First Peoples employees in mid-level roles are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest for this leadership development and coaching program.
This program is delivered in partnership with Yimburu, a First Peoples-led consultancy specialising in leadership, coaching and organisational development and is designed for the Victorian context. It supports participants to strengthen leadership capability, influence, connect with peers and experienced leaders, and grow their impact in a culturally safe environment.
If you are eligible, submit an Expression of Interest by 6 November 2026.
Managers are encouraged to discuss this opportunity with eligible employees and support their participation.
Applications close 6 November 2026.
You can also email us with your questions at [email protected]
We encourage Expressions of Interest from eligible First Peoples employees working in:
The program is intended for people who:
Not sure if you are eligible? Email us at: [email protected]
Participants will have the opportunity to:
This leadership development and coaching program supports First Peoples employees to strengthen their leadership capability, deepen self-awareness and grow their impact.
The Victorian Public Sector Commission delivers the program in partnership with Yimburu. Through coaching, leadership development and applied project work, participants will reflect on their strengths, identify areas for growth, and build leadership practices that are grounded in culture, values and lived experience.
The program focuses on leadership in action. Participants will connect personal and professional development with real workplace challenges and projects.
The program is designed for public sector context and centres cultural identity, lived experience and culturally safe practice.
The program runs from February to October 2027. Participants are expected to complete:
As part of the program, managers are expected to:
Participants will attend an immersive on-Country leadership residential that includes:
The residential gives participants the opportunity to connect with peers, share their experiences, and learn from First Peoples leaders in a culturally safe environment. Further details will be provided to participants.
Accommodation will be in an on-Country setting designed to support cultural immersion and connection to Country and community.
Accommodation for the residential is covered by the Victorian Public Sector Commission. Any additional travel and accommodation costs must be met by the participant’s home organisation, in line with its travel policies.
Managers play an important role in supporting First Peoples employees to access leadership opportunities. Their support helps participants engage fully in the program and contributes to a stronger pipeline of First Peoples leaders across the public sector.
Because program activities take place during work hours, applicants must have their manager’s approval before applying.
As part of the Expression of Interest, applicants will be asked to confirm they have spoken with their managers and have received their support. Applicants will need to provide their manager’s name and email address so that we can then directly email managers confirming that they:
More information is available in the Expression of Interest form.
There are 20 places available in this program at the cost of $6000 per participant (including GST).
This fee is typically covered upfront through departmental contributions; however, departments that have not contributed will be responsible for the cost.
The funding does not cover:
Hear from past participants about their leadership journey, what they gained from the program, and the impact it had on their work and career.
If you are ready to invest in your leadership development and explore your next step as a leader, seek support from your manager and submit an Expression of Interest.
Managers are encouraged to discuss this opportunity with eligible employees and support their participation in the program.
Email us at [email protected].