real cultural mentor

About ALPA & The REAL Program

The Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) is a proud First Nations organisation committed to empowering First Nations people, improving health, quality of life, and driving economic development.

Our Reconnection, Employment and Learning (REAL) Program provides on-the-ground, culturally safe, trauma-informed support to Aboriginal people who are in custody or transitioning from incarceration back into community. We work to ensure participants return home safely, with dignity, and with practical, long-term supports in place.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a grounded, reliable, and strong Cultural Mentor to stand alongside our participants on their journey of healing and reintegration.

In this role, paper qualifications take a backseat to who you are as a person. We value life experience, solid standing in the community, and the ability to lead by example. You will be a steady presence—acting as a role model, a cultural bridge, and a trusted guide for participants navigating real-world and cultural challenges.

Working closely alongside our Case Managers and the broader team, you will help build a strong, resilient foundation for those reconnecting with their community and culture.

• Guide & Mentor: Walk alongside participants to support their reintegration journey post-release, building confidence, resilience, and connection to identity.

• Cultural Grounding: Help participants re-establish strong connections with Country, kin, language, Elders, and local community groups.

• Lead by Example: Serve as a positive role model in your work ethic, professionalism, personal strength, and commitment to wellbeing and safety.

• Team & Community Bridge: Collaborate with Case Managers and local service providers to ensure practical, holistic support for participants.

• Hands-on Support: Assist with action plans, maintain simple activity logs, and participate in local community events and cultural gatherings.

• Identified Position: An applicant's response to this role must demonstrate Aboriginality. Genuine lived experience and strong cultural knowledge of local First Nations communities are essential.

• Life Experience over Certificates: You don't need a degree—you need real-world understanding, resilience, and a deep respect for culture.

• Strong Role Model: A steady, reliable character with the integrity to guide others through emotional, cultural, and social challenges.

• Strong Community Connection: Good local networks and a solid understanding of the justice system transition journey.

• Team & Cultural Fit: Someone who aligns with ALPA’s values, works well within a collaborative team, and stands up for safety and mutual respect.

• Practical Capability: Basic digital/communication skills for notes, a valid driver’s license, and willingness to travel to remote communities via vehicle or light aircraft.

• Meaningful Impact: Ground-level work that directly impacts community strength, healing, and reintegration.

• Strong Culture: A supportive, close-knit team environment grounded in mutual respect.

• Growth: Ongoing training, professional development, and culturally safe supervision.

• Rewards: Competitive remuneration package, including tax-saving salary packaging options.

If you are ready to bring your life experience, strength, and cultural knowledge to a dynamic team making a real difference, we want to hear from you.

Click "Apply Now" or contact Tash at alpa@randstad.com.au or on (08) 8923 4390 for a confidential discussion about the role.