About the role

We are seeking motivated and experienced Senior Advisors to join our team. In this pivotal role, you will provide high-level policy and communications advice to support the delivery of the Closing the Gap reforms in South Australia. Working closely with the Principal Advisor, you will research, plan and coordinate policy responses and initiatives, advocate on behalf of SAACCON members, and engage directly with state government partners to help strengthen outcomes for Aboriginal people.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants are Strongly Encouraged.

The positions available are within the Advisory and Advocacy Services Directorate in the following divisions:

Thriving Communities

The Thriving Communities Division focus on SA Closing the Gap actions and Priority Reform areas that align to outcomes within justice and education, this includes youth justice plus early learning and child development initiatives.

Wellbeing & Safety

The Wellbeing and Safety Division work towards SA Closing the Gap outcomes relating to child protection, women and families' safety, housing and health, including preventative health.

Key Responsibilities

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

Work closely with Principal Advisors, SAACCON Advisors, and Project Support Officers on implementation of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and SA Joint Implementation Plan.

Partner with SA Government departments to guide project scoping and delivery.

Planning & Implementation

Lead the design and delivery of workplans that build strong relationships and capabilities across the sector.

Drive implementation and evaluation of annual workplans in line with strategic goals.

Lead and implement targeted work plans to build relationships and capabilities supporting the Closing the Gap agenda in SA.

Ensure timely execution and evaluation of the annual workplan and implementation strategy

Evaluation & Reporting

Monitor, evaluate, and report on the effectiveness of key initiatives and contribute to continuous improvement.

Team and Culture

Actively contribute to a collaborative, culturally safe, and inclusive team environment.

Support and promote teamwork through open communication, collaboration whilst following SAACCON’s values and integrity

Attend and participate in professional development activities including workshops and training as required.

Fulfil all Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations in accordance with the WHS Act 2012 (SA), including identifying and reporting any risks or malpractice, and adhering to directives from WHS representatives

About You

You will be a strategic thinker, skilled communicator, and passionate advocate for Aboriginal community-controlled solutions. You are confident navigating government processes, managing complex projects, and building trusted relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants are Strongly Encouraged to Apply.

Extensive experience working in the Aboriginal and/or multicultural community services sector, with a strong understanding of the policy, funding and operational environment

Demonstrated track record of providing high-level strategic advice and support to organisations, preferably in a peak body or advocacy role

Excellent research, analysis and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex information into practical recommendations

Outstanding stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills, with the ability to navigate sensitive political and cultural contexts

Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with the ability to effectively represent SAACCON and advocate on behalf of member organisations

Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field such as social policy, community development or public administration

What we offer

At SAACCON, we are committed to supporting the professional growth and wellbeing of our team. We offer a range of benefits, including:

Salary Sacrifice Opportunities

Competitive salary and superannuation

Professional Development

We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates, as well as those with experience working in diverse, multicultural environments.

About SAACCON

The South Australian Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation Network (SAACCON) is the peak representative body for South Australian Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and peak bodies. With over 25 member organisations, we are committed to supporting culturally responsive services and creating greater opportunities for Aboriginal people across the state.

We work in partnership with the Coalition of Peaks and governments to influence policy, legislation, and service delivery that advances Closing the Gap outcomes. At the heart of our work is a belief in strong, culturally safe, and accountable partnerships with government — because real change happens when Aboriginal voices are at the centre.

Apply now for this exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact to the partnership between government and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.