Role Description
The Sector Sustainability Officer is responsible for strengthening the financial and organisational sustainability of the disability advocacy sector in Queensland. The role will focus on building fundraising capacity, securing resources, and developing long-term partnerships to support the Queensland Independent Disability Advocacy Network (QIDAN) and its members. This includes leading fundraising initiatives, documenting and expanding in-kind and pro bono contributions, and supporting advocacy organisations to diversify income and strengthen their sustainability.
The position is full time or part time , commencing as soon as possible until 30 June 2026. The role falls under the Social, Community, Home Care & Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHDS Award) and will be paid above award rates, with duties in line with Level 5.
Remuneration: $55 – 59.99 per hour
Key Responsibilities
Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Develop and implement a sector-wide fundraising and sustainability strategy, including goals and measurable outcomes.
- Identify, map, and pursue funding sources and income opportunities (grants, philanthropy, corporate partnerships, individual giving).
- Develop and implement a workforce survey to provide insights, a dataset and build a workforce profile to advocate with government departments for an ongoing wage uplift to improve attraction, recruitment and retention in the sector.
- Document, track, and report on in-kind and pro bono contributions to demonstrate sector value and impact.
- Build the fundraising and grant-writing capacity of QIDAN members through training, resources, and mentoring.
- Cultivate and manage relationships with new and existing partners, including philanthropic organisations, corporates, and community supporters to develop a portfolio of long-term, strategic partners supporting the disability advocacy sector.
- Secure funding for QIDAN-led activities, such as conferences, campaigns, and sector projects.
- Work collaboratively with the QIDAN team and member organisations to strengthen sector capacity for self-sustainability.
- Provide regular reports and updates on fundraising outcomes, partnership development, and sustainability initiatives.
Selection Criteria
Essential
- Strong commitment to human rights, social justice and diversity.
- Demonstrated experience in fundraising, partnerships, business development, or philanthropy (preferably in the not-for-profit sector).
- Strong ability to design, implement, and deliver successful fundraising and other initiatives and partnerships.
- High-level skills in stakeholder engagement, relationship management, and negotiation.
- Proven ability to write compelling proposals, grant applications, and fundraising materials.
- Strong organisational and project management skills, including prioritising competing demands and meeting deadlines under pressure.
- Willingness to complete a criminal history screening clearance.
Desirable
- Lived experience of disability.
- Knowledge of the disability sector and/or community legal/advocacy services.
- Established networks within philanthropy, corporate, or government funding streams.
- Experience in capacity building and training delivery to support smaller organisations.
- Familiarity with tracking and reporting in-kind or pro bono contributions.
About us
We are an independent organisation that advocates for the protection and advancement of the needs, rights and lives of people with disability in Queensland. We are a registered Charity and community legal centre that works to uphold the principles of fundamental human rights, social justice and inclusion in community life. We provide advocacy to individuals through our three advocacy practices and this work informs our systemic advocacy that engages in campaigns and submissions directed at changing attitudes, law and policy.
Why work for QAI
We are an equal opportunity employer with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion within our workplace and were the first organisation to opt in to being bound by the Human Rights Act 2019 (Qld).
We encourage First Nations people and people with disability to apply as the position would benefit from a person with lived-living experiences. Applicants are encouraged to request reasonable adjustments if required to assist the application and recruitment process.
We pride ourselves on fostering a friendly and supportive workplace culture, as we take the well-being of our staff seriously. Our well-being program includes staff activities such as walks by the river, yoga, learning Auslan or potluck lunches, creating opportunities to connect with each other and take a break from our screens.
We also offer salary sacrificing options, a flexible work environment, professional supervision, paid parental leave, other additional leaves and portable long service leave, which is now standard across the sector.
QAI is willing to customise the role to facilitate candidates with disability.
Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments to assist in the application process.
A position description is linked below.
Position description – Word (370 KB)
To apply
To be considered for this role, please submit the documents listed below to qai@qai.org.au:
1. Your resume
2. A cover letter addressing the Essential Selection Criteria
Please address any questions to Megan, Chief Operating Officer on 07 3844 4200 or qai@qai.org.au using the subject line: Sector Sustainability Officer enquiry.
Applications for this position close 5pm Monday 8 September 2025.