• VPSG4

Yoorrook Justice Commission is the first formal truth-telling process into injustices experienced by First Peoples in Victoria. Yoorrook is an opportunity for First Peoples to tell their whole story and an invitation for all Victorians to listen. Set up with the powers of a Royal Commission, Yoorrook will promote truth, understanding and transformation in Victoria. Yoorrook has been established as an independent Royal Commission under the Inquiries Act 2014. See here the Letters Patent that set out Yoorrook’s mandate.

The Policy and Research Officer will play a vital role in supporting Yoorrook to produce the final reform report which will directly impact the First Peoples in Victoria.

This role will undertake research and policy analysis to inform decision making and contribute to projects within defined areas including land justice, health, education, housing, and economic, social and political life of First Peoples in Victoria.

You will be integral in Preparing briefings, chapter outlines and content for the final reform report based on this analysis. You will also contribute to the drafting of Yoorrook’s final reform report as well as briefs, meeting papers and summaries, minutes, briefing papers, discussion papers, and issues papers.

About You

You will have good policy and research skills, an understanding of government processes, and awareness and understanding of the history and culture of First Peoples in Victoria.

Successful candidates will demonstrate policy, research, analytical and communication skills with an ability to work cooperatively in a complex, sensitive and fast paced environment.

To succeed in this role, you will be outcomes focused, thrives on a challenge and is passionate about truth and justice for First Peoples in Victoria.

Yoorrook’s mandate requires it to complete its work by 30 June 2025. The final reform report upon which the Policy and Research Officer role is focussed must be delivered by 31 December 2024.

Ideally you will have experience working with First Peoples’ led organisations and/or communities specifically with an understanding of trauma informed approaches and cultural safety.

How to apply

Click "Apply Now". Applications close on the advertised closing date and should include:

• A resume; and
• A cover letter which addresses the key selection criteria as found in the position description (within two pages).
• Links to your portfolio or examples of previous work

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Dr Simone Gristwood on 0459 869 602.

Yoorrook is currently advertising two policy roles at the same time: Policy and Research Officer and Senior Policy Officer. If you meet the relevant selection criteria and would like to be considered for both roles, you can submit a single application which addresses the key selection criteria for the Senior Policy Officer role. If you have a preference for either role, please let us know in your application.

Other relevant information

Yoorrook’s Letters Patent requires it to prioritise the employment of First Peoples. First Peoples are strongly encouraged to apply for all roles at Yoorrook.

Diversity and inclusion drives Yoorrook’s success. Yoorrook welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, including First Peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTIQA+ and people with disability. Applicants are encouraged to discuss flexible arrangements during the recruitment process.

Preferred candidates may be required to complete a Pre-employment Declaration and Consent Form. Employment of successful candidates may be subject to a National Police Check.

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia. As an authorised provider, Yoorrook is required to comply with the State Government’s COVID-19 Vaccination policy, which strongly recommends all employees be fully vaccinated.

A position description is attached.