Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) is the Catholic Church’s peak national body for social services, representing around 40 member organisations who support over a million Australians annually in metropolitan, regional and remote communities.

As Director Policy and Advocacy, you’ll lead policy development and advocacy activities at CSSA. Working closely with our Executive Director and member organisations, you’ll drive evidence-based policy positions that align with Catholic Social Teaching and promote the interests of vulnerable Australians.

This permanent full-time role is based in Canberra, and offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference to social policy in Australia.

What you’ll do

Lead the development and delivery of evidence-based policy positions on issues affecting the social services sector

Design and implement effective advocacy strategies to influence government decision-makers

Monitor policy developments and provide guidance on government funding mechanisms for member organisations

Prepare high-quality submissions to parliamentary inquiries and government consultations

Coordinate research initiatives that strengthen CSSA’s policy positions

Build strategic partnerships with other peak bodies to achieve shared policy objectives

Support CSSA member organisations in their advocacy efforts

Provide expert advice on navigating complex regulatory environments

Represent CSSA in key forums and policy discussions

Work with the Executive Director to position CSSA as a leading voice in social policy

What we’re looking for

Proven success in policy development and advocacy roles, with demonstrated ability to influence policy outcomes

Strong understanding of government funding mechanisms and the regulatory environment for social service providers

Experience working with or within the Department of Social Services, Attorney General’s Department, or one of the central federal departments

Knowledge of the parliamentary process and government decision-making

Excellent analytical, writing and communication skills

Ability to translate complex policy issues into clear, persuasive arguments

Tertiary qualifications in public policy, social sciences, political science or related field

Understanding of, or capacity to understand and work within a Catholic organisation guided by Catholic Social Teaching

Self-starter with sound judgement and flexibility

Challenges of the role

Navigating complex and rapidly changing policy environments

Advocating effectively in a politically diverse landscape

Balancing long-term policy objectives with responding to immediate issues

Building consensus among diverse member organisations

Achieving outcomes with limited support in a small team

What we offer

Opportunity to influence national social policy and improve outcomes for vulnerable Australians

Collaborative and mission-driven workplace

Generous salary packaging benefits available, allowing you to increase your take-home pay through our PBI status

Flexible work arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Supportive team environment

CSSA is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

If you have experience in understanding government funding frameworks, navigating regulatory environments, and a passion for social justice, we want to hear from you.