Creative Development Officer – Tjanpi Desert Weavers
Applications close May 25, 2026
NPYWC Program: Tjanpi Desert Weavers
Tjanpi Desert Weavers (Tjanpi) was initiated by NPY Women’s Council in 1995 in response to an expressed need by Anangu women for meaningful and culturally appropriate employment. Since 1995, Tjanpi (meaning ‘dry grass’) has evolved into a vital and dynamic Indigenous social enterprise of NPY Women’s Council and enables women on the lands to earn a regular income from selling their fibre art. More than 400 Aboriginal women artists across 350,000 square kilometres of the Central and Western Desert region of Australia come together on country to create beautiful, intricate and whimsical fibre art. The Tjanpi team is made up of 12 staff who support this social enterprise within Alice Springs and in the communities.
The Creative Development Officer is responsible for the creative development of fibre artists in the NPY lands to ensure fibre work is created for both the retail economy and the contemporary arts market and an innovative, evolving fibre arts practice maintains our position in the broad Australian arts landscape.
This is a unique opportunity to work alongside Aboriginal women artists across the NPY Lands, supporting the creative development of fibre art within a culturally rich and community-led environment. The role focuses on mentoring artists, facilitating workshops, and contributing to the growth of a dynamic Indigenous social enterprise, while working closely with communities on Country.
Employment Details: Full Time – Fixed Term until December 2028.
Location: Negotiable options: Based in Warakurna servicing the Ngaanyatjarra (NG)
Base Salary: $91,248.41 – $102,296.31 per annum (negotiable based on experience)
Benefits: Remote workers receive free accommodation and services (water, internet & electricity); all workers regardless of location receive generous leave entitlements; free access to Employee Assistance program, further salary packaging benefits and more.
To find out more about this position, please contact Michelle Young (Tjanpi Manager) on 08 8958 2336 or visit https://www.npywc.org.au/blogs/employment for more information about the role and what its like to work for Tjanpi Desert Weavers!
Please note, this position may close earlier if a suitable candidate is identified. Early applications are encouraged.