Applications close 8 September
The Systems Advocate is responsible for advancing systemic change to uphold the rights of people with disability, under the direction of the Principal Advocate and Systems Coordinator. The role focuses on researching, analysing and evaluating systems to identify areas for reform, and developing evidence-based advocacy to influence policy and practice.
Working in collaboration with the Queensland Independent Disability Advocacy Network (QIDAN) members, QAI staff and key decision-makers, the Systems Advocate contributes to submissions, reports, campaigns and advocacy initiatives that promote fairness, equity and inclusion for people with disability.
The position is full time or part time , commencing as soon as possible until 30 June 2026. The role falls under the Social, Community, Home Care & Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHDS Award) and will be paid above award rates, with duties in line with Level 5.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Keep informed of current government and community attitudes and policies and their effects on the lives of people with disability.
- Research and analyse systemic opportunities and threats, identifying areas of inequity and injustice.
- Collect, analyse and present data provided through QIDAN and QAI.
- Liaise with members of the QIDAN to collate and progress systemic issues identified and influence policy development and implementation.
- Develop policies and lobby for social, cultural, attitudinal, environmental, political and legal change that advocates for the protection and advancement of the needs, rights and lives of people with disability, in consultation with QIDAN & QAI staff.
- Write position papers, submissions, material and campaigns in relation to identified priority issues.
- Support the planning, co-ordination, implementation and administration of campaign work in line with QAI’s priorities, budget and capacity to do the work, ensuring that research and policy advocacy informs campaign messaging.
- Identify and liaise with key players including: the Office of the Public Advocate, Office of the Public Guardian, the NDIA, Queensland Human Rights Commission, Queensland and Commonwealth Ombudsman, the Disability Royal Commission and other entities.
- Bring together or join with like-minded others, including members of QIDAN, to take further action on these issues on behalf of people with disability.
- Lobby government and community to bring about positive, sustainable change to the lives of people with disability.
- Communicate complex issues and solutions to various audiences, including policymakers, media, and the public.
- Monitor achievements and provide updates and reporting to the Systems Coordinator, Principal Advocate, QAI’s Executive team and funding bodies as required.
- Participation in the network for QIDAN and assist with the facilitation of the QIDAN Community of practice.