About the role:

The Policy & Advocacy Adviser of NATSILS provides high quality policy, advocacy and secretariat support services to the Executive Officer, Co-chairs of NATSILS and to the NATSILS members.

The Policy & Advocacy Adviser:

• Exercises discerning skills to research and develop solutions to complex legal services issues informed by an Australia-wide approach to building strong communication across the ATSILS and the broader legal services sector.
• Provides direct strategic advice and analysis services to internal and external stakeholders regarding justice system structural change and reform.
• Develops and implements strategies for policy, campaigns and advocacy to achieve change on priorities and solutions to end to injustices, racism and over-incarceration in the justice system, including being a spokesperson where appropriate.
• Works closely with the Executive Officer and Chairpersons of NATSILS to ensure NATSILS strategic priorities are designed, achieved and evaluated.
• Coordinates communications, feedback and discussions of state and national issues between ATSILS members and the Commonwealth Government Departments and Federal Parliamentarians.
• Drafts submissions in response to commissions of inquiry, reviews and new policy initiatives issued by governments and parliaments.
• Drafts content for external communications including for key stakeholders.
• Co-ordinates NATSILS forums, including liaising with members, co-chairs and external third parties attending forums, drafting forum reports and actioning resolutions.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Knowledge: knowledge and in-depth understanding of the social, justice and legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia
• Values: an alignment to the values and vision of NATSILS through a demonstrated appreciation of and sensitivity to the challenges our clients have faced and continue to face in their right for justice and equity
• Cultural capability: understanding of the histories, cultures, languages, traditions of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples; ability to work effectively and respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations, communities; and ongoing commitment to developing own cultural competence in a two-way process.
• Experience: demonstrated experience working in a policy, campaigning and/or advocacy role at a local, State and/or National level and excellent strategic, research and analytical skills with an ability to draft and analyse legal policy documents, develop advocacy strategies for social change and communicate complex legal policies in plain language.
• Project management: demonstrated experience in project management, including experience working in the area of legal assistance, research, communications or campaigning.
• Flexibility: preparedness to work irregular hours and a willingness to travel and present research, findings, project plans and other key materials to forums, media, informal groups and partners.
• Relationships: proven expertise building relationships, driving partnerships and networking between varied stakeholders and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

to apply

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