Independent Member Trustee Advisory Council - Thalanyji Trusts

About the role

The Thalanyji Trusts are seeking an experienced and highly capable Trustee Advisory Council Independent Member to support the Trustee in fulfilling its responsibilities and ensuring the ongoing success, sustainability, and effective governance of the Trusts for the benefit of the Thalanyji People. This is an important governance position that will contribute independent expertise, strategic insight, and informed advice to the Trustee Advisory Council.

Key responsibilities

• Provide independent advice and guidance on governance, strategic planning, financial oversight, compliance obligations, and business opportunities

• Support effective decision-making of the Trustee Advisory Council

• Contribute to the long-term objectives and aspirations of the Trust and the Thalanyji People

About you

• We are seeking candidates with a demonstrated track record in professional, financial, business management, governance, trust administration, or related fields.

• The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of governance responsibilities and be able to contribute strategic insight, financial oversight, and practical expertise to the Trustee.

• Experience working with communities and respect of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander culture is highly regarded.

• AICD or Governance Institute membership/fellowship is highly regarded.

We encourage candidates from Perth and Western Australia to apply.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

To be considered for appointment, applicants should address the following selection criteria:

1. are at least 18 years of age;

2. are Independent;

3. are able to provide satisfactory National Police Clearance;

4. are able to provide Director ID (where applicable);

5. satisfy the following:

   1. Board Experience: demonstrates at least 3 years' recent experience as an experience as a director of an Australian company or in a professional, financial, or business management role;

   2. Board Education: has, or within the first year of the Independent Director's term will have, completed an approved director's governance course (e.g. ORIC, ACNC or AICD training course);

   3. Financial Literacy: Demonstrated financial literacy, evidenced by experience reviewing and interpreting financial statements, budgets, audit reports, investment reports, or other financial information;

   4. Leadership Experience: possesses leadership experience, and shall possess qualities reflecting a proven record of accomplishment and ability to work with others;

   5. Absence of Conflicting Commitments: does not have commitments that would conflict with the commitments of a Director of the Company;

   6. Reputation and Integrity:
      - is of high repute and recognised integrity,
      - has not been convicted in a criminal proceeding or named a subject of a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses),
      - has not been found in a civil proceeding to have violated any federal or state securities or commodities law; and
      - is not subject to any Court or regulatory order or decree limiting his or her business activity, including in connection with the purchase or sale of any security or commodity;

   7. Experience with Aboriginal Communities: demonstrated recent experience working with Aboriginal Communities; 

   8. Experience with Charitable and/or Other Trusts: demonstrated recent experience working with Charitable and/or other Trust, with sound knowledge of Trust structures;

   9. Experience with Business development: aligned with strategic, annual, and compliance frameworks; and

   10. Cultural Awareness: recent experience with, or sound knowledge of, culturally appropriate engagement with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

Remuneration and Time Commitment

This is a remunerated position, details regarding fees and reimbursement arrangements will be provided to shortlisted candidates.

Attendance at Trustee meetings and occasional travel within Western Australia may be required.

How to Apply

Please submit:

• A current Curriculum Vitae (CV); and

• A cover letter of no more than one page outlining your suitability for the role and addressing the selection criteria.

Applications from candidates with a commitment to strong governance, cultural respect, and supporting positive outcomes for the Thalanyji People are welcomed.

Submission Deadline: Applications close 18 September 2026.                                                    

For information, or to submit your application: Kelly Debney, Native Title Trust Manager – Perpetual

E: ***************@Perpetual.Com.Au or Ph: 08 9224 4***