Job description
In line with special measure provisions in Section 12 of the Victorian Equal Opportunity Act (2010), the ADC considers that being Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander is a genuine occupational requirement for this position. Therefore, this position is only open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants in accordance with relevant Commonwealth, State and Territory legislation.
Who is the Australian Dental Council?
At the Australian Dental Council (ADC), we deliver the accreditation functions for dental professions, ensuring dental practitioners across Australia meet the high standards required to practise safely and effectively. This includes the accreditation of dental practitioner programs and the assessment of the professionalism knowledge, judgement, and clinical skills of overseas-trained dental practitioners.
We pride ourselves on achieving best practice standards in accreditation and assessment while maintaining a culture of support and inclusion. Our commitment to diversity and cultural safety is a cornerstone of our work environment. We actively seek to create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within our organisation.
Benefits of working with us
- Flexible public holidays
- First Nations cultural and ceremonial leave
- Access to a First Nations helpline through EAP Converge International.
- Professional development opportunities tailored to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff
- Additional leave benefits including end of year office closure leave, birthday leave and wellbeing leave
About the role
The Senior Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy Officer holds a pivotal position within the ADC, responsible for supporting a range of research, quality improvement and policy development projects to ensure dental practitioners meet the high standards required of dental professionals in Australia.
Reporting to the Manager, Policy and Projects, this identified role will collaborate with stakeholders across the ADC to enhance the cultural safety of the ADC’s processes. Additionally, the role will support the ongoing development, coordination and implementation of the ADC’s policy projects and assist with direct research and analyses to develop policy and strategic matters for the ADC.
Key responsibilities
- Lead initiatives to improve cultural safety and inclusivity within the ADC.
- Engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and stakeholders to inform policy development.
- Conduct research and analyses to support policy and strategic projects.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure policies reflect the needs and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Desired Skills and Experience
- A tertiary qualification in public policy, public health, project management, or a related field.
- Experience in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander stakeholder engagement and management.
- Experience working with a high-performing team with an ability to work with minimal direction.
- Well-developed written and oral communication skills, with demonstrated experience in writing policy or position statements and reports.
- Strong planning and organisational/project management skills.
- Demonstrated proficiency in managing competing priorities and timelines.
- Proven skills in supporting complex and/or high-profile projects with multiple stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant software applications (e.g., SharePoint, Monday.com).
- Familiarity with program accreditation and an awareness of issues relating to the accreditation of health professional education programs is desirable but not essential.
- Experience in the dental sector is desirable but not essential.