This is an exciting permanent role at CHP which plays a pivotal role in advancing CHP's mission to end homelessness by developing innovative, evidence-based policy solutions in collaboration with consumers and the homelessness sector.

This includes creating advocacy strategies to promote the adoption of these solutions and conducting research into effective policy approaches and service delivery models, sharing this knowledge to strengthen the sector.

The role also contributes to the development and implementation of CHP's media strategy, working closely with the Deputy CEO, Manager, Storytelling and Engagement, and contracted media advisors.

In this position, the Manager, Policy and Advocacy works collaboratively with member organisations, consumers of homelessness programs, and volunteers from CHP's Peer Education and Support Program to shape policy positions and build coalitions of support to drive systemic change.

This is a full-time permanent role, with potential for part-time for the right candidate.

Vision

An end to homelessness in Victoria.

Purpose

To work with, for, and alongside the specialist homelessness sector to co-create, support, and deliver on the solutions to end homelessness in Victoria.

We believe…

• homelessness should be rare, brief, and non-recurring.
• self-determination is the pathway to ending Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander homelessness.
• ending homelessness is possible.
• homelessness is the outcome of structural inequity and inequality.
• in diversity, equity, and inclusion for every Victorian
• a collective voice for the sector will build more power and have more influence than any single voice alone.
• people with living and lived experience are crucial experts in ending homelessness.
• an equipped and resourced specialist homelessness sector can help us end homelessness.

Key responsibilities

The key responsibilities of the position include:  

• Policy development and research responsibilities: Deliver strategic policy advice to the Deputy CEO. Undertake policy development and research for CHP, including: developing policy positions related to preventing and ending homelessness; undertaking consumer and sector consultation to inform these policy positions; identifying research gaps and developing relevant research projects to advance CHP’s advocacy objectives; remaining up to date about new research findings related to preventing and ending homelessness; writing submissions or written responses to government processes; writing speeches, Parity articles, and briefing notes as required, and participating in relevant reference and work groups, meetings and consultations
• Advocacy and campaigns: Develop and implement advocacy and campaign strategies facilitating the adoption of CHP policy proposals, including: identifying allies within government, the sector and broader community; developing collaborative processes or alliances to advance issues; developing communication materials in consultation with the Manager of Storytelling and Engagement to support advocacy and campaign activities, such as platforms, background fact sheets, and letters to politicians; and planning and organising events to promote policy proposals.
• People management: Supervise volunteers, interns or project staff as needed
• General responsibilities: Participate in areas of shared responsibility as a CHP team member. Uphold CHP philosophies and goals. Always engage in professional and ethical conduct.

Selection criteria

Qualifications:

• Tertiary or post graduate qualification in Social Policy, Social Research, Social Work, Community Development, or related field or equivalent lived experience.

• Satisfactory Police Check. 

• Current Working with Children Check. 

If you would like to discuss this role in more detail, please contact [email protected] using the subject line: Manager - Policy and Advocacy enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Police and Working with Children Checks will be required prior to commencing employment.

A position description is attached.

The Council to Homeless Persons is an Equal Opportunity employer and embraces differences in gender, gender diversity, age, ethnicity, race, cultural background, ability, religion, and sexual orientation. We are committed to the safety of all children and have zero tolerance of child abuse. We acknowledge the first peoples of Australia and their unique role in our history and society and encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply for advertised positions. We recognise the benefit that diversity and inclusion play in helping achieve our goals and vision of ending homelessness.