At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy development and manage projects to support Aboriginal communities.
- Company: Join VACCA, the largest Aboriginal Community-Controlled organisation in Australia.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, professional development, and access to wellness programs.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in Aboriginal affairs and advocate for vulnerable communities.
- Qualifications: Degree in Social or Public Policy with experience in policy management.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for career growth and connection to culture.
Overview
- Position: Full time, Ongoing Opportunity
- Location: Preston
- Salary: 129,205.44 - 134,295.20, plus super and salary packaging is available
About the Organisation
The Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency (VACCA) is an Aboriginal Community-Controlled organisation that supports and advocates for the Aboriginal Community and is the largest organisation of its kind in Australia. The VACCA team is committed to the organisation’s visions and values, passionately providing support, service and advocacy for our children and other vulnerable members of the community. Our strength lies with our people.
About the role
Supporting the Director, the Senior Policy Manager is responsible for policy briefs, presentations, speeches, media releases and research papers, at times including coordinating projects. In addition, the Senior Policy Manager will prepare and/or assist in the preparation of policy papers and briefs for the Director to provide to the Board, the CEO and the senior leadership group of VACCA. Supervision and management of staff is a feature of this role.
About You
- Awareness and appreciation of Aboriginal societies and cultures and an understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal people in contemporary Australia and the diversity of circumstances of Aboriginal people both in the Victorian community and Nationally
- Strong understanding and knowledge of government and policy, specifically at the Victorian State level
- Strong communication skills including producing high quality accurate papers, briefs and presentations and communicating complex ideas simply in person or in documents
- Proven ability to supervise, manage and support direct reports as well as provide guidance, direction and mentoring to others in the team
- Skills and experience planning and managing multiple concurrent projects including associated budgets
Requirements
- Minimum degree qualified Social or Public policy or related field along with considerable experience in policy and/or research
- Experience in a senior policy or management role in the government or non-government sector, preferably in Aboriginal affairs
- Valid Police Check, a Working with Children’s Check for a paid employee (or willingness to obtain) and a Victorian Driver Licence. Current COVID-19 vaccination (Strongly Recommended)
What we can offer you
- A supportive environment that includes comprehensive induction
- The support of regular internal supervision
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Attractive salary packaging to increase your take-home pay
- 17.5% loading on annual leave
- Access to agency vehicles for all work-related travel
- Access to Employee support and wellbeing programs
- Paid parental leave after 12 months of ongoing employment
- Opportunity to work and build connection with the Aboriginal Community and culture
- Fitness Passport - allowing you (and your family) access to any of the facilities available on this program
We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders people to apply. Applications should include a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria and current resume. We encourage applicants to view the Position Description prior to applying. Please refer to the Position Description for this role. The file name is Senior-Manager-Social-Policy---OCEO.pdf. Application closes by February 15, 2026.
We are committed to Aboriginal self-determination and supporting strong, safe, thriving Aboriginal communities and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity, honouring all cultural backgrounds, abilities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities and spiritual beliefs.
VACCA is a child-safe organisation and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and young people with zero tolerance for child abuse. All successful applicants will be required to undertake a National Police Record Check and Working with Children Check prior to commencement of employment and periodically following commencement.
VACCA is an equal opportunity employer and has a smoke-free workplace policy.
Senior Manager, Policy & Redress in Preston employer: Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency
Contact Detail:
Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manager, Policy & Redress in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to VACCA or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research VACCA’s mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a mate to do a mock interview with you. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and boost your confidence when it’s time to shine in front of the real interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows you’re keen and keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Manager, Policy & Redress in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to address the key selection criteria directly and showcase how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see your passion for Aboriginal affairs and how you can contribute to our mission.
Tailor Your Resume: Don’t just send a generic resume! Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience in policy management and your understanding of Aboriginal cultures. We’re looking for specifics that show us why you’re the perfect fit for this position.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication skills are crucial for this role, make sure your application materials reflect that. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well. We want to see how you can communicate complex ideas simply!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal communities and the policies that impact them. Brush up on current events and relevant legislation in Victoria, as this will show your commitment and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas simply. Bring examples of high-quality papers or presentations you've created in the past. This will help you illustrate your skills and give the interviewers confidence in your capabilities.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience in supervising and mentoring staff. Share specific examples of how you've supported your team and managed projects, as this role requires strong leadership skills.
✨Connect with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with VACCA's vision and values. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding Aboriginal self-determination and community support. This connection can set you apart from other candidates.