LGBTQ+ Conversion Practices Support

The Conversion Practices Ban Act 2024 came into effect on 4 April 2025 and prohibits LGBTQ+ conversion practices in NSW. It creates criminal offences for delivering or performing conversion practices, which will be overseen by NSW Police, and establishes a new civil complaints scheme administered by Anti-Discrimination NSW. 

LGBTQ+ Conversion practices are harmful actions that try to change or suppress someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity. They are now against the law in NSW. 

Everyone deserves to live as their true self—free from judgment, fear, or attempts to change who they are. 

ACON can provide support to people who have been impacted by conversion practices. This service provides a safe, confidential and affirming space for people to talk about their experiences and begin the healing process. Our counsellors are specially trained to understand the trauma and harm caused by conversion practices, offering care that’s grounded in respect, understanding and hope. 

 To access the service please complete the Online Enquiry Form or contact your nearest ACON office 

Multicultural Peer Navigation Officer

Do you understand the challenges of settling into a new country? Do you want to make a real difference in the lives of others and help end HIV transmissions? We’d love to hear from you!

• Draw on your interpersonal skills and lived experience of migrating to Australia to build trust and support others in feeling confident to navigate health services, especially sexual health services, around Australia.
• We pay above award rates in a flexible and inclusive work environment, offering fully remote work options for both full-time and part-time positions.

What’s the Peer Navigation Project, you say?

You’ll be working within ACON’s Population Health Division, supporting our new peer navigation project. This project is designed to help recently arrived gay and bi+ men settle into life in Australia, build local community connections, and access sexual health services with confidence and ease.

Ok, so what’s the role?

The Multicultural Peer Navigation Officer will draw on lived or community experience to build trust, provide information, and guide individuals through Australia’s HIV and sexual health system. The role focuses on culturally inclusive support by addressing barriers to access and connecting people with relevant services such as HIV testing, PrEP, treatment, and peer support. You will:

• Provide one-on-one conversations, in both English and another language, to newly arrived and overseas-born         gay, bisexual and men who have sex with other men (GBMSM) in a culturally inclusive and non-judgemental way.
• Work with community members to build confidence in engaging with healthcare providers and promote system
• Collaborate with other team members to plan and implement outreach activities, particularly in settings where         priority language communities gather.

Who are we looking for?

• Someone with lived experience of immigrating to Australia, a strong personal or cultural connection to overseas-born gay and bisexual men, and an understanding of the health and social issues they may face.
• Someone with strong interpersonal skills in both English and a community language (preferably Thai, Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese), Vietnamese, Spanish or Portuguese), and confidence to engage with the community in multiple languages.
• Someone willing to learn about HIV/STI treatment and prevention, and to support others in accessing care.

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a colourful, nurturing, and fun workplace. Our employees and volunteers are the foundation for our ongoing effectiveness and for our capacity to deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

We provide a flexible and supportive working environment. You’ll be part of the HIV and Sexual Health Division. A highly focused team responsible for delivering information and support services on relevant health issues to GBMSM, people living with HIV, and other ACON communities.

What’s the remuneration and working details?

Salary:           $72,547.00 to $75,625.00, pro-rata for part-time roles (Gross Annual Salary, PLUS Superannuation and Leave Loading) [$39.86 to $41.55 / hr + Super + LL].

Location:      ACON’s Gadigal lands (Sydney) Office, with flexible and remote working options a possibility (away from the office).

Hours:          Part-Time and Full-Time (up to 70 hours per fortnight) on a 1-year fixed term contract with the possibility of extension.

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of benefits and entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.

How can I find out more details and apply?

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply to join our team and help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By joining us, you will be part of a mission to create a healthier and more inclusive community.

We’d love someone who has experience already in this area but people at all levels of experience are welcome to apply. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from CALD backgrounds, people with disabilities, and people of all genders to apply.

