APS 6 Curator – National Portrait Gallery of Australia

Overview

The National Portrait Gallery of Australia seeks an APS 6 Curator to join its Curatorial & Collection Section. The successful candidate will contribute to the Gallery's artistic program through research and curation of exhibitions, collection development, interpretation, writing, public engagement, and professional networking. This is a paid professional position suited to experienced museum or gallery curators with strong knowledge of Australian art, history, visual culture, and portraiture.

Position Details

• Reports to: Senior Curator
• Location: Parkes, Canberra, Australia (onsite; remote applicants cannot be considered)
• Salary: AUD $99,734–$116,758
• Work areas: Exhibitions, collection development, interpretation, public programs, touring and online programming

Responsibilities

• Research and curate high-quality exhibitions for onsite, touring, and online programs
• Research and interpret the Gallery's permanent collection and contribute to collection displays
• Participate in all stages of the collection acquisitions process
• Produce correspondence, reports, essays, exhibition texts, online content, and other publications
• Develop exhibition layouts and installations in collaboration with exhibition designers
• Participate in public speaking and media engagement
• Support learning, access, events, and internship mentoring programs
• Contribute to philanthropic activities and related stakeholder events
• Work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary project teams
• Develop professional networks supporting the Gallery and its programs

Eligibility

Applicants should have demonstrated knowledge of Australian art, history, and visual culture; curatorial experience in a gallery or museum; and experience in collection building. Tertiary qualifications in Australian art history or a related field, or equivalent experience, are expected. Experience in the cultural sector and a record of published writing are required. Applicants must be able to work onsite at the Gallery in Parkes, Canberra; remote applications are not accepted.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 8 September 2026
• Start Date: 3 August 2026

How to Apply

Applications should be emailed to [email protected].

Selection Criteria

The selection process places significant emphasis on curatorial expertise, Australian art and history, communication, research, collaboration, time management, problem-solving, stakeholder relationships, and adherence to Australian Public Service values and the APS Code of Conduct.