Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Strategic Projects Advisor (Truth Telling)

Job Posting Organization:
Save the Children Australia (SCA) is a prominent organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and families, particularly those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The organization is committed to advocating for children's rights and ensuring their well-being. Established with a mission to create a better future for children, SCA operates across various regions in Australia, focusing on culturally informed practices and reconciliation efforts. The organization employs a diverse workforce and engages with numerous stakeholders to fulfill its mission, emphasizing the importance of cultural safety and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Job Overview:
The Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Strategic Projects Advisor (Truth Telling) position is a pivotal role within Save the Children Australia, aimed at enhancing the organization's engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This part-time, permanent role is designed for individuals who are passionate about advocating for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families. The advisor will play a crucial role in guiding the organization through its Truth Telling initiatives, which are part of the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan. The position involves collaborating with various internal groups, including the Reconciliation Leadership Group and First Nations Advisory Committee, to develop a practical framework for culturally safe practices. The advisor will be responsible for fostering a culture of listening and accountability within the organization, ensuring that the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are heard and respected. This role is not just about policy implementation; it is about making a tangible difference in the lives of children and families by addressing historical injustices and promoting recognition and justice.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Strategic Projects Advisor include:

• Providing expert advice to operational leaders on engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and implementing culturally safe practices.
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders to develop and implement the Truth Telling framework, ensuring alignment with the organization's Reconciliation Action Plan.
• Facilitating workshops and training sessions to educate staff on cultural safety and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.
• Building and maintaining relationships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, Elders, and community members to ensure meaningful engagement.
• Conducting research and analysis to identify the impacts of current and historical policies on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Supporting the organization in recognizing and addressing potential harms caused by past practices.
• Promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the organization.
• Upholding child-safe practices and safeguarding children's rights in all activities.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• A deep understanding of the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families, with a commitment to advocating for these rights.
• Experience working with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and First Nations communities, demonstrating cultural competence and sensitivity.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences, including frontline staff and senior management.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and initiative, with a proven track record of coordinating activities across hybrid teams.
• A commitment to upholding child-safe practices and safeguarding children's rights in all aspects of work.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, ideally in social work, community development, Indigenous studies, or a related field. Formal qualifications in these areas will be highly regarded, as they provide a foundation for understanding the complexities of working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, particularly in roles that involve advocacy, community engagement, and policy development. Candidates should have a demonstrated history of collaborating with diverse stakeholders and navigating complex social dynamics.

Languages:
While there are no specific language requirements, proficiency in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander languages would be considered an asset. Strong English communication skills are mandatory, as the role involves extensive interaction with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is part-time, requiring 3-4 days of work per week, with flexibility in scheduling. The role is intended for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only, in line with the organization's commitment to equal opportunity measures. The successful candidate will receive a generous salary of $150,000 per annum, plus superannuation and full salary packaging benefits. Additional employee benefits include individual learning plans, extra leave for ceremonial purposes, and access to wellness programs. Save the Children Australia is dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace, ensuring that all employees feel valued and respected.