Community Development Advisor

We're seeking a driven and compassionate **Community Development Advisor** to lead Council’s work across the **disability, homelessness and mental health portfolios**. This is not just a community-facing role - it’s a **strategic leadership opportunity** to influence change at the systems level. You’ll be developing and implementing key policies and initiatives that directly support vulnerable populations, while ensuring Council delivers on its commitment to equity, access and inclusion.

You'll work with a wide range of stakeholders - from local services and government agencies to grassroots community groups - to deliver coordinated, innovative responses that advocate for emerging community needs. Your ability to write clear, impactful strategies and policies will help translate Council’s goals into lasting, positive change.

**About the Role**:

- **Lead the development and implementation** of strategic policies, programs and community plans that strengthen the wellbeing of people living with disability and those experiencing vulnerability, including homelessness and mental health challenges.
- Drive Council’s **homelessness and mental health portfolio**, developing collaborative initiatives with local stakeholders and service providers.
- Build and maintain effective partnerships with community organisations, service providers, government agencies, and volunteers.
- Support Council's **Access and Inclusion Reference Group**to champion inclusion via our Disability Inclusion Action Plan.
- Provide strategic advice and insight to shape evidence-based approaches and policy development across disability and vulnerable community sectors.
- Facilitate programs and events that foster inclusion, social connection, and respect across the community.

**Who We’re Looking For**:
We’re seeking someone who is:

- A **strategic thinker and strong policy writer**, experienced in developing and evaluating community development strategies.
- Passionate about driving **real change in homelessness, mental health and disability inclusion**.
- Skilled in **community engagement, capacity building and stakeholder collaboration**.
- Experienced in working across government, community services and not-for-profits to deliver meaningful outcomes for vulnerable populations.

**Essential Requirements**:

- Tertiary qualifications in Community Development, Social Work or a related field.
- Proven experience in community planning, project management and service coordination.
- Strong knowledge of current issues and trends in the disability, mental health and homelessness sectors.
- Excellent communication, research and report-writing skills.
- Current NSW Driver’s Licence.

Join our Team and Grow with Us
- **Interview date**:Interviews will be facilitated on Tuesday 5th August 2025.
- **Package**:$93,854 - $99,489 gross p.a. plus 12% superannuation.
- **Hours of work**:Full Time, working 35 hours per week. You will have the option of a 19 day month through Council’s flex system.
- To benefit your wellbeing you will have access to fitness passport, employee assistance program, annual flu shots, health and wellbeing programme and novated lease options.

**About Us**:
If you want to make a difference and be part of a challenging and rewarding working environment, then joining us just might be the right career move for you Join a passionate and dedicated team covering a diversity of services, industries and occupations.
- At Sutherland Shire Council we do more than serve our community - we are our community. Our energy can be seen in everything we do. From having a can-do attitude, to embracing change and opportunities, being people-centred and working together as one.