Who We Are:

Disability Resources Centre (DRC) is a values led advocacy and campaigning organisation. As a radically inclusive Disabled People's Organisation, we work towards our vision of a world built on disability justice and disability pride.  

DRC is funded to provide individual advocacy for adults with disability in Greater Melbourne and hosts a network connecting people with disability across Victoria. The team also works on systemic issues and conducts and supports campaigns that aim to provide long-term benefits for many people. DRC is committed to providing a workplace that is flexible and accessible for all its team members.

Our Vision: A world where Disability Justice and Disability Pride are embraced and celebrated by all.

Our Purpose: Together we strive to eliminate all forms of disability oppression and realise our human rights.

THE ROLE

We are looking for an experienced professional Advocate to join our team. The Advocacy Coordinator is part of a  dedicated team that is committed to achieving positive outcomes, improved access and equality for people with disability.

This is a varied role that includes conducting one to one advocacy, training and development of volunteers, outreach and partnership development, and engaging in systemic advocacy.

DRC is a dynamic organisation that is going through a time of great change. Within this role there are opportunities that can be adapted to suit the applicant's particular strengths and skills.

The position is classified at 5.1 in accordance with the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Award 2010. In addition to salary and superannuation we can offer leave loading and salary packaging options which increase your take home pay.

INDIVIDUAL AND SELF ADVOCACY SUPPORT

• Represent and/or assist adults with disabilities to represent their views, needs and expectations to disability service providers, mainstream service providers, governments, statutory authorities, and other bodies as required.

SYSTEMIC ADVOCACY / COMMUNITY SUPPORT

• The primary focus of this position is to provide Individual Advocacy however the Advocacy Coordinator may be requested to identify barriers to access, assist with campaigns and network with individuals, disability groups, advocacy providers and key people in the community.

Training

• Develop training pathways for volunteers as part of a larger drive to bring more people with disabilities into the advocacy sector workforce.

Reporting

• Internal and external reporting, including responsibilities for creating, maintaining and reviewing consumer files and ensure compliance with the relevant contracts, policies, standards and legislation.

GENERAL

• Work in collaboration with the DRC team.
• Display a high level of personal integrity and professionalism.
• Other duties as directed by the Executive Officer which may be required to achieve organisational or position specific objectives.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential:

• Identify as a person with lived experience of disability and/or chronic health issues.
• Experience of disability advocacy, disability service provision or a relevant tertiary qualification.
• Practical knowledge of the disability advocacy sector, relevant legislation, and enforcement processes.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of the issues and challenges relevant to people living with all disabilities.
• A detailed understanding of the support systems designed to support people with disability across various Government and non-Government sectors.
• A commitment to respectful communication with people living with a disability who may have diverse backgrounds and needs.
• Demonstrated commitment to disability rights, justice and inclusion.
• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, with minimum supervision and to be self-motivated.
• Ability to work well in a team and contribute to the larger organisation vision and mission.
• Demonstrated ability to work with people with complex needs including mental health.
• Computer literacy using Microsoft 365 & Teams.
• Willingness to travel throughout the Melbourne metropolitan area and, on occasions, state-wide.

Desirable:

• Demonstrated understanding of the needs and issues affecting people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities and/or First Nations Communities, and/or the LGBTQIA+ community and/or other minorities.
• Experience in supporting people with communication support needs would be valuable.

A position description is attached.