Director, Policy & Advocacy
Shape the future of First Nations VET policy across Australia

Lead national policy. Influence reform. Create lasting impact.

The Indigenous Centre of Vocational Excellence (ICOVE) is a recent First Nations-led national initiative established under the National Skills Agreement to improve vocational education and training outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Delivered by Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS) in partnership with Tranby Aboriginal Co-operative, ICOVE brings together policy, research and innovation to help shape a stronger, more equitable VET system.

We're seeking an experienced Director, Policy & Advocacy to lead ICOVE's policy function and influence national reform.

This is a remote role within Australia, with a preference for candidates based in Canberra.

About the role

Reporting to the Policy Director, you'll:
Lead ICOVE's national policy and advocacy agenda
Develop policy positions, submissions and strategic briefings
Represent ICOVE with Commonwealth, State and Territory governments
Build partnerships across government, First Nations organisations and the VET sector
Monitor emerging policy issues and identify opportunities for influence




Mentor and lead a high-performing policy team
Contribute to organisational strategy and national reform initiatives

About you

You'll bring:
5+ years' experience in policy, government or public affairs
Robust policy analysis and strategic writing skills
Experience preparing submissions, ministerial briefs or policy papers
Exceptional stakeholder engagement and influencing capability
Ability to translate complex policy into practical outcomes

Highly regarded:
Knowledge of Australia's VET system
Experience with Closing the Gap or First Nations policy
Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations

Why join ICOVE?

This is a rare opportunity to help build a recent national organisation from the ground up.

You'll work alongside respected leaders committed to improving outcomes for First Nations communities while influencing policy at the highest levels.

ICOVE offers:
Remote working within Australia
National leadership opportunity
Purpose-driven work with genuine social impact
Collaborative and values-led culture
Opportunity to influence national policy and reform

Applications close: 14th August 2026

📌 Assistant Director Policy & Advocacy Canberra
🏢 Scout Talent
📍 Canberra