Share The Care! 

Carers ACT is all about caring. Caring for our Carers, our Community and our Colleagues.

Make a difference by sharing your passion. 

Carers ACT encourages all staff to make a difference in the lives of carers. Your passion for the work you do each day can make a difference in the lives of family members or friends who provide assistance with the tasks of daily living to someone who lives with a disability, a medical condition, a mental illness or is frail and aged. 

Come and work with us and be one of the voices for carers in the ACT and work with industry and government to make Canberra a more carer-friendly community. 

About the role 

Carers ACT is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Mental Health Carers Policy Officer to join their dynamic team on a full-time basis. You will be responsible for shaping policy and providing advocacy that meets the operational and strategic needs of the organisation and Peak body funded contract. This role is part of our Mental Health Carers Voice (MHCV) sub-team and is focused on providing policy and advocacy services, ensuring carer’s voices are heard, while role modelling the leadership behaviours that create a high performing, engaged culture.  

In this role, you will work closely with your policy and advocacy team members as well as the executive team and external stakeholders. 

Your duties will include: 

• Gathering evidence from internal and external sources to develop evidence-based policy positions that have been informed by the voice of mental health carers and support systemic change in line with the programs strategic priorities   
• Providing input into external policy positions that is evidence based, carer informed and in line with the programs strategic plan and the vision of Carers ACT   
• Monitoring national and international legislation, regulation, leading practice, industry issues and provides relevant information to the Executive Team and Board   
• Representing mental health carers voices on policy and service issues across Government, organisations and programs    
• Overseeing and conducting research to inform and influence thinking on the needs and preferences of Mental Health Carers   
• Building reach and sphere of influence across the mental health and related sectors   
• Building awareness of carers and their needs in service systems to ensure stronger recognition and inclusion   
• Driving delivery of the MHCV Strategic Plan.   
• Contributing to the draft of the annual MHCV workplan incorporating the MHCV Strategic Plan and contractual requirements in consultation with the team.   
• Contributing to communications and engagement activities including newsletters, presentations and management of the MHCV APAG, our advisory group of lived experience mental health carers. 

About You: 

Essential 

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Psychology, Mental health, Health Sciences, Public policy etc.)  
• Proven experience in policy development and analysis or advocacy. 
• Strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. 
• Detail-orientated with strong organisational and time management skills. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite software. 
• WWVP with NDIS Check (or willing to obtain) 
• Driver’s licence  

Desirable 

• Mental health training (Mental health first aid, Applied suicide intervention skills training (ASIST), or Accidental Counsellor) 
• Previous experience working in a clinical environment within the mental health sector will be highly regarded. 

Benefits

At Carers ACT, we take pride in fostering an inclusive environment and promoting a strong work-life balance. As a valued member of our team, you can expect the following benefits:  

• Care-Friendly Environment: We prioritise creating a care-friendly organisation where every employee feels supported and included.  
• Competitive Remuneration: We offer competitive salaries within the sector, recognising and valuing your skills and contributions.  
• Salary Packaging: Take advantage of our NFP salary packaging options to maximise your take-home pay, providing you with additional financial benefits.  
• Commitment to Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and offer various opportunities for learning and development. From formal training programs to informal mentoring, we support your continuous development.  
• Free Parking: Enjoy the convenience of free parking, making your work commute hassle-free and cost-effective.  
• We offer stability and security with a full-time, ongoing position, allowing you to make a long-term impact and contribute to our organisation's success.  You will join our team at our head office located in Holt. 

Next Steps

If you would like to be considered for this role, please click "Apply Now" by the closing date.

We will interview as we receive applications, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.  

Carers ACT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We are proud of our team, representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. 

A position description is attached.