ABOUT YOUR ORGANISATION

The Victorian Aboriginal Children and Young Peoples Alliance (VACYPA) is the peak body for Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) dedicated to improving outcomes for Aboriginal children, young people, and their families. We work to influence policy, elevate the voices of Aboriginal children and young people, and ensure Aboriginal community-led approaches are central to decision-making.

VACYPA advocates for systemic change that reflects the strength, rights, and resilience of Aboriginal communities, upholding principles of self-determination, cultural safety, and Aboriginal-led solutions.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As the Research Officer you will build the Aboriginal knowledge and evidence-base for child and family services by capturing Aboriginal ways of knowing, being and doing. The position will conduct research, data analysis, and evaluation activities that inform VACYPA's policy development and advocacy work. Working collaboratively with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and government partners, the role involves designing and conducting research projects, analysing qualitative and quantitative data, and developing monitoring and evaluation frameworks ensuring culturally responsive research methodologies and Indigenous data sovereignty principles are upheld.

The position supports the implementation of the Wungurilwil Gapgapduir: Aboriginal Children and Families Agreement. This full-time role reports to the Manager - Policy and requires a deep understanding of Aboriginal child and family services, self-determination, and the impacts of colonisation on Aboriginal communities.

ABOUT YOU

You are passionate about improving outcomes for Aboriginal children, young people, and families through evidence-based research and advocacy. With proven experience in culturally responsive research methodologies, you bring strong analytical and critical thinking skills to complex issues.

You're committed to Aboriginal self-determination and have demonstrated experience working collaboratively and respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and cross-culturally.

You understand ethical research practices with Aboriginal communities, and the principles of Indigenous data sovereignty and Cultural and Intellectual Property rights. Your excellent written communication skills allow you to translate complex research findings into clear, accessible formats for diverse audiences.

You're a relationship builder who works collaboratively with stakeholders, and you're excited about contributing to systemic change that reflects the strength, rights, and resilience of Aboriginal communities. Experience with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, tertiary qualifications in relevant fields, and knowledge of child and family services in Victoria would be highly valued.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

We offer salary packaging, flexible work arrangements, including work from home and opportunities for professional development. We are a small, dedicated team who live and work across regional Victoria. We work directly with Aboriginal organisations to make a difference in their communities.