We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Elders, Ancestors and leaders of the Kulin Nations on whose unceded lands ILBIJERRI Theatre Company is based.
We extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, recognising their resilience and ongoing connection to land, water and culture, despite ongoing colonial interruption and genocide.
Always was, always will be, sacred Indigenous land.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be advised that this website may contain images of deceased persons.
OFFICE POSITION: ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Lead with vision. Create with purpose. Centre First Peoples voices.
For the first time in 18 years, ILBIJERRI Theatre Company is seeking a bold, visionary Artistic Director to lead one of Australia’s most respected and enduring First Peoples-led arts organisations into its next chapter, following Rachael Maza’s significant tenure.
This is a rare opportunity to shape a multi-year artistic vision that is sovereign,
nationally significant, and globally distinctive. You will lead the creation of impactful, artistically ambitious work that speaks powerfully to First Peoples’ stories, and resonates with audiences in communities, theatres, and countries far and wide.
Reporting to the Board - and working closely with the Executive Director and a
passionate team - you will guide ILBIJERRI’s creative direction, develop new and
existing partnerships, and champion excellence, inclusion and integrity throughout all facets of the company’s work. From visioning the annual program to supporting artist development and education initiatives, your cultural and creative leadership will amplify the voice of First Peoples across the arts landscape.
The Board are seeking a cultural leader, strong communicator, and creative enabler someone who leads with cultural knowledge and capability, generosity, and strategic clarity. You will bring deep industry knowledge, First Peoples community connections, and the energy to nurture and inspire the next generation of theatre
makers.
Join us in making theatre that is bold, Black, and brilliant.
ILBIJERRI is committed to improving employment opportunities and outcomes for
First Peoples. We respect, celebrate, and embrace the cultural diversity of Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, our stories, our culture, and our experiences.
This position is open only to individuals who identify as Aboriginal and/or
Torres Strait Islander.
This process and search is led by REA arts + culture, specialists in executive search
for creative industry leaders across Australia. After applications are received, the
ILBIJERRI Recruitment Panel will determine who is shortlisted for interview.
Interviews will be held in August.
CANDIDATE PACK
Interested applicants are invited to contact REA to obtain a copy of the key selection
criteria and detailed Candidate Pack, and a confidential discussion about the role
and their potential candidacy.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications are due before close of business on Friday 8 August.
LODGING YOUR APPLICATION
Before lodging an application, you are encouraged to contact Vanessa Duscio and
Richard Evans before 5 August 2025. All enquiries are treated confidentially.
Vanessa Duscio +61 409 977 312
[email protected]
LOCATION
The full-time position is based in Melbourne/Narrm, at Collingwood Yards, a vibrant,
mixed use precinct for the arts.
Contract Entitlements and Salary
o Term: three-year full-time contract which may be extended by mutual
agreement.
o A competitive salary package $120,000 plus super.
o One-off relocation expense package to be negotiated as required.
Other Relevant Information
As a performing arts company, this creative leadership position will involve travel and
irregular hours, including evenings and weekends and flexibility will be required.
