National Advocacy Lead

Were on the search for a strategic politically savvy leader to head up our government relations and advocacy work. Youll drive national and state-level engagement shape public policy and lead a small high-performing team thats passionate about building a better fairer food system.

The National Advocacy Lead will shape public discourse on food waste and food insecurity. The role will develop and deliver strategies that influence government mobilise the public and drive reform at every level.

This person will lead the delivery of policy submissions public campaigns and strategic advocacy projects. They will build trusted relationships with government political stakeholders and sector partners to advance OzHarvests priorities.

They will oversee policy development and research grounded in evidence operational insight and cross-sector collaboration. They will work across the organisation to build advocacy capability support local and state-level engagement and align advocacy efforts with program delivery and media.

This role can be full-time or part-time (4 days). Location is Sydney-preferred. Occasional travel required particularly to Canberra.

Why join us

This is more than just a job its a chance to put your skills to work for something that truly matters.

At our core were a purpose-driven organisation made up of people who care deeply about reducing food waste ending food insecurity and building a more sustainable and equitable future. Were driven by impact grounded in empathy and united by a shared belief that better is possible.

Heres what makes working here different:

• Mission-first culture work with a purpose every day.
• Dynamic and nation-leading organisation with strong networks and respected voice across sectors.
• Policy leadership with impact influence national and state strategies on food waste and hunger.
• Purpose with tangible outcomes youll see the direct results of your work whether its a funding win a new policy adopted or more rescued meals reaching people who need them most
• A team youll actually enjoy working with were proud of the fact that people here genuinely like each other. We collaborate without ego celebrate each others wins and have each others backs. Youll be joining a team thats as committed as it is kind.
• We take work-life balance seriously flexible work arrangements extra leave days and a supportive leadership team that values diverse perspectives and lived experience.

If youre ready to shape systems and policy to help build a fairer more sustainable food future for all Australians we want to hear from you. Read the job description below and apply at (

Job description

Responsibility 1: Lead advocacy at OzHarvest: strategy projects and team

• Lead the development and execution of OzHarvests national advocacy strategy aligning it with our mission to Nourish Australia including reducing food waste and food insecurity.
• Manage and mentor a small high-performing team fostering a culture of collaboration purpose and continuous improvement.
• Lead cross-functional project teams to deliver campaigns submissions and policy responses
• Design and lead targeted advocacy strategies that influence decision-makers and drive systems change at federal and state levels
• Monitor the external policy landscape to identify emerging risks and opportunities advising the CEO and Executive Team (MTeam) on strategic positioning.
• Coordinate internally across departments to ensure advocacy is informed by on-the-ground insights and aligned with program and communications strategies.
• Build organisational advocacy capability by growing internal understanding of government relations and empowering staff as issue ambassadors.

Responsibility 2: Lead government relations

• Cultivate relationships with ministers MPs advisors and federal government departments
• Advise and support colleagues in developing effective state and local government engagement strategies
• Identify and help secure government funding and partnership opportunities that advance our work
• Develop and deliver tactical engagement plans navigating election and budget cycles parliamentary processes and inquiries
• Collaborate with consultants and OzHarvest Board Members to extend our reach
• Represent OzHarvest in parliamentary hearings inquiries roundtables and high-level policy forums with confidence and credibility.

Responsibility 3: Lead policy research

• Maintain a strong understanding of the policy and regulatory environment surrounding food systems waste reduction and food relief.
• Develop policy positions submissions briefing notes and white papers.
• Cultivate relationships with policy stakeholders including industry bodies and think tanks.
• Represent OzHarvest in research and policy networks focussed on food relief social services and sustainability.

Responsibility 4: Lead campaigns and community activation

• Design and deliver issue-based campaigns that mobilise supporters volunteers and partners to advocate for change.
• Collaborate with the Media and Marketing team to shape compelling advocacy messaging and campaign content across digital media and storytelling channels.

Skills Knowledge & Experience

• 7-15 years experience in government political offices industry bodies or corporate/ public affairs.
• Experience in a Ministerial office (desirable)
• Understanding of Australian political and public service decision-making systems and processes
• Proven ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and build trusted relationships
• Track record of achieving tangible outcomes in advocacy or policy reform
• Experience leading teams and managing cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders
• Strong strategic thinking and ability to respond to shifting political and policy contexts
• Exceptional communication skills; ability to turn complex issues into compelling narratives
• Highly organised adaptable and detail-oriented with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Confident using core digital tools (e.g. MS Office CRM like Salesforce or ability to learn quickly).

Personal Abilities and Aptitudes

• Genuine commitment to and enthusiasm for OzHarvests mission and values
• Interest in equity sustainability advocacy and systems change
• Political acumen and sound judgement
• Strong initiative; proactive energetic and positive
• Skilled relationship builder and collaborator
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and multiple issues
• Strong customer service approach
• Ability to work effectively under pressure

To apply please follow through the online application process and attach your CV a cover letter and include a message as to Why would you like to work at OzHarvest (creativity encouraged!).

Please note that only applications with a cover letter addressing the question above will be shortlisted.

Applications close Sunday 24th of August at 11:59pm.

If you have any further questions please contact

OzHarvest is proud to be an equal opportunity employer that supports diversity inclusion and belonging. Please note: If you have a Language or Cultural special consideration a disability or impairment or use assistive technology please let us know in your Cover Letter when applying. You can ask a support person to help you through the application and interview process.