Director, Policy

• Full-Time, 9-Month Parental Leave Contract.
• Salary: $100,000 – 110,000 + Super + NFP Salary Packaging.

About Suicide Prevention Australia

Suicide Prevention Australia is the national peak body for the suicide prevention sector. We count among our members the largest and many of the smallest organisations working in suicide prevention, as well as individuals including practitioners, researchers and community leaders. Members are at the heart of everything we do. We collaborate with our members, organisations, governments, businesses, researchers, practitioners, and those with lived experience to reduce suicide rates in Australia. We support our members to drive collaboration, advocate for improved policies, and educate the public on suicide prevention.

Why Join Us?

We prioritise flexibility in terms of your work hours, and your work style. Our team comprises genuinely kind individuals who share a common mission and are committed to the success of every team member.

Here are some compelling reasons to consider working with us:

• We have a meaningful impact on the community and the lives of our members, as well as those supported by our members.
• Take advantage of tax-free Not-For-Profit Salary Packaging.
• Our full-time employees work 35 hours per week, which can be broken down into 7 hours per day.
• We follow a hybrid work model with 2 days in the office and Fridays designated as work-from-home days.

The Role

As the Director of Policy, you will play a pivotal role in leading SPA’s policy development and advocacy agenda. Reporting to the Executive Director of Sector Advocacy, this role is responsible for driving thought leadership, conducting research, and developing evidence-based policies that influence decision-making at the highest levels. You will manage a small, dedicated team of two policy professionals, ensuring alignment with SPA’s strategic goals and operational plans.

Key Responsibilities

Policy and Advocacy

• Develop and implement a robust suicide prevention policy and advocacy agenda.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, members, and key partners to shape SPA’s thought leadership in suicide prevention.
• Conduct environmental scans, research, and analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities.
• Deliver high-quality reports, submissions, and other policy outputs to drive SPA’s advocacy goals.

Government Relations

• Work closely with the Director of Government Relations to engage and influence key government stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with relevant government contacts to advance SPA’s policy positions.
• Support SPA members in engaging with government representatives.

Managing the Policy Team

• Lead and manage a team of two policy professionals, providing guidance and oversight.
• Promote a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Support the professional development of team members.

Strategic Planning and Operations

• Contribute to the development and monitoring of SPA’s strategic and operational plans.
• Ensure all policy initiatives align with SPA’s vision and annual operating plan targets.

Stakeholder and Member Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with SPA member organisations and external partners.
• Represent SPA at key meetings, forums, and committees, ensuring alignment with member priorities.

Funding and Other Duties

• Identify and secure funding partnerships to support policy initiatives.
• Contribute to the broader organisational goals, including team collaboration and project support.

About You

You are a strategic thinker and a skilled communicator, passionate about making a meaningful impact in the suicide prevention or mental health sector. With strong policy development experience and an ability to engage diverse stakeholders, you thrive in dynamic environments and are committed to driving change.

Qualifications & Experience

Qualifications: A degree in a relevant discipline is essential.

Experience:

• Proven expertise in policy development, advocacy, and strategic planning.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with government, not-for-profits, and other stakeholders.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with experience in writing high-quality reports and submissions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team.
• Ability to manage complex projects and deliver under tight deadlines.

Skills and Attributes:

• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills.
• Strong administrative and time management capabilities.
• Passion for working in a values-driven organisation dedicated to suicide prevention.

How to Apply

Submit your resume and cover letter addressing the key responsibilities and qualifications to admin@suicidepreventionaust.org.

Suicide Prevention Australia is committed to diversity and inclusivity. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, people living with disabilities, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+.