About Us

The Summer Foundation has been at the forefront of change for people with disabilities needing 24/7 supports. Over 18 years, we’ve honed a unique approach, driving policy, innovation, and systemic reform to improve housing and living outcomes. We’re proud of our impact, from pioneering Specialist Disability Housing to influencing national accessibility standards.

Our work culture is intentional, inclusive, and growth-oriented. We thrive on collaboration, creativity, and strategic thinking, all driven by a fierce commitment to making a difference. We are among the top 10% of Australia’s most engaged organisations, and we’re continually improving how we work and grow together. Join us in building a future where everyone has the support they need to live well.

About the Role

As our External Affairs Lead, you’ll be at the forefront of shaping the conversation on inclusive housing and living options for Australians with disabilities who require 24/7 support. In this role you’ll craft and lead an ambitious public affairs strategy, reinforcing the Summer Foundation’s position as a thought leader and innovator.

You’ll be central to our advocacy efforts, lifting expectations around what a good life can look like for Australians with high support needs. Working closely with the Policy and Government Relations team, you will spearhead media engagement, public campaigns, and proactive advocacy to promote systemic reforms and raise the bar for housing and living options.

We’re looking for a strategic thinker with a knack for innovative media strategy and stakeholder relations—someone who understands the disability landscape (or similar fields like health, community, or social services) and is passionate about creating impactful public discourse.

Key Responsibilities

• External Affairs Strategy: Develop and implement impactful media strategies to position the Summer Foundation as a thought leader in disability housing and support.
• Advocacy Leadership: Lead advocacy campaigns and create compelling content that aligns with our policy agenda.
• Relationship Building: Build and nurture media and stakeholder relationships, preparing spokespeople for effective public engagement.
• Government Relations: Monitor policy developments and respond to opportunities that support our mission.
• Performance Reporting: Track and report on the effectiveness of external affairs efforts to leadership.
• Collaborative Leadership: Support team members’ growth and work across departments to achieve strategic objectives.

About you

You’re a strategic, mission-driven leader with a passion for social impact and a knack for navigating complex policy landscapes. Skilled in public affairs, media engagement, and relationship building, you bring experience in crafting powerful narratives that influence change. Your background in policy or communications, combined with a deep understanding of the disability, health, or social services sector, equips you to drive meaningful conversations that elevate expectations for disability housing and support. If you’re ready to make an impact with the Summer Foundation, we’d love to hear from you.

Essential skills and qualities include:

• Political Insight: Skilled in government or advocacy with the ability to influence and persuade.
• Impactful Communication: Creates compelling, strategically positioned narratives.
• Adaptability: Flexibly adjusts strategies to align with evolving priorities.
• Collaborative Approach: Works well with team members to achieve aligned goals.
• Strategic Vision: Sees the big picture and plans for long-term impact.

Why Join Us?

At Summer Foundation, we believe in the power of strategic action and compassionate work. You’ll be joining a team where your creativity and insights are valued, and your work makes a tangible impact on the lives of people with disabilities. If you’re ready to bring fresh ideas, challenge norms, and help shape the future, we’d love to hear from you.

Summer Foundation encourages people with lived experience of disability to apply.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are a strategic visionary who thrives in a mission-driven organisation, join us at the Summer Foundation to drive positive change for Australians with disabilities. This is more than a role; it’s a calling to create a legacy of inclusion, dignity, and innovation.

Visitwww.summerfoundation.org.au for more information and apply.

We will be shortlisting immediately so don't hesitate to apply if you think this role is a good fit for your skills.

We’re committed to growing and empowering a more inclusive community within Summer Foundation. That’s why we hire diverse teams of people from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process, please reach out to [email protected] using the subject line: External Affairs Lead enquiry via EthicalJobs or 1300 935 717.

A position description is attached.