Music Education: Right from the Start is a collaborative national initiative, led by Alberts I The Tony Foundation. It is driven by our collective belief in the power of music to change lives. It focuses on the place and purpose of music within a quality education, and how to ensure access for all Australian primary school children. It has been supported from its inception by individuals and organisations spanning the music industry, education, research and philanthropy. The initiative seeks to work collaboratively with government and other key stakeholders to understand and find solutions to the key barriers preventing access to a quality music education.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced advocacy and strategy specialist, ideally with a background in government relations, to drive the Music Education: Right from the Start initiative during the next, critical phase of its development.

This role will suit someone who is a highly-organised and self-directed professional, and who is willing to be an active player in our small team. You will be a strategic thinker, influential communicator and relationship builder with a genuine interest in systems change, education, music, and young people. You'll report to our Executive Director - Head of Impact and Music Education.

This is a part-time (2 - 2.5 days/week) appointment preferably based in Sydney, with consideration given to flexible arrangements and working remotely.

What you'll do

You will drive the Music Education: Right from the Start initiative, together with the small project team. You will:

• Implement the strategic plan and program of work for Phase 2.
• Develop and execute advocacy campaigns to influence policy decisions.
• Manage strategic working groups to guide policy development and collaborative activities.
• Engage with stakeholders across government sectors, the music industry, education, research, and philanthropy.
• Oversee the communications strategy and prepare communications for key stakeholders.
• Measure progress and report regularly to senior leadership.

About you

• You have a strong background in public policy and/or advocacy, with relevant tertiary qualifications, and experience in government relations or advocacy
• You possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and are capable of producing high-quality briefs, submissions and reports
• You have strong relationship building and stakeholder management skills
• You are a creative and strategic thinker, able to generate innovative ideas that drive systemic change
• You have a genuine interest in driving positive change for young people through music education
• You exhibit strong organisational and project management skills.