Advocate and NDIS Appeals Officer

The Rights Information and Advocacy Centre (RIAC) is a not for profit organisation operating throughout Central and North Western Victoria, Geelong and Southern NSW which provides information, advocacy and NDIS appeals support to individuals, families, carers and communities.

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) Appeals Officer and Advocate will play a key role in aiding applicants, to navigate the process of seeking an Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) review of NDIS decisions. 

The role will also focus on building self-advocacy skills and supporting people to have their voices heard, and human rights upheld.

The incumbent will have specific responsibilities for the promotion and education of RIAC within the community and will have a range of reporting and administrative responsibilities. 

This position is full time and will be paid under the SCHADS Award with a total remuneration package including superannuation, leave loading, salary packaging and other generous working conditions.

People that identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and people with a lived experience of disability, are strongly encouraged to apply.

What we can offer you:

• Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services (SCHADS), Level 3.1 – 4.1 depending on qualifications and experience, to be negotiated with the successful candidate within the salary range
• 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday
• Clinical Supervision
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexibility to work part of the role remotely for the right candidate
• Salary packaging options available within ATO limits and guidelines.  Tax free salary packaging options can increase ‘take home’ pay
• Employment will be initially offered for a fixed term, 12-month contract (inclusive of a 6-month probationary period) from commencement with options for renewal based on your performance and funding allocations.
• A paid criminal history check and working with children check prior to appointment.

Duties Include:

• Advocating on behalf of or supporting people with disability to self-advocate.
• Linking people with disability with other relevant services that can assist in the advocacy process (e.g. obtaining legal advice).
• Assisting people with disability through the NDIS Appeals process.
• Delivering relevant information and group sessions

Selection Criteria:

1. Relevant tertiary qualifications (examples only: law, legal studies, social work, psychology, social science, welfare studies, community services).
2. A current driver’s license or other reasonable method of transport to attend client visits when required (Work vehicles available)
3. Experience and skills relevant to advocating for people from disadvantaged or vulnerable groups.
4. Demonstrated understanding and a strong commitment to the rights and interests of people with disability and promotion of self-advocacy.
5. Demonstrated ability and experience in working effectively and collegially in partnerships and as part of a team
6. High-level skills in the following areas: oral and written communication, research, problem solving and negotiation.
7. Demonstrated knowledge and capacity to facilitate group information sessions to diverse groups.
8. Knowledge of key disability issues such as the NDIS and Disability Royal Commission.
9. Experience in developing and maintaining effective communication with clients on complex matters, issues and/or complex situations
10. Experience in delivering an accessible and responsive service to clients and the ability to critically review and reflect on own practice.
11. Driven by integrity, responsibility, accountability, attention to detail and pride in work.
12. Previous use of client data base systems and high-level skills in Office 365, including and not limited to: MS Word, Excel, SharePoint, and MS Outlook.

Submission Checklist

Have you provided? 

1. A cover letter including contact details
2. A document that addresses each selection criterion listed above (please include this with your cover letter or resume document for ease of submission via Seek)
3. A current resume including two current professional referees

Applications close Thursday 10th December 2020

Then hit ‘apply now’ via Seek ensuring everything is included so your application can be considered.

Enquiries regarding the position can be directed to 

Nicole James operations@riac.org.au