Strategic Policy Lead

Shape justice reform and advocacy in the NT. Lead NAAJA's policy and communications with courage, respect and purpose.

Location: Darwin

Full-time: 37.5 hours per week

About NAAJA

The North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) provides high-quality legal assistance and justice services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Northern Territory. With offices in Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine, Tennant Creek, and Alice Springs, NAAJA is a leading voice for justice, human rights, and systemic reform — recognised nationally for our commitment to empowering Aboriginal people and communities.

At NAAJA, our purpose is justice, dignity, and respect for Aboriginal people, achieved through courageous advocacy, community control, and cultural integrity.

We Offer:

At NAAJA, we believe in valuing our people and creating a workplace where purpose and wellbeing go hand in hand. In return for your expertise and commitment, you'll enjoy:

• Competitive salary: $144,109.85 – $159,483.63
• Generous salary packaging: access up to $18,550 tax-free salary packing
• Generous leave benefits: 6 weeks annual leave plus 17.5% loading, 3 weeks personal leave, and more
• Workplace benefits: discounts to some local businesses
• Work that matters: contribute to lasting justice outcomes for Aboriginal people and communities across the NT

About the Role

As the Strategic Policy Lead, you will shape and drive our policy, law reform, and communications agenda. Reporting directly to the CEO, this senior leadership position provides authoritative advice to the Executive and Board, ensuring NAAJA's voice is strong, credible, and community-led in conversations that shape justice outcomes for Aboriginal people. You will lead a small, high-performing team to deliver evidence-based policy, strategic advocacy, and impactful communications that strengthen NAAJA's influence at local, Territory, and national levels.

What You'll Do

• Provide expert policy and law reform advice that guides NAAJA's strategic direction.
• Lead development of major initiatives promoting justice, dignity, and respect for Aboriginal people.
• Anticipate and respond to emerging social, legal, and political issues.
• Oversee research, submissions, and high-level reports to governments and inquiries.
• Shape NAAJA's media and communications strategy and act as a key spokesperson.
• Build strong partnerships with Aboriginal communities, leaders, and organisations.
• Mentor and lead a small team, fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence.

What You'll Bring

• Senior experience in policy development, law reform, or strategic advocacy, ideally within justice, legal, or human rights sectors.
• A proven ability to influence governments, media, and public discourse.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, including preparing complex submissions and public messaging.
• Deep understanding of Aboriginal justice issues, cultural safety, and the importance of Aboriginal community-controlled approaches.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications (law, public policy, social sciences, communications, or similar).
• NT Driver's Licence, Working with Children Clearance (Ochre Card), and criminal history clearance.

Why You'll Love Working with Us

You'll join a team that's fearless in pursuit of justice, united by purpose, and committed to walking alongside Aboriginal communities to create change that lasts.

At NAAJA, every policy, every reform, and every word we speak is guided by the voices of the people we serve.

APPLY NOW

For more information please email:

Applications close: 12 November 2025

Join NAAJA and help drive systemic change with integrity, respect, and courage.

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