Advocate

Location:                                         Canberra

Employment Status:                 Permanent – full time

About ADACAS

ADACAS (ACT Disability Aged and Carer Advocacy Service) is a leading advocacy service with a 30-year history in Canberra and areas across NSW. ADACAS provides individual and systemic advocacy to people with disability, older people and their family carers and also delivers other project activity consistent with our vision and mission.

We are passionate about asserting, promoting and protecting human rights and speaking up on behalf of people who cannot speak up for themselves. Our vision is a world in which everyone can exercise their rights and responsibilities, lead lives of value and dignity and pursue their dreams. ADACAS has a strong reputation as a human rights organisation and participates in a range of opportunities, both locally and nationally to influence change on behalf of our client groups.

About the Role

This role is responsible for providing individual advocacy, amplifying the voice of individuals to undertake their expressed wish, and without judgement. This position is focused on engaging with people over the age of 65, often living in residential aged care or receiving Commonwealth Home Support Services.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Support and/or represent ADACAS clients, applying a best practice approach in individual advocacy.
  • Escalate any issues or concerns with the Older Persons Team Leader in a prompt and timely manner.
  • Represent ADACAS at events and meetings as required.
  • Establish and maintain effective relationships with community partners, service providers, Government agencies and other stakeholders as required and take part in meetings with representatives.

Classification 5 of the SCHADS Award will be negotiated with the successful applicant depending on qualifications and experience.

About you

You will be able to demonstrate the following:

  • A strong commitment to work within a human-rights framework and take a restorative practice approach.
  • Experience working with and or advocating for people with a disability, older people, people with mental ill health, CALD community and First Nations peoples.
  • Demonstrated ability to understand and apply legislation, policies and procedures, including the ability to identify issues and problem solve.
  • Experience working in the community service sector or similar.
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills.
  • Great team player, can demonstrate initiative and be self-motivated.
  • Ability to cope with complex cases and apply stress management techniques.
  • High-level organisation skills and time management.
  • Ability to write factual accounts of discussions / interactions with clients and other stakeholders.
  • Sound knowledge and application of the MS Office suite of applications.

The successful applicant will hold, or be able to obtain, a Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) registration, current National Criminal Record Check and have a current driver’s license. All ADACAS employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and to receive an annual influenza immunisation.

What’s on Offer

  • A rewarding opportunity that can make a difference within your local community
  • Ongoing training and learning opportunities
  • Have the backing of a supportive and friendly team
  • Generous Salary Packaging Benefits including everyday living expenses of $15,900 tax free and Meal/Entertainment card – $2,650 tax free

ADACAS also recognises the importance of diversity. We are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect.

First Nations people are encouraged to apply.

Please direct any questions to adacas@adacas.org.au and someone will get back to you promptly.

To apply

Submit your resume and cover letter addressing the selection criteria via email. Applications close on Wednesday 15 February at 5pm. ADACAS reserves the right to close this role early if suitable candidates are found. Please monitor your email regarding communication on the progress of your application.