Director, Mental Health

NACCHO is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join our team as Director, Mental Health.

This is an opportunity to influence national policy, drive system reform, and support Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to deliver culturally safe, community-led approaches to social and emotional wellbeing, mental health and suicide prevention.

About NACCHO 

The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) is the national peak body representing 148 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). ACCHOs deliver comprehensive primary health care to more than half of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples nationally. 

About the Role 

The Director, Mental Health, provides strategic leadership, policy expertise and program oversight to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB), mental health and suicide prevention outcomes. Working closely with ACCHOs, governments and key stakeholders, you will support the design and implementation of evidence-based policies and programs that respond to community priorities and contribute to Closing the Gap outcomes.

Leading a collaborative team, you will provide high-quality policy advice, advocacy and strategic direction on complex and sensitive issues, while driving initiatives such as the Culture Care Connect Program to address gaps in mental health care, influence system reform and support lasting change in policy and practice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, government agencies and key stakeholders on SEWB, mental health and suicide prevention.
• Represent and advocate for NACCHO on health service delivery, public health, research and health program priorities.
• Lead the co-design of strategic advice, submissions and position papers that support and strengthen ACCHO approaches to mental health and suicide prevention.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing team, fostering collaboration, capability and the delivery of key outcomes. 

About You 

You are a strategic thinker, collaborative leader and strong advocate who is committed to improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. You will bring: 

• Qualifications in health, social sciences or relevant discipline essential.
• Experience in a similar organisation or relevant government department is essential.
• Strong experience or understanding of working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and community-controlled organisations.
• Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated Culturally Respectful and outcomes driven approach.
• A valid WWVP clearance and National Police check or ability to obtain.

Why Join Us?

At NACCHO, you’ll contribute to meaningful, community‑focused work that supports improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. You’ll join a supportive and inclusive team, with opportunities for professional growth and a role where your work genuinely makes a difference.

How to Apply 

If you are passionate about creating lasting change and want to help shape the future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and wellbeing, we want to hear from you.

Please submit:

• Your current resume; and
• A cover letter (maximum one page) outlining how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.

For more information, visit our website at Homepage – NACCHO or download the position description. Copy the URL:  https://shorturl.at/0yGcN

For any questions regarding the role, please contact: Cherie Bell, Executive Director at cherie.bell@naccho.org.au

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Job Closing Date 11 September 2026