Join OPAN in this vital role to support the implementation of strategic initiatives in relation to supporting the national advocate workforce to achieve national consistency in the service delivery aspects of the National Aged Care Advocacy Program, making a difference in the lives of older people across our communities.

• Apply your consultative approach and strengths in human service delivery, writing of guidance materials, or project management, to be a part of implementing key projects and initiatives for the National Aged Care Advocacy Program.
• Hybrid work environment available. Working 3 days in the office and optional 2 days from home if desired. Office based in Brisbane
• Collaborative and positive work environment

Impact of the organisation

Older Persons Advocacy Networks (OPAN) is a national network of nine independent member organisations that give a voice to older people who are eligible or receiving aged care services.

The network provides free, confidential, aged care advocacy, information and education to older Australians, their families or representatives. OPAN works with the government to influence aged care policy through systemic advocacy.

Their collective vision is of a society where older people are heard, informed and respected, and where they can enjoy and exercise their rights to live fulfilling lives.

Impact you will have in this role

Practice Officer plays a vital role in the development of resources and engagement opportunities to support initiatives aimed at ensuring uniformity in the service delivery components across the National Aged Care Advocacy Program (NACAP).

This is an important opportunity to engage key stakeholders and support the development of advocacy practice development initiatives for NACAP on a national scale. The ideal candidate has extensive advocacy experience, strong written communication skills and qualifications in human services, social work or the equivalent.

We are searching for a consultative professional, who is adaptable and has a collaborative focus to get the best results for this national program. The team at OPAN will invest in your learning, and will provide you with the opportunity to immerse in the program to understand key information and challenges firsthand.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in implementing key advocacy practice projects according to the NACAP Activity Workplan and the OPAN National Secretariat Operational Plan
• Apply your strong writing skills to aid in the collaborative creation of NACAP Advocacy Practice Guidelines and national training resources.
• Support policy-to-practice initiatives including supporting internal communities of practice.
• Collaborate with the practice team to help develop and enhance the Network’s Advocacy workforce and conduct consultations with OPAN member organisations regarding significant NACAP practice initiatives
• Engage with essential stakeholders that include internal stakeholders on a national scale, and external stakeholders that include Government representatives
• Ensure all documentation is accurate and completed in a professional and timely manner
• Analyse and interpret complex information, and convey it clearly and effectively to others through written and verbal communication channels
• Manage and prioritise multiple tasks effectively, while demonstrating high levels of adaptability and flexibility
• Promote and support a commitment to continuous quality improvement across relevant areas of the organisation

Skills and Experience

• In-depth and demonstratable knowledge of the Australian ageing, advocacy, and or disability and human service systems. Ideally with a strong background in advocacy, social work, human services or equivalent and experience in the aged care sector.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly and concisely articulate information through multiple channels
• Demonstrated understanding of the principles of project management, with experience managing internal stakeholder consultation and engagement to support project delivery and implementation
• Understanding of social work engagement best practices to guide and influence others in resource development and training
• A highly collaborative manner and consultative approach with the ability to work closely with other Practice Team staff on collective work projects and work as part of a team and contribute to achieving team outcomes
• High level organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks across multiple projects to meet strict and competing deadlines across the organisation with the ability to pivot and be flexible when needed
• Ability to take feedback, and incorporate the knowledge and views of others to promote engagement on a national scale
• High level knowledge in Microsoft Office and database programs
• Demonstrated knowledge and the ability to access and understand Government policies and legislation relating to older people and people with a disability, in particular the Aged Care Act
• Strong communication skills with the ability to create resources that assist others to understand complex practice matters
• Demonstrated ability to be flexible and responsive to changing work priorities

OPAN acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first people of Australia and the sovereign Custodians of the country, and in supporting the human rights of older people recognises and respects the human rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. OPAN is an EEO employer and we value diversity within our organisation.

Applications

Please apply by uploading your resume.

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected] or [email protected] using the subject line: Practice Officer - Older Persons Advocacy Network enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Impact Advising is committed to creating diverse and inclusive work environments that reflect the rich tapestry of our communities. We believe that diversity enriches organisations and fosters innovation. We are dedicated to building workforces that are a representative of the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our society. We embrace diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and cultural background.

We actively seek to foster inclusive workplaces where all employees can bring their whole selves to work, feel respected and valued, and have equal opportunities for growth and advancement. We are committed to providing a fair and unbiased recruitment process, and we strive to eliminate any barriers that may impede the inclusion and participation of underrepresented groups in workforces