Senior Policy Officer – Cairns
Full-Time | Fixed Term (Until | SCHCDSI Award Level 6 (Annualised Salary)
This position is supported by government funding.
Location: Cairns Corporate Office Based in Cairns (with travel as required)
Reports to: Corporate Services Manager
About Warringu:
Warringu is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisation supporting women and children impacted by family violence and homelessness. We work closely with First Nations communities across Cairns, Mossman, and surrounding regions.
We value cultural safety, community leadership, and inclusivity, and we strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.
Position Overview:
The Senior Policy Officer will support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Prevention Group to deliver its forward workplan. This includes establishing and strengthening representative bodies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations delivering DFSV services, conducting research, and facilitating strong, collaborative relationships across the sector and with government and non-government agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
* Support the design, development, and establishment of representative bodies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations delivering DFSV services.
* Facilitate collaborative and effective relationships between the Prevention Group, ATSICCOs, government, non-government agencies, DFSV industry bodies, and other community stakeholders.
* Coordinate correspondence and submissions to Queensland and Australian Governments.
* Conduct research and identify trends and emerging issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the DFSV space.
* Contribute to continuous improvement of Prevention Group initiatives.
Key Selection Criteria / Skills Required:
* Demonstrated experience in policy development, and establishing or supporting peak/representative bodies.
* Experience conducting research and analysis on social, community, or DFSV issues.
* Knowledge of DFSV issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report and submission preparation.
* Ability to work collaboratively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations, government, non-government agencies, DFSV industry bodies, and community stakeholders.
* High-level organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Desirable:
* Experience in program evaluation or policy impact analysis.
* Understanding of culturally safe practices in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contexts.
* Previous experience in the community services sector or DFSV prevention initiatives.
* Knowledge of legislative frameworks, reporting requirements, or funding structures relevant to community-controlled organisations.
Position Requirements:
* Relevant qualifications and/or experience in policy, research, or community development.
* High-level literacy and IT skills, including Microsoft Office and cloud-based tools.
* Current driver's license.
* Current Blue Card (Working with Children) or the ability to obtain one.
Why Join Warringu:
This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in DFSV prevention, working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and contributing to sector leadership and systemic change.
How to Apply
Please submit your application via our Employment Hero portal by clicking the "Apply" button on this job listing. Your application should include:
* A current resume/CV
* A cover letter addressing the key selection criteria
Applications submitted by email or through recruitment agencies will not be accepted.
Closing Date Sunday 18 January 2026
Company Overview
Please visit our company website for more information