Interested in joining an ethics committee focussed on parenting research? Draw on your pastoral care experience to support ethical research as part of the HREC, at the Parenting Research Centre (PRC).

About the Organisation

The Parenting Research Centre (PRC) helps children thrive by driving new and better ways to support families. We work with governments and community organisations across health, education and social services to put evidence-based parenting support into action.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a Volunteer Committee Member (Pastoral Care) to join our Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). This is an opportunity to bring your lived experience, values and community perspective to the table, helping ensure research involving people is conducted ethically, respectfully and responsibly. You don’t need to be a researcher- your voice matters.

This role must be filled by someone actively engaged in pastoral care within the community, such as:

• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Elder or community leader
• Chaplain
• Minister of religion or faith leader
• Other recognised pastoral/community care role

Key Responsibilities

• Attend approximately 5 committee meetings per year (online or in Melbourne, held on second Fridays as required)
• Review low-risk research applications and amendments outside meetings (up to 5 times per year)
• Provide input into ethical review discussions
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all committee matters
• Identify and manage conflicts of interest
• Collaborate with committee members and the Chair

Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Current experience in a pastoral care or community leadership role
• Strong commitment to ethical conduct and confidentiality
• Ability to critically review written material and provide considered feedback
• Sound judgement and ability to manage conflicts of interest
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Reliable and organised, with ability to meet preparation and participation requirements

What’s in it for you?

• Make a real impact on ethical research practices
• Contribute your voice and lived experience – no research background required
• Be part of a multidisciplinary, respected committee
• Build networks across community and professional sectors
• Flexible participation (online or Melbourne-based meetings)

Role Details

• Position type: Volunteer (unpaid)
• Location: Hybrid – online or Melbourne office
• Commitment: Approx. 5 meetings per year + occasional reviews
• Tenure: Ongoing
• Pre-employment requirements:
  
  • National Police Check (prior to commencement and every 3 years)
  • Signed Committee Member Responsibilities agreement

How to Apply

If you are passionate about community wellbeing and ethical research, we encourage you to apply. We’d love to hear from you!

To submit your application, please click 'Apply Now' by the closing date.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

The Parenting Research Centre and Raising Children Network is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Workplace adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process.