Senior Advocacy Policy and Research Officer

• Based in Canterbury (with option for hybrid)
• Part-time 4 days (30 hours) per week
• Contracted to June 2026
• SCHADS Award Level 6.3 $54.19 per hour + super
• Wellbeing leave + generous salary packaging

Do you have a background in advocacy, criminology, or social/ political science? Want to make a positive impact for people impacted by the criminal justice system, including those related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their communities? This is the ideal opportunity for you!

As the Senior Advocacy and Policy Officer, you will use your expertise to work collaboratively with the Advocacy Research and Policy Unit (ARPU) team to undertake advocacy, policy and research translation work focussed on issues pertinent to CRC clients. You will drive CRC’s advocacy strategy towards improvements in the provision of services for people leaving prison and their families, and diversionary options for people at risk of justice system involvement, as well as broader justice system reform.

You will work collaboratively with CRC staff to contribute towards research and evaluation activities as well as research the evidence, literature base and external discourse/ commentary on topics related to CRC’s service delivery and issues related to the criminal justice system.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing position statements, advocacy materials (including submissions and letters), briefs and background papers and advice on a broad range of issues related to the criminal justice system
• Researching the evidence, literature base and external discourse/ commentary on topics related to CRC’s service delivery and issues related to the criminal justice system
• Preparing and delivering presentations and training to a broad range of stakeholders
• Developing and maintaining internal and external relationships with key stakeholders and research partners
• Supporting the ARPU Manager and performing the role of Manager in their absence
• Assisting in the preparation of funding submissions by providing advocacy, research and policy expertise
• Contributing to the development of public advocacy and policy positions and responses in a range of justice system areas.

Why work for us?

• Support programs that aim to break entrenched cycles of disadvantage, homelessness and imprisonment
• Be part of a community-based agency that has been delivering effective services in our field for over 70 years
• Join a dedicated, energetic team with a culture of trust, integrity and respect
• Be part of a flexible and supportive workplace including benefits such as Wellbeing Leave
• Access the support of cultural supervision for First Nations staff

To join us, you’ll need:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in social & political sciences, criminology, law, policy, communications, public health, or related disciplines.
• Experience in the development of policies, position statements, submissions, briefing papers and other advocacy materials.
• Knowledge and understanding of issues relating to people impacted by the criminal justice system, and the criminal justice system more broadly.
• Demonstrated advocacy and communications experience including skills in developing persuasive strategies for change, stakeholder engagement and influencing decision-makers.
• Experience in translating research and evaluation in an applied context.
• High level communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to critically think and productively engage in advocacy and research projects.
• Ability to be self-motivated and work independently when required.

How to apply:

We are committed to achieving a diverse and culturally safe workforce, and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people from CALD backgrounds for the non-Identified positions.

Do you have the skills, positivity and work ethic to match our amazing team? You will be directed to respond to the selection criteria and upload your resume. Applications close Tues 18 June. APPLY NOW!

For more information about CRC and a copy of the position description please email [email protected], using the subject line: Senior Advocacy Policy and Research Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs.