but still require you to have the capacity and willingness to further develop your skills. At a minimum you will require capacity to demonstrate cultural competency, including:

• Understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples
• Willingness and commitment to continue to develop cultural competency.

**Please note that this opportunity is only available to ongoing Australian Public Service employees**