About OPAN

OPAN is a national network of 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. We are independent of the government and aged care providers.

OPAN, the national body, works with the government to influence aged care policy through systemic advocacy. The nine state and territory member organisations deliver advocacy services for older people across Australia. Our 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.

OPAN is an inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from people of diverse backgrounds, including all ages, cultures and genders.

About the Role

The purpose of the Consumer Volunteer Group Coordinator is to coordinate and support the National Older Persons Reference Group (NOPRG) and associated sub-groups, as the key consultative group of older people for OPAN, and to facilitate the NOPRG’s engagement in other consultations, activities and events.

This position has a key role in ensuring the voices of older people are actively engaged in OPAN work and have opportunities to engage in wider aged care reform processes.

Key responsibilities of this role include:

• Coordinating NOPRG meetings including agenda, guest speakers, facilitators, minute-taking, action items, and liaison with attendees.
• Facilitating NOPRG sub-group meetings.
• Coordinating NOPRG engagement in OPAN advisory groups, consultations and other forums and be the liaison point between NOPRG members and external organisations, as required, for consultations, submissions, webinars etc.
• Coordinating membership communication and information.

• Providing membership support to NOPRG members and maintaining strong relationships with members.
• Coordinating administration for the NOPRG.

• Ensuring that all work is carried out in accordance with OPAN’s employee policies and processes.

The role can be worked remotely so locations other than Sydney are acceptable.

About You

You will have the following:

• Demonstrated experience in the Community Development sector or in consumer/volunteer support, preferably in the ageing or disability sectors
• Experience in delivering inclusive and culturally competent services
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting choice and control and the human rights of older people
• Understanding of the supports needed by older people to fully participate in this group (e.g. people with dementia)
• Intermediate to advanced MS Office skills (Excel, Word and PowerPoint)
• Strong verbal communication and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively with diverse peoples
• Excellent conflict resolution skills and able to manage expectations
• Advanced problem-solving skills

• A good listener, who is patient and empathic
• Tertiary qualifications in health, aged, disability or related studies or appropriate relevant work experience.
• Experience working from a home office and managing yout time is ideal.

The successful applicant will hold or be able to obtain a current National Criminal Record Check.

What’s on Offer

• A rewarding opportunity that can make a difference to Australia’s older persons
• Ongoing training and learning opportunities

• Generous Salary Packaging Benefits - $15,900 tax free

OPAN also recognises the importance of diversity. We are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect.

Visit www.opan.org.au to learn more about OPAN.