Capability Statement

Indigenous Job Match (IJM)

Introduction

Indigenous Job Match (IJM) is a 100% Indigenous-owned and operated recruitment platform and workforce development service, dedicated to connecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent with culturally safe, purpose-driven employers across Australia.

Founded by Edward Solien, a proud Torres Strait Islander man with ancestral ties to Badu Island, IJM was created to challenge the status quo—to build a system where First Nations people aren’t just included in the workforce, but respected, empowered, and supported to lead.

With deep community roots and lived experience navigating mainstream systems, our team understands the real barriers mob face when looking for work—and the real opportunities for organisations ready to do better.

Our capability goes beyond job advertising. We provide:

  • Targeted recruitment support

  • Cultural mentoring for staff and managers

  • Panel interview services

  • Training, tools, and strategic advice to meet Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) commitments

At the heart of everything we do is a simple principle:

We don’t match people to jobs. We match mob to places where they can belong.

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Message from our Founder

When I founded Indigenous Job Match, it wasn’t just about creating a platform. It was about creating a movement—one grounded in truth, culture, and opportunity for our Mob.

As a proud Torres Strait Islander man, and someone who has lived through both the personal and professional challenges that come with navigating mainstream systems, I know what it means to walk between two worlds. I’ve seen firsthand the barriers our people face—not just in accessing employment, but in being valued, respected, and supported once they get there.

This Capability Statement is more than just a summary of our services. It’s a reflection of our values and our unwavering commitment to helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people find deadly jobs in places that see their culture as a strength—not a checkbox.

Every service we offer—from writing culturally appropriate job ads to sitting in on recruitment panels—is designed with one purpose: to make recruitment more culturally safe, more inclusive, and more transformative for both job seekers and employers.

We’re not here to tick boxes. We’re here to help you build bridges between your organisation and First Nations talent—bridges that are strong, respectful, and grounded in cultural understanding. We’re proud to stand alongside employers who are ready to do the work, not just talk about it.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about what we do. Whether you’re an organisation seeking to create real change, or a community leader looking for the right partner—we hope this document inspires confidence in who we are, what we deliver, and most importantly, why we do it.

Because every job we help create, every candidate we support, every employer we educate—brings us closer to a future where our Mob not only survive, but thrive.

With respect and determination,

Edward Solien

Founder – Indigenous Job Match

Language & Cultural Protocols

At Indigenous Job Match language is not just communication—it’s identity, power, and story. We honour and uphold the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures by embedding cultural protocols into every aspect of our work. This is not an add-on or afterthought—it’s foundational.

We acknowledge that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are not a monolith. We are over 250 Nations, each with unique languages, laws, customs, and knowledge systems. Our protocols reflect this diversity and guide how we speak, write, engage, and represent culture throughout our services.

Our Commitment to Cultural and Language Integrity Includes:

Respectful Terminology

We use language that reflects the preferences of the communities we serve. Terms such as “Mob,” “First Nations,” “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander,” and “Blak” are used intentionally and respectfully, always with guidance from local knowledge holders and Elders.

Recognition of Sovereignty and Diversity

We recognise the sovereign rights of all First Nations peoples and actively acknowledge the diversity of Clans, Language Groups, and cultural identities across the continent and surrounding islands. We avoid pan-Aboriginal approaches and ensure local voices are centred where relevant.

Cultural Permission and Informed Representation

We follow cultural protocols when using or referring to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander imagery, names, voices, or stories. This includes seeking informed consent, consulting with Elders, and respecting restrictions on sacred knowledge or content that requires permission or authority to share.

Story and Knowledge Respect

We understand that sharing someone’s lived experience, cultural story, or community insight requires deep care. We never exploit or reframe Indigenous stories for convenience or marketing. Every story we share is done with permission, reciprocity, and cultural accountability.

Localised Engagement

Whenever possible, we prioritise the inclusion of local Elders, community leaders, and Traditional Owners in our recruitment activities, especially for Identified roles or positions based on Country. We recognise that Country and community matter, and recruitment must reflect this.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Governance

Our internal governance is shaped by cultural values, including respect for kinship, community obligations, and cultural leadership. These protocols inform how we make decisions, hold ourselves accountable, and deliver our services.

Language matters. Culture matters. Consent matters.

At IJM, cultural respect is not negotiable—it’s the core of how we operate, who we hire, and how we serve.

Our Purpose

Indigenous Job Match is a 100% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned business committed to connecting Mob with meaningful, culturally safe employment opportunities across Australia. We do this by partnering with employers who align with our values and are committed to building workplaces where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can thrive.

