Life at Vinnies

At Vinnies, we are what we do. We believe in making a difference. We are one of Queensland’s most-loved charitable organisations and are committed to leading with our values and mission at heart. We work together to build a legacy that we can be proud of, supporting those in need within our communities. Our companions are why our journey started, striving to shape a more just and compassionate society. Our employees, members and volunteers are the reason our journey continues, and why we will succeed.

What we can offer you

• Work with a purpose – not your average organisation and not your average role!
• Competitive hourly rate and excellent employment benefits under our Employee Agreement
• Salary packaging arrangements – helping you save on tax
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program – our employees are our most valuable asset
• A welcoming and inclusive environment where you’ll always feel part of a team

The Role

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for social justice and driving meaningful change? St Vincent de Paul Society QLD is seeking an experienced Advocacy and Government Relations Lead to champion our mission, influence policy, and elevate the voices of the communities we serve.

In this pivotal role, you will lead the development and delivery of advocacy strategies, manage key government and sector relationships, and ensure our advocacy priorities align with our organisational mission and strategic plan. Working closely with the Social Justice Committee and stakeholders across the organisation, you will shape impactful advocacy initiatives that create real and lasting change.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead advocacy and government relations priorities across project and operational plans, ensuring initiatives are accurate, effective and aligned with organisational strategy.
• Collaborate with the Social Justice Committee and internal stakeholders to develop an advocacy action plan that reflects national and state strategic priorities.
• Design and implement a comprehensive action plan that engages SVDP QLD members and integrates grassroots issues into broader strategic advocacy priorities.
• Develop and strengthen sector relationships with peak bodies, advocacy agencies and aligned organisations.
• Use SVDP’s research to create high quality advocacy materials for internal and external audiences.

This is a Permanent, Full-time (38 hours per week) based in our State Administration Office in South Brisbane.

To be successful in the role, you will meet the following criteria:

• Relevant Tertiary Qualifications in Social Research and Policy, Community Development, Health or Public Policy, or related field. Postgraduate qualifications are highly desirable.
• Minimum 7+ years in a similar role leading effective engagement and advocacy activities particularly with all levels of government and/or in the not-for-profit sector
• Advanced research and advocacy skills.
• Strong networking and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience working within public service and/or the not-for-profit sector is highly desirable
• The ability to work within tight deadlines, independently and with minimal supervision.
• Understanding of and commitment to the philosophy of the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland and an ability to work in accordance with policies and procedures to promote the values and mission of the Society.

Ready to apply? We can’t wait to hear from you.

You can submit your cover letter and resume via EthicalJobs or directly on our careers page!

Having the right people in our team is important to us. Before joining our team, we’ll undertake pre-employment checks including references, a police check, and proof of qualifications.

We are committed to meaningful equity and diversity in our workforce. Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged. To be eligible for this position you must have an appropriate visa to work in Australia/New Zealand.