• Full time / Part time for the right candidate
• Canberra ACT
• $116,435 - $131,311 depending on experience, plus super

This is a designated position in accordance with s.42, Discrimination Act 1991 and is only open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people

About the organisation

ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS) advocates for social justice in the ACT, representing people experiencing poverty, disadvantage and other forms of exclusion as well as not-for-profit community organisations. The mission is to ensure that government policies improve the lives of disadvantaged individuals and that community services are properly resourced and supported. ACTCOSS is part of the nationwide COSS network, which includes state and territory councils as well as the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS).

ACTCOSS’s Gulanga Program works to help ACT community sector organisations develop and improve culturally appropriate practices for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples. It works to promote the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT. The program employs Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander workers and aims to influence government policies and services, improving engagement with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities. By doing so, the program enhances service quality and access to better meet the needs of these communities.

About the role

The Head of Gulanga Program is responsible for building the capacity of organisations to deliver culturally appropriate services to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples. This role requires a strong interest in social justice and offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the future of local Aboriginal communities. The position involves a diverse and engaging workload, with the chance to collaborate with a small team and connect with people from various backgrounds. ACTCOSS fosters a supportive, flexible work environment with control over working hours and other benefits. While filling the position full time is preferred, ACTCOSS will consider applications from those seeking part time positions.

For a full list of responsibilities for the above roles, please contact Pipeline Talent via [email protected].

About you

You will be an experienced professional with a strong background in the community sector or government, capable of leading initiatives that support better outcomes for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples. You will have a proven ability to design and deliver programs that provide support, advice, and training to community organisations, ensuring culturally appropriate services. Your leadership will extend to mentoring Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander employees in the sector and engaging with government agencies to shape service delivery. Your values will align with empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, advocating for systemic change, and fostering a culturally safe environment. Experience with an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) is highly desirable.

Key Selection Criteria

• Strong leadership skills
• Experience and skills in one or more of the following: program design and management, service provision, community engagement, learning and development, or community development, with a focus on improving outcomes for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to develop partnership and stakeholder relationships relevant to the community sector and to work co-operatively with a diverse range of people, helping them reach consensus
• Ability to generate new ideas, solve problems and work autonomously on an agreed agenda within agreed timelines and budget
• Ability to work in a changing work environment while maintaining focus and attention to detail.

Key Requirements

• Qualifications in (or studying towards) relevant area such as community development, social policy, organisational development or advocacy; including social work, social science, law, education, or communications; Highly desirable.
• The successful applicant must be able to pass a National Police Check.
• WWVP Check will also be required.

What we can offer you

• Above award salary – paid at 1.2% above the award rate
• 15 days paid personal leave
• 14 weeks paid parental leave (after 12 months employment)
• 3 days paid special leave for volunteering, community/cultural events (at CEO discretion)
• Up to 5 hours per week paid study leave (at CEO discretion)
• Paid Christmas shutdown period
• ACT Portable Long Service Leave scheme
• Flexible work environment
• Free on-site parking
• Employee assistance program

How to apply

All applications must be made in writing and include the following:

• Up to date CV
• Cover letter (maximum 3 pages) addressing the six (6) selection criteria above, outlining why you have applied for the position and how you meet the requirements of the position.

Applications are to be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website by clicking the "Apply Now" button.

Unfortunately, late submissions will not be accepted.

How to get more information

For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.

Nikieta Riley

Senior Recruitment Consultant

[email protected] / [email protected] using the subject line: Head of Gulanga Program enquiry via EthicalJobs

M 0417 290 711 / PH 02 8001 6603