Elder and Disability Program Lead

Are you passionate about advocating for the rights and needs of Aboriginal Elders and people living with a disability? Do you have experience in leading programs and managing projects? SAWCAN is seeking a motivated and strategic Elder and Disability Program Lead to coordinate and deliver key disability and aged care programs across the Eyre and Far West Coast of South Australia.

About us

The South Australian West Coast ACCHO Network (SAWCAN) is a partnership of five Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) working together to improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people across the Eyre Peninsula and Far West Coast. We collaborate to build capacity, share knowledge, and advocate as one voice for our communities.

About the role

As the Elder and Disability Program Lead, you will manage the delivery of disability and aged care programs, including the Aboriginal disAbility Alliance (AAA) and Elder Care Support Program. You will ensure that programs align with NDIS and Aged Care reforms, are culturally appropriate, and meet the needs of our region. You will also lead a team, oversee program budgets, and ensure timely reporting to funding bodies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Implementing regional project plans in accordance with funding requirements and objectives.
• Supporting each ACCHO to develop and implement locally-based work plans for disability and aged care.
• Collaborating with SAWCAN partners to design Aboriginal-led aged care and disability initiatives.
• Lead program evaluation activities and managing program budgets.
• Overseeing and supporting staff to deliver on project outcomes.
• Advocating for aged care and disability matters across the region and responding to national policy reforms.

What we’re looking for:

• Keen traveller happy to regularly travel across the Eyre and Far West Coast region.
• Strong leadership experience in managing programs, preferably in the disability or aged care sectors.
• Highly experienced in working with Aboriginal people and communities, with an innate understanding of the complexities of regional and remote communities in the aged care and disability space.
• Proven ability to manage contracts, program budgets, and ensure compliance with funding requirements.
• Excellent communication skills, including strong written skills, proficiency in reporting, and responding to policy.
• Ability to mentor and develop staff, fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Knowledge of NDIS and Aged Care reforms, with a commitment to community-led approaches.
• Understanding of Aboriginal culture and ways of working, particularly within the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Sector

Why work with SAWCAN?

• Make a difference – Lead programs that create meaningful change in Aboriginal communities.
• Grow your career – SAWCAN offers professional development opportunities and the chance to work on innovative projects.
• Collaborative team environment – Work alongside a passionate team committed to improving health and wellbeing for Aboriginal people.

How to apply:

If you have experience in program management, expert hands-on knowledge of NDIS and Aged Care, with a commitment to community-led approaches and a deep understanding of the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Sector, we encourage you to apply. Submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria (no more than 2 pages). Please include the details of three professional referees who are contactable by phone.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply.