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 Senior Advisor, RHD supports NACCHO’s national work to reduce the inequitable burden of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Working as part of the RHD Team, the role contributes to policy analysis, prepares briefing materials, monitors emerging research, and assists with stakeholder engagement across national initiatives. You will ensure that all work is grounded in ACCHO sector expertise, community priorities, lived experience, and the principles of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
The role also involves supporting cross team collaboration, preparing documentation for governance and advisory groups, and contributing to a culturally safe and respectful team environment. Some travel may be required
Responsibilities of this role but not limited to:
- Analyse legislation, policy proposals and system reforms to identify implications for the organisation and the communities or sectors it serves.
- Provide high quality, timely and evidence informed policy advice to senior leaders and internal teams.
- Lead the development of policy positions, submissions, briefing papers and other strategic policy materials.
- Monitor emerging research, data, inquiries and national trends to support proactive policy development.
About You
To succeed in this role, you will bring:
Essential experience
- Experience in policy analysis, research, program support or advocacy within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, public health or related sectors.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret evidence, data and research.
- Good written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear briefing materials and policy documents.
- Ability to engage respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, organisations or peak bodies.
- Demonstrated ability to build positive working relationships with partners, government stakeholders or sector organisations.
- Ability to manage competing tasks and deliver high quality work on time.
Desirable experience
- Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is highly desirable.
- Foundational knowledge of ARF, RHD, environmental health determinants or public health issues.
- Awareness of health system reform or government policy processes.
- Experience supporting committees, working groups or multistakeholder forums.
- Tertiary qualifications and/or equivalent professional experience in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, public health, policy, research, social sciences or a related field
Capabilities & values
- Commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination and the principles of community control.
- Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to team goals.
- Strong communication and relationship building skills.
- Adaptability, cultural humility and a willingness to learn.
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
Submit your resume and a cover letter (maximum one page) addressing the selection criteria listed above.
For more information, visit our website at Homepage – NACCHO or download the position description. Copy the URL: https://shorturl.at/DMLx7
For any questions regarding the role, please contact: Claire O’Neill, Director, Rheumatic Heart Disease at claire.oneill@naccho.org.au
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Closing Date 24th February 2026
Applications will be assessed as they are submitted, and application may be closed early if a suitable candidate is found
