Senior Art Curator and Manger

Lead a dynamic cultural program that connects community, Country and campus Deliver programs and partnerships within architect-designed gallery spaces

• Be based in Newcastle, a vibrant regional city with a strong creative community and outstanding lifestyle

The University of Newcastle is seeking a visionary Senior Art Curator and Manager, University Galleries (HEW 8/9) to drive curatorial excellence, strategic direction, community connection and operational leadership for its University Galleries and art collection.

This role offers a rare opportunity to lead the next phase of growth for an established and highly regarded galleries program, strengthening cultural impact, partnerships and reputation within the region and the national arts sector.

The role

As Head of the University Galleries Unit, you will shape and deliver the strategic vision, curatorial direction and operational leadership of the University’s galleries and art collections, aligned with the University’s Arts and Culture Strategy 2025–2030.

This includes stewardship of the University Art Collection, which includes one of the largest collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art held by any Australian university, requiring culturally informed leadership, ethical governance and sector credibility.

Reporting within the Vice-Chancellor’s Division, you will lead a small specialist team and casual workforce, operate with a high degree of autonomy, and manage your own budget. The role is both strategic and outward-facing, requiring strong engagement across the University and with the broader arts and cultural community.

You will:

• Lead and deliver a research-informed annual exhibition program across multiple gallery sites
• Provide senior curatorial leadership for the University Art Collection — including one of the largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collections of any university holding — encompassing acquisitions, commissions, deaccessions and touring exhibitions