ABOUT YOUR ORGANISATION

Voices for Forrest (VfF) is a community group based in the southwest of WA, within the Federal electorate of Forrest. Our mission is to strengthen democracy locally and nationally. We are running a broad community consultation process through facilitated discussions such as Kitchen Table Conversations, public events, and a community-wide survey. Our aim is to hear as many voices as possible and understand the priorities of Forrest residents. As an organization, we are a core team of 4 people with around 30 active volunteers. We currently have around 2 fte working full time.

We are working to select and support a community independent candidate to run at the next Federal election.

Watch our 3-minute intro video here!

The Forrest electorate includes seven Local Governments Areas (LGA’s): Bunbury, Harvey, Busselton, Capel, Augusta-Margaret River, Dardanup and Waroona.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Why the role exists: we are building a movement from the ground up. So far, we've had an overwhelmingly positive response from Forrest residents. Many people feel disempowered and cynical about politics, and welcome the idea of an independent representative.

As a group of volunteers, we've had a very steep learning curve and have mastered many skills. However, at this point the help of an experienced organizer would make a world of difference.

What it involves: The role of the organiser is to is to build awareness of, and participation in, our movement, with a focus on 'on the ground' work. Key responsibilities include:

1. organize a large town hall event in the Bunbury area

2. organize smaller event in each other LGA

3. work with the local volunteers in each LGA to build hubs

It is really important that you are a person who loves to work in sprints, and who doesn't mind to 'hit the ground running'. We are trying to get a lot done in a really short space of time: within 6 to 7 weeks. Work hours are totally flexible between 15 and 40 hours pw, and likely to require some after hours and weekend work.

Because of the nature of the job, it is essential that you are self-driven and self-organizing. However, you will get plenty of support. We are here to help and you will be a very welcome part of our team. Our skills include: communications, database & IT, campaigning, social media.

Remuneration is $70ph based on timesheets submitted and paid weekly. Use of your own transport is to be expected.

Selection criteria

• Strong outreach and interpersonal skills
• self-motivated with a proven track record of excelling in small team settings with minimal supervision
• Proven experience in event planning and coordination, preferably in a community or nonprofit setting
• Experience in the principles of community organising and the managing of volunteers
• Start immediately and work with gusto.

How this will help: waking up democracy is incredibly hard work, but also incredibly fulfilling. We are all inspired by the work done by all the community independent MPs, and we want that too for our electorate! We imagine a representative who can vote with her or his conscience, every time. This is the work for future generations.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

Flexible work, from home, and including access to training by the Community Independents Project and other support organizations.