Strategic Advocacy and Access Lead

Full-time permanent opportunity | Bald Hills, Queensland

Guide Dogs Queensland is a leading provider of services to Queenslanders living with low vision or blindness. Voted one of Australia's most trusted charities, and with thanks to the ongoing support of the community, we help people with low vision or blindness reach their goals, helping them lead an independent life of their choosing. Our services are all tailored to ensure everyone can fulfil their potential to live a life of independence, participation, inclusion and wellbeing.

Are you passionate about driving systemic change and advancing accessibility and inclusion for people with low vision or blindness? Guide Dogs Queensland is seeking a Strategic Advocacy & Access Lead to champion our advocacy agenda and strengthen our position as a trusted peak body in Queensland.

This is a senior leadership role within our Community Engagement department, reporting to the General Manager Community Engagement. You will lead our Access & Advocacy team, establish and grow a lived experience advocacy hub, and ensure the voices of people with lived experience are at the centre of all we do.

With responsibility for government relations, policy influence, and stakeholder engagement, you will play a pivotal role in shaping more inclusive communities across Queensland.

If you are a collaborative, strategic leader with the ability to influence change at a systemic level, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact

In this role, you will:

• Lead and mentor the Access & Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture.

• Develop and deliver GDQ's state-based advocacy and access strategy in alignment with national priorities.

• Establish and grow a lived experience advocacy hub and oversee the Client Liaison Committee.

• Position GDQ as a recognised peak body representing people with low vision and blindness in Queensland.

• Build strong government and stakeholder relationships, representing GDQ in forums, coalitions, and committees.

• Oversee systemic advocacy projects, including grant-funded initiatives, ensuring impact and accountability.

• Prepare high-quality submissions, position papers, and briefing materials.

• Partner with the Marketing & Communications team to amplify advocacy messages and influence public discourse.

Our ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Experience in advocacy, access, government relations, or policy at a senior level.

• Leadership experience, including managing teams, external consultants, and advisory committees.

• Strong knowledge of disability policy, human rights frameworks, and accessibility issues.

• Proven ability to engage, influence, and negotiate with government and key stakeholders.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into clear messages.

• A strategic mindset with the ability to balance competing priorities and deliver meaningful outcomes.

• Experience in the disability, health, or community services sector and/or lived experience of disability (highly regarded).

• Salary packaging options - up to $18,550 tax free per year

• A rewarding career that makes a real difference

• Great location, beautiful campus

• Wellness initiatives and an Employee Assistance Program for staff and their families

Guide Dogs Queensland has standards of conduct for employees and volunteers to maintain a safe and healthy environment. Our commitment to these standards requires that we conduct background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

You may also be required to complete video interviews, psychometric testing, and/or a medical check as part of the application process.

Please click on the 'Apply' button to submit your resume and a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) explaining your suitability for the role.