About the organisation

Jesuit Social Services is a social change organisation working to build a just society where all people can live to their full potential. We reflect on the critical factors shaping our contemporary world; the social, political and economic contexts, and we adapt our practice to work with those most in need.

Since 1977, Jesuit Social Services has provided services to some of the most disadvantaged in our community.

We place a high priority on advocacy and are a leader in policy development and research.

About the program

Policy and Advocacy Unit

Drawing on our experience standing alongside people, families and communities who experience disadvantage through our services and programs, the Jesuit Social Services Policy and Advocacy Unit leads and supports advocacy on priority issues for Jesuit Social Services including through campaigns, position papers, engagement with decision makers, submissions, writing for media and participation in consultations.

To support this function we monitor and analyse developments in key policy areas relevant to the work and priorities of the organisation, including through media, sector networks, internal practice wisdom and lived experience, and contemporary evidence.

We work with the broader Advocacy and Strategic Communications directorate, and in partnership with other areas of the organisation as appropriate.

About the role

• Full time role available (1 EFT) (0.8 EFT negotiable)
• Annual salary rage of $110,000 - $130,000 (pro rata for part time) + super + salary packaging, depending on skills and experience
• Richmond location

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Policy and Advocacy Lead to join our Policy and Advocacy Unit. In this role, you will work closely with the General Manager, Policy and Advocacy and with senior leaders to drive the development and implementation of the policy and advocacy agenda for Jesuit Social Services. You will have a particular focus on building and maintaining strategic relationships with policy makers and sector partners. You will do this in a way that:

• is consistent with the mission of Jesuit Social Services
• draws on the practice wisdom and lived experience of Jesuit Social Services staff and program participants
• responds strategically to social policy issues in the broader environment.

You will lead and support advocacy including strategies to promote positive social and environmental change at local and national levels for people, families and communities experiencing disadvantage. Portfolio areas may include:

• Justice and crime prevention
• Education, training and employment
• Prevention of violence against women and children
• Child sexual abuse prevention
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Settlement and community building
• Refugee and asylum seeker issues
• Ecological and climate justice.

Competitive remuneration, plus salary packaging benefit, is offered together with ongoing professional and career development as well as opportunities for personal growth.

What Jesuit Social Services can offer you

• A comprehensive Induction and Orientation program
• Ongoing role related training and development
• An organisation that is a preferred employer and lives their values, through our day to day work
• A welcoming, collaborative and supportive team environment
• Employee assistance program
• A competitive salary plus salary packaging benefits
• Generous, above industry leave

Candidate requirements

This role will suit a candidate with the following skills and experience:

• Tertiary qualification/s in law, social sciences, public policy or a related discipline and/or relevant experience in policy development and advocacy on social issues.
• Demonstrated understanding of social and environmental justice, social inclusion and disadvantage in the context of government policy-making at the national and state/territory levels in Australia.
• Deep experience working within government and/or engaging with government decision makers and processes to influence policy and program outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience and skill in developing and driving strategic policy solutions, undertaking research and analysis, and contributing to the development of advocacy priorities.
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills which are logical, succinct and sensitive to purpose and audience needs.
• Capacity to skilfully handle difficult or sensitive topics and materials.

How to apply

• Click Apply Now to submit your application 
• Upload your resume and cover letter incorporating your responses to the Key Selection Criteria from the Position Description.
• For further information please contact Kate Allen, General Manager Policy & Advocacy on 0407 788 918.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and the closing date may be subject to change without notice.

A position description is attached.

Jesuit Social Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. We celebrate and welcome all people regardless of ethnicity, cultural background, age, gender, sexuality, disability or religious affiliation.

We strongly encourage applications from all community members including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, members of the LGBTIQA+ community, people with a disability, people of culturally diverse backgrounds and working parents.

Jesuit Social Services is a Child Safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. We require all applicants to undergo an extensive screening process prior to appointment.