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, Evaluation and Reform team brings together expertise to deliver improvements and policies so DHS can provide the best possible services and programs for the South Australian community. They provide technical leadership in evaluation, project and change management and have responsibility for the state's inclusion agenda including, but not limited to, young people, carers, volunteers and LGBTIQA+

The Principal Policy and Project Officer will work alongside the Manager, Strategic Policy, and broader team to coordinate and drive evidence-based research and policy projects to support state and national disability reform objectives. In this role you will have the opportunity to coordinate and develop stakeholder relationships with Directorates within the Department of Human Services, South Australian Government agencies, community organisations and research institutes to facilitate existing, or new, evidence-based research and policy projects.

You will also lead the development of designated national disability policy projects to support improved outcomes for South Australians with a disability.

About you

We are looking for someone motivated to contribute to critical national disability policy reform initiatives.

You will be familiar with research methods and comfortable conducting qualitative or quantitative analysis.

Master by Research or a PhD in social policy (or a related area) will be highly regarded, although not essential if you can demonstrate strong experience leading research initiatives.

You will have a demonstrated ability to conduct robust policy analysis and provide sound recommendations.

You will be a flexible team player, keen to contribute creative ideas to projects with a demonstrated ability to communicate well in writing and verbally.

Familiarity with national disability policy would be welcome, but not essential as long as the motivation to develop the expertise is there.

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 within the Strategic Policy Business Unit who currently coordinate governance activities associated with the Disability Reform Ministerial Council: a forum for Commonwealth and state and territory ministers responsible for disability policy to drive national reform.

The Business Unit works collaboratively with the broader Directorate, South Australian Government agencies, state and territory counterparts, and Commonwealth Government agencies to contribute to NDIS policy and legislative reform and to support disability research and evidence activities.

You will be joining an enthusiastic team committed to progressing meaningful national disability reform to positively impact South Australians with a disability.

Special Conditions:

To apply you must have, and be able to provide proof of the following:

National Police Check required.

Some out of hours work may be required.

Some interstate and intrastate travel may be required.

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: Dr Steph Slack, Manager Strategic Policy [email protected]