Shape the future of DFV services. Drive advocacy. Influence policy.

As an Executive Director with Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) you will be pivotal in driving meaningful change, strengthening services, and advocating for the most vulnerable members of our community.

In this position, you lead systemic reform, advocating for policy changes and improved DFV responses across policing, justice, corrections, and community sectors. You will contribute to the strategic direction of DVCS, with a commitment to ensuring services remain client-centred, effective, and responsive. Internally you will drive a culture of continuous improvement, to further ensure frontline teams are equipped to deliver best-practice services.

As a key point of contact for stakeholders and representative of DVCS as a subject matter expert, you will engage with multiple key stakeholders across government, the corrections systems, policing, and legal stakeholders.

Your expertise, resilience, and emotional intelligence will enable you to navigate complex, high-risk situations involving clients experiencing violence, while also managing the challenges posed by government systems that can impact their safety and support.

You are a bold and compassionate leader and your experience in DFV, justice, social services, or adjacent sectors mean your ability to influence senior government and legal leaders. A strong understanding of legislative frameworks (Crimes Act, Family Law Court, Supreme Court) and a strategic mindset means you can drive reform, lead advocacy, and oversee complex service delivery.

DVCS envision a world free from violence and abuse, providing crisis intervention, long-term support, and advocacy to break the cycle of domestic and family violence. With a 35-year history of serving the Canberra community, DVCS are evolving to create a more integrated, effective, and forward-thinking service model.

If you’re ready to lead one of the most critical DFV services in the ACT and make a tangible difference in people’s lives, we’d love to hear from you.

Please note; as part of your leadership responsibilities, you will participate in an on-call management roster, providing guidance and decision-making support during critical situations, including outside of business hours and on weekends.

For a confidential discussion, contact Jo Shapley on 0400 388 990. Please apply via the "Apply Now" button, Include your resume and cover letter.

*Due to the urgency of this hire, there is no official closing date. We will process applications as they come in, so please apply or contact us now to avoid missing out.