Community Awareness and Engagement Specialist, Part-time/Sessional

Make a difference to young people by joining a leading and well-recognised national mental health organisation Help grow the reach, understanding and impact of vital headspace services for young people Full time position in a hybrid environment based in Melbourne CBD Who is headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation? headspace is the leading youth mental health organisation in Australia. Each year, headspace helps thousands of young people, and their family and friends, access vital support online, over the phone, in schools and through our headspace centres in more than 170 communities across Australia. To learn more about headspace and the services we offer, visit headspace.org.au. About the role Community Awareness and Engagement (CAE) is a core component of the headspace model, which uses mental health promotion frameworks to increase mental health literacy, reduce stigma, encourage early help seeking and promote access to headspace services in local communities. The CAE Specialist plays a key role in implementing and overseeing activities that support CAE workers across the headspace network. This role is responsible for creating communications, collaboration opportunities and events as well as developing resources and training. The CAE Specialist works directly with headspace services and CAE staff and is a critical point of contact supporting best practice, continuous learning and collaboration. This role is being offered full time (1.0 FTE), or part time - 4 days per week (0.8 FTE) on a 2-year maximum term contract. What you'll do Develop and implement regular communications, online meetings/activities and in-person stakeholder engagement opportunities for CAE workers in the headspace network. Under the guidance of the CAE Lead support implementation of CAE related projects, events and initiatives Provide direct support, consultation and guidance to CAE workers and headspace service leadership to embed and operationalise the CAE component of the headspace model. Identify and support education, training and communication needs for CAE workers. Support processes to monitor and track CAE activities for reporting to the Executive and Board. Provide support for CAE participation and support structures, including the CAE advisory group and any relevant communities of practice. Proactively generate and maintain productive relationships with key internal stakeholders, supporting headspace National divisions to effectively and strategically engage with CAE workers. Maintain up-to-date records for CAE contacts in the headspace CRM. Who we're looking for We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, with experience managing projects, as well as; 3+ years' experience in a community engagement and development, youth engagement, health promotion, education or related field. Strong written communication skills and demonstrated experience in developing written materials including newsletters/communications, policies and processes, guidance documents and subject specific resources. Demonstrated experience in planning and delivering safe and strategic events and activities. Previous experience in developing engaging and purposeful training for a broad range of audiences. Highly developed verbal communication skills, including experience and confidence presenting to large audiences. Proven track record in building and managing relationships with a range of stakeholders, including young people and diverse communities. Capacity to take initiative and prioritise and manage multiple and competing work tasks to a deadline. Advanced computer skills including word processing, spreadsheets and database applications. Seeks to bring a positive contribution to team and organisational culture. Ability to think creatively. Ability to work collaboratively and consult appropriately, but also to take initiative and work autonomously when required. What's on offer Full time (1.0 FTE) or part time (0.8 FTE, 4 days per week) FTE base salary range of $85,000 - $95,000, plus superannuation, plus salary packaging Excellent salary packaging up to the maximum amount ($15,900) - For more information on salary packaging, please refer to: The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of young people across Australia. Hybrid work environment where you can work from home and in the Melbourne CBD office. Professional development opportunities. A focus on wellbeing and a commitment to diversity. Additional leave over the Christmas/New Year period. How to apply Click on 'Apply Now' to view the position description, and to complete your application. Your application must include a resume and cover letter telling us why you are the best candidate for the role considering the Key Responsibilities found in the position description. Applications close: 11:30pm, Sunday 4 January 2026 To be eligible for this position you must Have the right to live and work in Australia. Hold a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) in your home State / Territory. Satisfactorily undergo a headspace Police Check. headspace is committed to workforce diversity and to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued, celebrated, and can contribute meaningfully. We encourage applications from people with lived experience of diversity to enhance the depth of skill and insight within our workforce. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply for this role and all current vacancies. headspace is committed to being a child safe and child friendly organisation that recognises, respects, and promotes the rights of children, young and vulnerable people. headspace will provide reasonable personalisation for all candidates to participate equitably in the recruitment process. Please advise us should you require assistance. For more information contact: Name: Kris DeightonPhone: Email: Apply now