Senior Curator, City of Melbourne Collection in Melbourne, Australia

Organisation: City of Melbourne
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Salary: AUD $121,095–$136,286 per annum + 12% superannuation
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Working arrangement: Flexible and hybrid working options available
Application deadline: 4 November 2026, 11:45 pm (Melbourne time)

The City of Melbourne is seeking a Senior Curator to lead the strategic development, management and activation of the City of Melbourne Collection, including the City Gallery and Collection Store.

Situated within the Creative Urban Places team in the Creative Melbourne branch, the position offers an opportunity to shape one of Australia’s significant art and heritage collections, ensuring it continues to reflect Melbourne’s evolving identity, diverse communities and contemporary creative landscape.

The successful candidate will oversee curatorial initiatives, exhibitions and public engagement programmes, working alongside Traditional Owners, artists, cultural institutions and community partners to strengthen connections between Melbourne’s art, history and heritage.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic development, acquisition, preservation and management of the City of Melbourne Collection.
• Oversee exhibitions, research projects, public programmes and digital initiatives that engage diverse audiences.
• Provide strategic direction for the City Gallery and collection operations, including conservation, budgets and risk management.
• Develop innovative curatorial approaches that enhance the collection’s accessibility and cultural significance.
• Build partnerships with Traditional Owners, artists, cultural organisations and community stakeholders.
• Lead, mentor and develop a dedicated curatorial team.

Requirements

Applicants should have:

• Tertiary qualifications in Museum Studies, Curatorial Practice, Collection Management, Arts Management, Cultural Heritage, History or a related discipline, supported by extensive professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience managing significant art, heritage or cultural collections, including acquisitions and collection care.
• Strong curatorial expertise in developing exhibitions, public programmes and research initiatives.
• Proven leadership experience, including managing and mentoring staff.
• Experience building relationships with government bodies, cultural institutions, artists and community organisations.
• Strong financial management, procurement, risk management and communication skills.

Benefits

The City of Melbourne offers flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options, professional development opportunities and study assistance.

Additional benefits include generous leave entitlements, up to 20 weeks of fully paid parental leave for primary carers, and opportunities for career progression.

Application deadline: 4 November 2026, 11:45 pm (Melbourne time).

Please note that applications may close earlier if a sufficient number of suitable candidates are received.

Image: Courtesy of City of Melbourne.