Our Mission

Our Mission Indigenous Job Match is dedicated to empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by connecting them with meaningful employment opportunities that respect and honour their cultural heritage. We strive to bridge the gap between Indigenous communities and organisations committed to fostering diverse and inclusive workplaces, thus contributing to the social and economic advancement of First Nations peoples.

Our Vision

At Indigenous Job Match, our vision is a future where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are fully represented, respected, and empowered in every sector of the Australian workforce. We envision workplaces where cultural heritage, knowledge, and identity are celebrated as strengths and where meaningful, long-term employment opportunities support economic independence, personal growth, and the flourishing of First Nations communities.

Our Values

At Indigenous Job Match, our values are the cornerstone of our mission to support and advance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment. We are committed to respect, empowerment, and integrity in every action we take. We collaborate with partners who share our vision for inclusivity and innovation, championing sustainable and equitable career opportunities. Through our advocacy, we aim to influence positive change and enhance access to meaningful employment for First Nations peoples.

Respect for Culture - Honouring the rich cultures, languages, and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in all our operations.

Empowerment - Empowering Indigenous individuals through career opportunities that enhance their skills and economic independence.

Integrity - Conducting our operations with transparency, honesty, and respect for all individuals and communities we serve.

Collaboration - Building strong partnerships with businesses and Indigenous communities to achieve mutual goals.

Inclusivity - Creating an inclusive environment that embraces the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our candidates and partners.

Sustainability - Promoting practices that contribute to the sustainable development of Indigenous communities.

Advocacy - Advocating for policies and practices that enhance employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Why Choose Indigenous Job Match for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Recruitment?

Indigenous Job Match is Australia’s trusted Indigenous-owned recruitment platform, built to connect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander job seekers with culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful employers. We’re more than just a job board—we’re a culturally grounded service committed to closing the employment gap through genuine partnerships, lived experience, and long-term support.

Employers across the country choose IJM to:

  • Advertise Aboriginal jobs and Torres Strait Islander jobs to a targeted audience

  • Access Indigenous talent from all industries, experience levels, and locations

  • Improve recruitment outcomes through culturally safe hiring practices

  • Meet Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) goals with measurable impact

  • Build inclusive workplaces where First Nations employees thrive

Whether you’re looking to recruit Indigenous staff, strengthen your diversity and inclusion strategy, or demonstrate your commitment to reconciliation, IJM provides a full-service solution—combining job advertising, cultural mentoring, employer education, and customised support.

With a reach that spans urban, regional, and remote communities, and services tailored for both government and private sector organisations, IJM ensures that your recruitment efforts are authentic, respectful, and effective.

Our Core Services

Culturally Safe Job Ad Creation

Writing Culturally Appropriate Job Ads

We craft job ads that speak directly to Mob, using inclusive, accessible, and strengths-based language.

What’s included:

  • Rewriting or co-writing your job ad using culturally safe language

  • Incorporating your RAP, DEIB, or community partnerships

  • Formatting for clarity and online visibility

  • Translation or Elder consultation

Price: $350 + GST per job ad

Deadly Job Advertising Packages

Advertise Your Role

Service Description:

Indigenous Job Match (IJM) offers flexible, affordable, and culturally powerful job advertising options designed to connect your role with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander job seekers. All packages include our Concierge Service – we post the ad for you, saving you time and ensuring it’s done right.

Pricing

Core Job Ad – $165 (incl. GST)

A strong foundation for connecting with Mob.

  • 1 job listed on IJM for 14 days

  • Job alert sent to candidates

  • Concierge Ad Inclusion – we post for you

Boost Job Ad – $275 (incl. GST)

Amplify your reach and visibility.

  • Everything in the Core Ad, plus:

  • Distribution via Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community grapevine (email)

  • Google Jobs network listing

  • Social media promotion on Blak-led platforms, groups, and pages

  • Company logo included

BLAK & Deadly Ad – $27.50 (incl. GST)*

For charities, Indigenous orgs, and community groups.*

  • 1 premium listing for 30 days

  • All Boost-level features included

  • Perfect for not-for-profits and grassroots organisations

**Eligibility criteria apply

Momentum Pack – $550 (incl. GST)

5x Core Job Ads – $110 per ad

  • Save $75 compared to standalone pricing

  • 14-day listings with job alerts and concierge posting

Growth Pack – $990 (incl. GST)

10x Core Job Ads – $99 per ad

  • Save $260

  • Keep a steady stream of opportunities live on IJM

Partnership Pack – $1,760 (incl. GST)

20x Core Job Ads – $88 per ad

  • Save $740

  • Ideal for large-scale or ongoing recruitment

Connections Pack – $850 (incl. GST)

5x Boost Job Ads – $170 per ad

  • Save $525 compared to individual Boost ads

Empowerment Pack – $1,700 (incl. GST)

10x Boost Job Ads – $170 per ad

  • Save $1,050

  • Includes all Boost features across every job listing

Pathways Pack – $3,200 (incl. GST)

20x Boost Job Ads – $160 per ad

  • Save $2,300

  • For organisations serious about long-term Indigenous recruitment

Targeted Talent Search

Sourcing Candidates – IJM Talent Finder Service

Service Description:

Our Talent Finder Service is a proactive, culturally informed candidate sourcing solution. We don’t just post your job—we actively search for and engage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates who align with your role requirements and organisational values.

