Here at the Department of Human Services (DHS), we strive to deliver modern programs, services and policy that strengthen communities and enable South Australians to actively participate in community life. With people at the heart of what we do and a commitment to child safety, ageing well and supporting people with disability, we work to increase inclusion, independence and decision-making, and help our communities when it matters most.

Our Disability Policy and Reform team is responsible for leading the state and national disability inclusion agenda, which includes development, implementation and oversight of legislation and strategic policy in relation to disability. The team also leads the State Autism Strategy and coordinates the state's response to the NDIS Review and the Disability Royal Commission.

We are looking for an experienced social policy or coordination lead to support implementation of South Australia's response to the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, alongside other associated intergovernmental relations functions.

Working alongside the Manager Disability Policy and Projects, in partnership with South Australian agencies and DHS Directorates, the Principal Policy Officer will:

lead coordination and reporting on South Australian initiatives delivered as part of national disability reform priorities

contribute to and influence safeguarding reform, working closely with operational and policy leads from across Government

deliver policy analysis and assess the impact of policy delivery to develop advice for DHS Executives and the Minister as part of their participation in national disability reform committees and forums, and where appropriate represent South Australia in national forums and working groups.

About you

We are looking for a candidate with experience in coordination, reporting, and/or intergovernmental relations, who is interested in applying these skills to deliver a range of complex and high-impact policy projects. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong understanding government processes and social/disability policy and will possess the ability to work independently to monitor and report on the delivery of work across Government, assess for risks and implications to South Australian Government functions and stakeholders, and influence the delivery of projects to support outcomes for South Australia.

About the team

The Disability, Policy and Reform Directorate leads South Australia's disability inclusion and reform initiatives, including supporting South Australia's functions as co-steward of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

This role is situated within the Disability Policy and Projects Business Unit, who work in collaboration with the broader Directorate, Department and South Australian Government agencies to both influence and deliver a range of National disability reform functions and initiatives, such as the Disability Royal Commission, National Disability Data Asset and Safeguarding reform.

Special Conditions:

National Police Check required
Some out of hours work may be required
Some interstate and intrastate travel may be required
Role Status: Term up to 14/09/2026.

Additional Information:

You are required to submit a cover letter, up to a maximum of 2 pages, addressing how your skills, experience and capabilities align with the role description. You are also required to provide three work referees, one of whom must be your recent line manager, and attach your current resume via the online application form. For further information and how to apply for this role please visit our DHS website www.dhs.sa.gov.au/careers

Enquiries to: Ella Broadbent, 0431 588 096, [email protected]