The Position
This role has a leadership role in progressing the policy and advocacy agenda for the profession, with a focus on driving new opportunities for the AASW’s social workers. It is responsible for shaping and driving policy direction through analysis, developing practical policy solutions, and delivering advocacy campaigns that achieve tangible outcomes.
The position oversees the development of submissions, reports, research, briefing papers and organisational policy positions, particularly across mental health schemes and service settings. It ensures policy positions are evidence-based, aligned to strategy, and effective in influencing system design.
A key responsibility is supporting advocacy to improve publicly funded schemes, including securing better working conditions, professional recognition, and fair remuneration. The role also drives inclusion of social workers in new policy responses, programs and schemes, using government relations strategies, targeted campaigns and a mix of engagement channels.
The Policy & Advocacy Lead provides strategic support and expertise to enable effective government and stakeholder engagement, building relationships with Ministers, advisors, Parliamentarians, senior officials, and the health and social care sector to influence decision-making and advance the profession.
About the Association
The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) is the professional representative body of social workers in Australia, with more than 17,000 members. The AASW sets the benchmarks for professional education and practice in social work and has a strong voice on matters of social justice,
human rights and issues that impact upon the quality of life of all Australians
Your Key Responsibilities
- Lead strategic policy and advocacy initiatives aligned with organisational priorities.
- Monitor and analyse policy, legislation and reform agendas, developing forward-thinking positions that support the social work profession.
- Develop clear, compelling policy positions and advocacy messages that demonstrate the value of social workers across key sectors.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with government, regulators and sector stakeholders to influence outcomes.
- Translate policy and advocacy work into practical member value, including guidance materials and communications.
- Oversee research and use evidence to inform policy development and advocacy strategies.
- Provide high-level advice, briefings and submissions to Executive and represent the organisation externally.
- Identify emerging opportunities and lead advocacy strategies, campaigns and submissions.
- Act as a senior representative in consultations, inquiries and stakeholder forums.
- Oversee complex member enquiries requiring policy interpretation or advocacy input.
Key selection criteria – Qualifications and Experience
- Qualified social worker with substantial experience in senior professional roles.
- Additional qualifications in policy and / or politics are advantageous.
- Strong background in policy analysis, development and submission writing.
- Demonstrated experience in a policy role and a sound understanding of government relations.
- Proven track record delivering advocacy campaigns and achieving outcomes.
- Skilled in stakeholder engagement, influence and relationship management.
- Experience conducting research and producing high-quality reports and insights.
- Able to prepare executive-level briefings and advice.
- Excellent communication skills across diverse audiences.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
- Understanding of social media and its role in influencing stakeholders.
How to Apply:
The AASW is committed to equal opportunities in employment and embraces diversity and inclusion in its workforce. We encourage applications from culturally and ethnically diverse communities, particularly those under represented in the social work profession including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and people with a disability.
To be considered for this role, your application must include your résumé and a cover letter telling us why you think the role would be a good fit for you.
Please direct any queries to: courtney.thompson@aasw.asn.au
Applications close 24 April 2026 however, we reserve the right to end the closing date early.
