About the Program 

A stable, prosperous, peaceful and resilient PNG is critical to Australia's interests. Australia is PNG's largest development partner; its main partner on economic and security issues. 

The Australia PNG Subnational Program (APSP) is an enabling mechanism comprised of three separately designed programs including; Bougainville Partnership, Kokoda Initiative Partnership and South Fly Resilience Plan and Western Province Partnership. Each program has its own outcomes, theory of change, operational approach and separate monitoring and evaluation systems. 

There are five high level outcomes which span all programs:

• Output one: Effective gender-centred programs delivered for Bougainville, Kokoda, and Western Province
• Output two: Support DFAT to coordinate Australian inputs in selected subnational contexts
• Output three: Technical assistance targeted at key institutions and policy reforms
• Output four: Rapid programming of resources in support of DFAT priorities
• Output five and six: Analysis, learning, and adaptation

Managed by Abt Associates under a single contract from 2022 to 2026, the centralised approach is aimed to ensure and drive value for money by realising back office efficiencies, ensure gender is consistently at the forefront of each program and deliver opportunities for learning and adaptation between programs.

The Kokoda Initiative Partnership (KIP) is a partnership between the Governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia to sustainably develop and protect the Kokoda Track and surrounding areas. The KIP support is delivered under three pillars: Track, People and Environment in alignment with the PNG Government’s Kokoda Initiative Master Plan.

Pillar 1 - TRACK Objective: A safe and well-managed track whose special military values and historical integrity are protected.

The KIP works with the Kokoda Track Authority (KTA), the Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG) to promote and protect the Kokoda Track, and enhance Track safety for local communities and visitors through effective policies and governance systems, Track maintenance and communications networks.

Pillar 2 - PEOPLE Objective: Enhanced quality of life and income for landowners and communities of the Kokoda Track region.

The KIP works with the Oro and Central Provincial health and education authorities, church health and education providers and NGOs to improve the quality of life for communities through health, education and community driven development projects and income generation activities.

Pillar 3 - ENVIRONMENT Objective: The sustainable use of the protected area.

The KIP supports the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) to protect the Kokoda Track and surrounding region and preserve the region’s unique biodiversity and cultural environments.

About the Opportunity

The Operations Adviser (Adviser) will oversee the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the Kokoda Track Authority (KTA). The Adviser will work closely with the CEO to execute the strategic vision and ensure the efficient and effective management of the Kokoda Track, promoting sustainable tourism and community development.

About You 

For applications to be considered, a response to the key selection criteria below must be provided;

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior operational management role.
• Proven track record of successful strategic planning and execution.
• Strong financial management skills.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
• Experience in community engagement and stakeholder management.
• Knowledge of the tourism industry and sustainable development practices.

Key competencies

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• High level of integrity and accountability.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of the Kokoda Track, the trekking and tourism industry and broader Kokoda catchment regions.
• Knowledge of DFAT’s social safeguards including Child protection, PSEAH, Gender Equality and Disability Inclusion.

For more information on the role and how to apply, please click on ‘GO TO PROVIDER WEBSITE’