Research Assistant

About the role

Barayamal is looking for a volunteer Research Assistant to support practical research, evidence collection, and concise write-ups that strengthen its work with First Nations entrepreneurs and community-led innovation.

This is an unpaid volunteer position with no set minimum hours. Contributors decide what they can reasonably commit, and tasks are matched to their availability. This is not a paid employment role.

Key activities

• Conduct online research on entrepreneurship, social impact, funding, policy, grants, market developments, and ecosystem trends connected to First Nations business and community-led innovation.
• Turn articles, reports, datasets, and public sources into short notes, briefing documents, or reference lists.
• Keep basic research trackers, source registers, and findings logs up to date.
• Support the preparation of background content for reports, grant submissions, program planning, communications, or stakeholder updates.
• Verify references, sources, and publicly available information for accuracy.

Preferred background and skills

Relevant experience or study in research, analysis, business, policy, social impact, communications, data, economics, or a related area is useful.

The role suits someone who can break down complex information into clear, accurate summaries, pay close attention to detail, and check sources carefully. Familiarity with Google Docs, Google Sheets, or similar tools is helpful. An interest in First Nations entrepreneurship, economic development, social impact, or community-led innovation is also valuable.

Volunteer arrangement

There is no fixed minimum time commitment. Volunteers contribute based on what they can realistically take on, and most tasks can be completed remotely and asynchronously. Clear communication about availability is expected.

Location requirement

Applicants must currently live in Australia so the volunteer arrangement fits the local context and coordination requirements.

Application process

Shortlisted candidates may be asked to complete Barayamal's volunteer application form to help the team better understand skills, availability, and preferred ways of contributing.

Additional information

This opportunity is a volunteer role and does not include pay or a fixed work schedule.