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

Central Office

Jesuit Social Services engages with people from diverse backgrounds experiencing complex problems, including those associated with mental illness, substance misuse, family breakdown, offending behaviour, homelessness, unemployment, poverty and social exclusion.

Jesuit Social Services operates a range of programs for disadvantaged young people, families and communities from various operational sites.

The Justice Project

The Justice Project will consolidate Jesuit Social Services’ practice, research and advocacy activity into an effective, streamlined body where practice, research and advocacy mutually inform one another.

It will have both a local and national perspective and will maintain and build international relationships through Jesuit and other networks.

Within a broad approach to criminal justice policy there will be a significant focus on youth justice policy incorporating existing Jesuit Social Services initiatives such as Worth Second Chance and advocacy around raising the age of criminal responsibility in partnership with other sector stakeholders.

The primary objective of The Justice Project is to have an impact on criminal justice policy both locally and nationally.

About the role

The Senior Policy Officer will contribute to the development and implementation of the policy and advocacy agenda of The Justice Project in a way that

• is consistent with our mission
• draws on the practice experience of our adult and youth justice programs staff and participants
• responds strategically to justice-related social policy issues in the broader environment, with an emphasis on issues related to youth justice.

The role will also assist in devising and undertaking advocacy on issues relating to our justice programs as well as strategies to promote positive change for those in contact with the justice system.

About you

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

• Tertiary qualification/s in law, social sciences, criminology, public policy or a related discipline and/or relevant experience in policy development and advocacy on social issues OR equivalent experience working in a justice-related role.
• Demonstrated understanding of criminal justice systems in Australia, including issues such as social exclusion, disadvantage and overrepresentation of particular cohorts, in the context of government policy-making at the national and state/territory levels in Australia.
• Demonstrated experience and skill in developing and driving strategic policy solutions, undertaking research and analysis, and contributing to the development of advocacy priorities.
• Superior written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills which are logical, succinct and sensitive to purpose and audience needs
• Demonstrated understanding of the workings of federal, state and local government systems and processes including the means to influence change.

How to Apply

• Upload your resume and cover letter incorporating your responses to the Key Selection Criteria from the Position Description.

For further information please email Tripti Yadav at [email protected] using the subject line: Senior Policy and Research Officer - The Justice Project enquiry via EthicalJobs.

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

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.

A position description is attached.