We're hiring: Development Officer (part-time)
NAVA is seeking a passionate and purpose-driven Development Officer to join our team. Applications close on 4 June 2025.
This brand-new part-time role is more than just fundraising. It is a strategic opportunity to power the delivery of NAVA’s First Nations Policy by building a financial foundation that can support the establishment of a Deputy Director, First Nations Policy and Advocacy – a transformational leadership position for the sector.
NAVA is looking for someone with strong values and a track record of securing income in the arts, non-profit, or social impact sectors. You’ll be instrumental in building new funding streams, growing philanthropic support, and activating partnerships that align with NAVA’s mission to make the visual arts sector more ethical, inclusive and sustainable.
You will be joining a small, passionate team committed to artist rights, structural reform, and equity across the sector.
What you'll do:
- Secure income to support delivery of NAVA’s First Nations Policy and the creation of a Deputy Director, First Nations Policy and Advocacy role
- Develop and maintain relationships with aligned philanthropic and corporate partners aligned with NAVA's values and mission
- Lead and deliver donor engagement and fundraising campaigns, including growing the Artists’ Benevolent Fund
- Prepare compelling grant applications and ensure compliance with all grant conditions, reporting requirements and acquittals
- Support the revitalisation and expansion of NAVA’s internal grant programs
- Track and report on fundraising progress, outcomes, and return on investment
- Collaborate across teams to embed fundraising strategies into NAVA’s broader work, including participation in regular staff meetings
- Support the Executive Director in implementing NAVA’s Reconciliation and Disability Action Plans, with a focus on financial sustainability.
What you’ll bring:
- Experience in fundraising, grant writing and partnership-building
- A strategic mindset and proactive approach
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A strong understanding of the arts, non-profit, social justice or social impact sectors
- Alignment with NAVA’s values and First Nations self-determination.
Why work with NAVA?
NAVA offers flexible working, a progressive workplace culture, and a benefits package that supports wellbeing and inclusion. You’ll have the chance to make a real difference – not only to NAVA, but to the future of the visual arts in Australia.
How to apply
We welcome applications in either written or video format.
Please submit either:
- A 1-3 page written response to the selection criteria outlining your interest and suitability for the role, a 1-2 page CV, and the names and contact details of 3 professional referees; or
- A video (max. 10 minutes) addressing the selection criteria, outlining your interest and suitability for the role, detail of relevant experience and the names and contact details of 3 professional referees.
Send your application to
Penelope Benton, Executive Director via recruitment@visualarts.net.au.au
Applications close on 4 June 2025
Interviews will take place via Zoom on 11 June 2025. If you already know that you are unavailable on this date, please mention this in your application.
Photo by Leeroy Todd Photo and Film, 2024
ID: Photo of a bright blue banner featuring the logo and name of NAVA — the National Association for the Visual Arts. The photo is taken from behind a seated audience, with a few blurred figures in the foreground.
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) is a national organisation whose staff and Board, as well as the artists, arts workers and organisations we represent, are based across hundreds of sovereign nations and unceded lands throughout the continent that has become colonially known as Australia.
NAVA acknowledges the Gadigal, Wangal, Dharug, Dharawal, and Dja Dja Wurrung as the Traditional Custodians and knowledge-holders of the lands on which NAVA staff currently live, learn and work.
We pay our deepest respects to all First Nations communities' ancestors and Elders.
Sovereignty was never ceded.
Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
