Inclusion and Diversity Specialist

Summary

Join Better Connect as our Inclusion and Diversity Specialist and help us deliver culturally safe and inclusive services to diverse and marginalized communities. This full-time ongoing position is based in Rockhampton, Hervey Bay, Emerald, or Gympie, with travel across regional Queensland. The role involves leading the development and implementation of an Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) action plan, fostering an inclusive culture, engaging with communities, supporting inclusive workforce development, designing and delivering I&D training, reviewing policies and practices, analyzing data, supporting employee resource groups, collaborating with partners, and resolving issues. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in I&D, community engagement, or similar roles, ideally in mental health, AOD, or social services, along with deep understanding of diversity, inclusion, and cultural competence. A tertiary qualification in a relevant field is preferred. Competitive salary, flexible working conditions, and various benefits are offered.

Requirements

• Experience: Extensive background (min 5 years preferred) in I&D, community engagement, or similar roles, ideally in mental health, AOD, or social services
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of diversity, inclusion, and cultural competence, particularly in the context of mental health and AOD services
• Skills: Expertise in I&D training, data analysis, leadership, and effective collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders
• Passion: A genuine commitment to creating positive change for diverse and underrepresented populations
• Cultural Understanding: Knowledge of Indigenous cultural practices and experience in developing culturally safe services

Responsibilities

• Lead I&D Strategy : Develop and implement an Action Plan in collaboration with staff, communities, and partners
• Foster Inclusive Culture : Embed I&D principles across policies, services, and organisational culture
• Community Engagement : Strengthen access and inclusion for LGBTIQA+, multicultural, disability, and other underrepresented groups
• Workforce Development : Support inclusive recruitment, training, and cultural competence initiatives
• Training & Capability Building : Design and deliver I&D training across key service areas
• Policy & Practice Review : Ensure policies reflect I&D and cultural safety commitments
• Data & Reporting : Analyse I&D and workforce data to inform strategy and measure impact
• Support ERGs : Enable employee groups that foster connection and representation
• Partner Collaboration : Work with consortium partners and the Indigenous Engagement Manager to improve service delivery
• Issue Resolution : Provide guidance on addressing discrimination and promoting equity
• Travel : Engage communities and partners across regional Queensland as needed

Preferred Qualifications

Tertiary qualification in relevant field is preferred

Benefits

• Flexible working conditions tailored to you
• Competitive salary based on your experience and qualifications
• Diversity & belonging – We value all backgrounds, abilities, and identities and are committed to cultural safety
• Boost your take-home pay – Not-for-Profit Salary Packaging (up to $15,900 tax-free per year) plus an extra $2,650 tax-free for meals and entertainment
• Relocation support : If you have relocated permanently for work purposes you may be able to substantially increase your take-home pay by salary packaging some or all of your relocation costs
• Career growth : Access a range of professional development opportunities, from leadership training to discipline-specific learning
• Free, confidential support – Our Employee Assistance Program is available for you and your family
• More leave when you need it – 4 weeks annual leave, sick/carer’s leave, family & domestic violence leave, and the option to purchase extra leave
• 17% annual leave loading (get paid more on your holidays)