With strong community connections and a growing network of First Nations job seekers, IJM ensures you receive a curated shortlist of talent who bring both skill and cultural integrity.

What’s included:

  • Targeted access to the IJM Talent Network

  • Proactive outreach and culturally aware shortlisting

  • Tailored sourcing for community-identified or Identified roles

  • Collaboration with local Elders or organisations where appropriate

Price:

$1,500 + GST per role

(Benchmark: Industry-standard sourcing services often range from $1,200–$2,000+ without cultural matching or community engagement. IJM delivers both.)

Culturally Grounded Screening & Selection

Service Description:

Our Screening & Selection service blends professional recruitment practices with cultural understanding and lived experience. We ensure that every candidate is assessed fairly and respectfully, with attention to cultural identity, values alignment, and genuine readiness for the role.

We support employers to make informed hiring decisions while upholding cultural safety throughout the recruitment process.

What’s included:

  • Structured interviews tailored for cultural respect and role fit

  • Verification of qualifications, skills, and lived experience

  • Detailed cultural alignment and strengths-based fit reporting

  • Reference checks

  • National Police Check coordination (and Working With Children Check if required

Price:

$3,000 + GST per role (includes up to 3 shortlisted candidates)

$500 + GST per additional shortlisted candidate

(Benchmark: Comparable agency services range from $3,000–$5,000+, often without cultural screening or lived experience insight.)

Panel Interview Support

Service Description:

At IJM, we offer culturally informed support during your recruitment panel process. Our presence ensures your interviews remain culturally safe, inclusive, and fair—particularly for Identified roles or when assessing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates.

Our team can serve as an independent observer, cultural advisor, or full panel member to provide insight on cultural nuance, lived experience, and respectful questioning practices. This service helps eliminate bias and supports your organisation’s commitment to inclusive recruitment.

What’s included:

  • Participation by an IJM representative in your panel interview (virtual or in-person*)

  • Cultural insight and feedback on candidate responses

  • Real-time flagging of potential bias or exclusion

  • Post-panel debrief if requested

Price:

$250 + GST per panel session

*(Additional travel fees may apply for in-person attendance outside major cities)

Culturally Grounded Mentoring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Staff and Their Managers

Service Description:

The Mir Wapil Goal Setting and Mentoring Program is a culturally grounded initiative that empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals to define, pursue, and achieve their personal and professional goals through structured, culturally safe mentoring.

‘Mir Wapil’, meaning “moving forward” in Torres Strait Creole, captures the spirit of the program—encouraging participants to visualise their future, walk in their truth, and take actionable steps toward meaningful change. The program is built on a foundation of respect, self-determination, and holistic wellbeing.

Each participant is paired with an experienced mentor who provides guidance through personalised sessions that respect cultural identity, life experience, and local context. Whether focused on career development, education, leadership, or personal growth, Mir Wapil is about building confidence, resilience, and long-term success.

What’s included:

  • One-on-one mentoring partnerships with experienced, culturally aware professionals

  • Culturally aligned goal-setting frameworks

  • Regular progress tracking and motivational check-ins

  • Leadership and confidence-building strategies

  • Holistic support for personal, professional, and cultural development

Price:

$1,500 + GST per participant

Additional Notes:

Flight costs may be included depending on location and travel requirements. Additional travel charges may apply for participants in remote or non-standard areas. All travel arrangements are discussed during program planning.

 

Let’s Create a Future Where Mob Thrive at Work

At Indigenous Job Match, we don’t just help you fill roles—we help you create workplaces where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people feel safe, respected, and valued.

From job advertising and mentoring to culturally safe recruitment and strategic advice, our services are designed to walk alongside employers who are serious about change—not just ticking a box.

We believe our people deserve more than opportunities. We deserve environments that embrace our identities, honour our cultures, and support our leadership.

Whether you’re just beginning your reconciliation journey or ready to deepen your impact, IJM is here to help you do it right—with integrity, respect, and community at the centre.

Ready to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce?

Get in touch with us today to start your journey.

Together, we can change the narrative—one workplace at a time.