Development and Outreach Department Intern

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and promoting human rights globally. Established in 1978, HRW conducts in-depth investigations and advocacy campaigns to address human rights abuses and hold violators accountable. The organization operates in over 90 countries and employs a diverse team of more than 400 staff members, including researchers, advocates, and support personnel. HRW is committed to ensuring that human rights are respected and upheld, and it actively engages with governments, international institutions, and civil society to promote accountability and effective remedies for violations.

Job Overview:
The Development and Outreach Department Intern position at Human Rights Watch in Sydney offers a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a prominent international human rights organization. The internship is designed for part-time availability, specifically on Tuesdays and Thursdays, totaling 14 hours per week over a three-month period, starting in mid-September 2026 and running through December 202

• Interns will engage in various tasks that support the Development and Outreach Departments, contributing to the organization's mission of advocating for human rights. This role provides interns with exposure to the daily operations of HRW's Sydney office, including participation in staff meetings, online discussions with global colleagues, and attendance at external events such as donor meetings and public briefings. The internship aims to cultivate skills in outreach and development while fostering a collegial atmosphere among interns and staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a range of outreach and development-related tasks, including but not limited to: utilizing databases to assist with event planning; supporting fundraising and outreach events; collaborating with team members to engage individual donors, foundations, and corporations primarily located in Sydney and Melbourne; and undertaking additional projects that align with the intern's interests and the organization's needs. Interns will also have the opportunity to learn about the intricacies of non-profit operations and contribute to meaningful initiatives that further HRW's mission.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Development and Outreach Department Intern position should be tertiary students currently enrolled for the duration of the internship. Strong organizational skills, a proactive approach to projects, and a demonstrated reliability are essential. A keen interest in international human rights is required, along with desirable experience in fundraising, media, social media, government relations, event planning, and familiarity with Salesforce. Proficiency in computer skills, particularly Microsoft Office, is strongly preferred. Additionally, applicants must possess valid work authorization in Australia for the internship's duration.

Educational Background:
The ideal educational background for this internship includes enrollment in a tertiary institution, with a focus on fields related to international relations, human rights, non-profit management, or similar disciplines. Students should be actively pursuing their studies and able to commit to the internship schedule as outlined.

Experience:
While prior experience in non-profit organizations or related fields is not mandatory, any relevant experience in fundraising, event planning, or advocacy work will be considered an asset. The internship is particularly suited for students seeking to gain practical experience and insights into the workings of an international human rights organization.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all communications and tasks will be conducted in English. Additional language skills may be considered beneficial, particularly if they relate to the regions or communities that HRW serves, but they are not required.

Additional Notes:
This internship is part-time, with a commitment of 14 hours per week over three months. Interns will receive reimbursement for lunch and transportation expenses incurred while in the office, up to $20 per day for lunch and $15 per day for transportation. Students may also have the opportunity to arrange academic credit for their internship experience. HRW emphasizes diversity and encourages applicants from various backgrounds to apply, ensuring an inclusive environment that values different perspectives and experiences.