Overview

Working collaboratively across the organisation, the Policy and Research Officer plays a key role in supporting the Senior Policy, Research & Advocacy officer to initiate high quality research and to assist with preparing policy submissions & initiatives. This is done in the context of developing and promoting VALS as a strong voice for the Aboriginal communities we serve.

Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility

Strategy and Planning

Support the Senior Policy, Research and Advocacy Officer to:

• Develop VALS policy, research and advocacy agenda in line with the strategic and operational plan and work with relevant colleagues across the organisation to achieve our strategic objectives
• Measure impact and review progress with advocacy strategies and plans and ensure ongoing development of these in response to changes in the external environment
• Identify and respond to emerging opportunities to influence law and policy

Policy and Research

• Research, write and prepare position papers, reports and submissions as relevant, which will contribute to implementation of VALS Policy, Research and Advocacy strategy
• Provide support and advice to the CEO and other members of the Executive to fulfil their role in representing VALS at conferences, working groups and other governance forums
• Support the Senior Policy, Research and Advocacy Officer to represent VALS on relevant working groups and forums as required
• Work closely with the Senior Policy, Research and Advocacy Officer and the Communications Officer to achieve VALS policy, research and advocacy priorities through public advocacy
• Assist the Senior Policy, Research & Advocacy Officer to translate the concerns of clients and the Aboriginal communities into specific campaigns, policy and advocacy materials
• Provide support to develop and implement research projects being run by VALS

Stakeholder Management

• Support the Senior Policy, Research and Advocacy Officer to develop and maintain strong working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including ACCOs, NATSILS and ATSILS, research institutions, government and community legal organisations
• Work with the Senior Policy, Research and Advocacy Officer to build the organisation’s profile through the establishment and maintenance of research partnerships with external organisations and the broader community