Policy and Advocacy Advisor

About us

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) is responsible for training, educating and representing psychiatrists in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The College is accredited by the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) to deliver specialist medical education and training, and professional development programs. The College is committed to elevating healthcare outcomes for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Māori communities guided by its commitments to reconciliation and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

About the role

Tenure: Full time, Fixed Term (6 months)

Location: Open to applicants based in NSW

The Policy and Advocacy Advisor (NSW Branch) plays a pivotal role in driving mental health policy and advocacy in New South Wales. Working closely with the Branch Chair and Committee, this role leads the development and delivery of advocacy strategies to influence decision-makers, shape policy outcomes, and raise the profile of the College.

This is a dynamic and outward-facing role that requires political nous, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships with government, sector organisations, and the community. If you're passionate about making a tangible impact on mental health policy and thrive on influencing change, this is your opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of advocacy strategies to advance the Branch's priorities.
• Prepare high-quality submissions, policy briefs, and campaign materials that influence mental health policy and services in NSW.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Ministers, government agencies, and key stakeholders to enhance the Branch's influence and visibility.
• Identify opportunities for joint campaigns and strategic partnerships with sector organisations.
• Support the Branch Chair and Committee in media, digital, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Represent the College at meetings, forums, and consultations to advocate for evidence-based policy reform.

For more details, please refer to the Position Description via the "Apply Now" button.

What you'll bring

• Strong experience in policy and advocacy, with the ability to turn complex information into clear, persuasive messages.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the confidence to influence and collaborate with government, sector partners, and committees.
• Proven ability to plan, prioritise, and deliver projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills with a knack for engaging diverse audiences.
• Initiative, independence, and the flexibility to work across teams and outside standard hours when needed.
• Australian or New Zealand citizen or holds the right to work in Australia.

Desirable

• Experience in health or mental health policy and advocacy.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications in health, social science, political science, or related fields.
• Experience leading advocacy campaigns or strategic policy initiatives.

Some of what's on offer:

• Salary range from $82,896-$103,646 total remuneration package (TRP) per annum is on offer, inclusive of leave loading and 12% superannuation.
• A paid day off each month for full-time employees.
• A values-led, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace where diversity is celebrated.
• The chance to be part of a passionate team working to improve mental health outcomes.

How to apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining how you meet the requirements of the role as a single document via the Expr3ss link. We recommend reviewing the position description before applying.

For any queries, contact us at No agencies, please.

Diversity and Inclusion

At the RANZCP, we are committed to fostering a workplace where diversity, inclusion, and authenticity are celebrated. We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including First Nations peoples, LGBTQIA+ communities, neurodivergent individuals, and people of all ages, ethnicities, faiths, and lived and living experiences. We value and embrace what makes you uniquely you.

Applications close at 5PM, Thursday 18 September. Please note: This advertisement may remain visible after the closing date due to platform settings. If you see this ad after the closing date, you are welcome to email your application to ; however, please be aware that the recruitment process may have already progressed.