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Life at Vinnies
At Vinnies, we are what we do. We believe in making a difference. We are one of Queensland’s most-loved charitable organisations and are committed to leading with our values and mission at heart. We work together to build a legacy that we can be proud of, supporting those in need within our communities. Our companions are why our journey started, striving to shape a more just and compassionate society. Our employees, members and volunteers are the reason our journey continues, and why we will succeed.
What we can offer you
- Work with a purpose – not your average organisation and not your average role!
- Competitive hourly rate and excellent employment benefits under our Employee Agreement
- Salary packaging arrangements – helping you save on tax
- Access to our Employee Assistance Program – our employees are our most valuable asset
- A welcoming and inclusive environment where you’ll always feel part of a team
Your role
The First Nations Lead is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing strategies and initiatives that promote engagement, support, and empowerment of First Nations communities. The role will also assist to shape and promote collaborative Diocesan Engagement plans. This role requires a deep understanding of First Nations culture, protocols, and contemporary issues and is an identified role
Society’s mission and values
The Society is a lay Catholic organisation that aspires to live the gospel message by serving Christ in the poor with love, respect, justice, hope and joy, and by working to shape a more just and compassionate society.
Commitment, compassion, respect, integrity, empathy, advocacy and courage are our values. We work together in an environment where our people have a shared understanding of how we behave towards each other, the individuals and communities we serve, our supporters and all those we are in contact with through our good works.
Key responsibilities
Strategy Development and Implementation including identifying and facilitating delivery of key priorities and objectives
- Lead the development and implementation of a First Nations engagement and progress of the SVdP Reconciliation Action Plan
- Oversee strategic First Nations projects, programs, and engagement initiatives and developing and implementing culturally safe principles of engagement
- Ensure First Nations knowledge and cultural values inform the organisation's policies, strategies, and service delivery
Stakeholder Engagement
- Work with the Reconciliation Action Plan Committee to guide and support initiatives that build on SVdP’s strategic objectives
- Establish, build, and maintain collaborative relationships with First Nations stakeholders
- Coordinate and lead First Nations stakeholder engagement activities, including facilitating meetings, workshops, and consultations
- Cultivate strategic relationships with external entities such as government departments, industry organisations, and other not-for-profits.
Program Management
- Lead programs and activities that provide targeted support to First Nations communities, such as crisis relief and service delivery
- Oversee the efficient and effective use of financial and human resources within the First Nations division
- Assist in the development of new programs and tender applications ensuring that service delivery embeds the voice of First Nations people applying principles of cultural safety and Wise Practice.
Cultural Leadership
- Promote an inclusive and culturally safe environment within the SVdPQ
- Provide expert guidance on cultural capability and issues relevant to First Nations communities and stakeholders, supporting programs in aligning with cultural protocols and reporting any challenges that may impact the Society’s program objectives
- In consultation with relevant departments lead educational and employment initiatives and cultural strengthening projects
- Undertake other duties, which are assigned from time to time by your Manager
- Comply with all WHS duties and responsibilities in accordance with the document WHS Directive: WHS Roles and Responsibilities (up to and including “Supervisors / Managers”) and the WHS Act 2011
- In all duties, comply with the behavioural expectations set out in the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Code of Conduct, and our policies and procedures
Qualifications and experience
- Demonstrated experience in a First Nations engagement role, particularly in coordinating high-profile projects within complex stakeholder environments
- Strong understanding of First Nations cultural protocols and contemporary issues
- Experience within the community services sector or not-for-profit organisations
- Excellent cross-cultural communication and engagement skills
- Proven ability to lead the development and implementation of First Nations strategies and programs
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Ability to work autonomously and make decisions within approved plans and budgets.
- Excellent interpersonal and networking skills.
- Commitment to promoting First Nations self-determination and representation.
- Understanding of the Society’s mission and values and ability to align that with key strategic objectives.
