Assistant Curator of Art – Affirmative Measures Position

The Australian War Memorial combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive.

Under general direction, the position will provide curatorial assistance in the management of, and support to, major Indigenous (and non-Indigenous) art, photography, film and sound commissions and acquisitions. The role will also include collection research, documentation and management; participation in public programming; and responding to public enquiries. An important element of the role will be to assist in the ongoing management of collection protocols for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collection materials, and outreach and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and communities Australia-wide.

Core Responsibilities

  • Contribute to the management of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collection material and participate in the ongoing strategic development and implementation of collection cultural protocols.
  • Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, with a particular focus on engaging, and maintaining strong, ongoing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
  • Under general direction and professional supervision participate in the control, maintenance, care and development of the art, photography, film and sound collection, with a particular focus on (but not limited to) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander material including:
  • Preparation of recommendations related to acquisitions;
  • Assistance with the Memorial’s commissioning programs;
  • Undertaking the cataloguing of works of art;
  • Arranging for the movement of works of art through the collection management system and arranging for conservation and photography of items;
  • Ensuring all relevant documentation is entered in the collection management system
  • Respond to copyright issues in relation to the art collection.
  • Contribute to the planning and production of exhibitions, gallery displays, changeovers and new digital and online interpretative projects.
  • Liaise with other areas of the Memorial, researchers, artists, dealers, museums, institutions and organisations including  on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture; as well as respond to public enquiries related to the collection and provide advice on its historical and cultural significance.
  • Contribute to the activities of the section including taking responsibility for project, publication and research assignments, as well as administrative tasks.
  • As required, represent the Memorial at meetings and public fora.
  • Undertake manual handling and movement of a wide range of objects including but not limited to boxes, framed prints and paintings, photographic negatives, and other collection items as required.
  • Abide by and further the principals and practices of Work Health and Safety as outlined in the WHS Act, taking reasonable care for their own health and safety and ensuring that their acts or omissions do not adversely affect the health and safety of other persons.

The Australian War Memorial

Where else in the world can you work in a multi-award-winning institution, among such an extraordinary collection of national treasures, housed in the nation’s most revered commemorative site? The Australian War Memorial really is an exciting and innovative place to work.

For more information and to apply please refer to https://www.awm.gov.au/get-involved/work-or-volunteer/employment