For more information on the role, please contact Joubert van der Merwe, Manager, Gay and Bi+ Men’s Sexual Health Programs, via email at JvanderMerwe@acon.org.au.

If this sounds like the position and organisation you’ve been looking for, find out how to apply at www.acon.org.au/jobs.

Your ONLINE APPLICATION must include:

1. Your completed ACON Employment Application Form – with all the details filled in where requested;
2. Your Cover Letter answering the following questions (max. 300-400 words per response):
   1. Please describe your lived experience of migrating to Australia as a gay or bisexual man, or your understanding of the migration experience for others in this community. In your response, you may wish to include how you established your life in Australia, as well as any successes or challenges you experienced along the way.
   2. Please describe your knowledge of the Australian healthcare system, particularly in relation to HIV and STIs. You may include your understanding of testing, treatment, prevention, and how people can access these services.

• Please describe your interpersonal skills. In your response, tell us how you communicate with others, how you build friendships or social networks, and how you support or influence people in your community; and

3. Your Resume (max. 3 pages) outlining any current and previous employment and training. Be sure to include your Education History and any Formal Qualifications, Major / Minor Study Fields, Honours and Publications, and Work Experience (including Paid Jobs, Internships, and Volunteer work).

DOWNLOAD: POSITION DESCRIPTION

Applications Close: Sunday, 30 November 2025

We are grounded in the belief that diversity is our strength, our differentiator, and at the core of who we are and what we do. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we encourage applications from people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and LGBTQ people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse, migrant and refugee backgrounds, and LGBTQ people of colour.

Disability Community Leadership Project

ACON’s Disability Community Leadership Project builds the capacity of disabled LGBTQ+ people who are representing, working with, or advocating for their communities. This innovative project recognises that leadership in LGBTQ+ disability communities brings unique rewards and challenges that require targeted peer support and connection.

Designed and delivered by people who are both LGBTQ+ and disabled, this project centres lived experience whilst providing professional development opportunities that are truly disability-affirming and LGBTQ+ culturally responsive.

What We Offer

The project provides three streams of support:

Professional Coaching
One-on-one disability-affirming coaching sessions that honour participants lived experiences and goals, providing personalised support for their leadership journey.

Peer Networking
A dedicated peer group where participants can share experiences, strategies, and support in an affirming environment, building lasting connections with other LGBTQ+ disability leaders.

Skills Development
Targeted training and workshops designed specifically for and by LGBTQ+ people with disability, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within our communities.

This project is for LGBTQ+ people with disability living in NSW who are:

• Currently in formal or informal leadership roles
• Volunteering within LGBTQ+ and/or disability communities
• Advocating for change and community development
• Building their capacity to take on leadership roles and responsibilities

Applications are now closed due to high demand. For enquiries or further information, please email disability@acon.org.au

NDIS Guide for LGBTQ+ People

Is the NDIS Right for You?

Your NDIS Application

Your NDIS Application was Successful – What Next?

Your NDIS Application was Unsuccessful – What Next?

Self Care, Facing Stress and Anxiety

Family, Friends and Allies

Language Used

Useful Links

ACON would like to thank all the LGBTQ+ people with disability whose lived experiences have shaped this information.

A special thanks to those who shared their skills and experiences with us during the research and design phase, including our wonderful advisory group, and those who trusted us to share their experiences on film.

This toolkit was produced by ACON with support of People with Disability Australia, funded by the National Disability Insurance Agency through the ILC grants scheme.

Project Support Officer – First Nations Health Programs

Ever wondered how to use your skills to improve LGBTQ+SB Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people’s health outcomes?

• We are on the lookout for an enthusiastic and motivated person to help support the development, delivery and evaluation of health promotion programs and community initiatives for LGBTQ+ Sistergirl and Brotherboy Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
• Working in collaboration with ACON’s Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence team to develop and facilitate workshops which are focused on technology facilitated abuse affecting LGBTQ+SB Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

What’s the First Nations Health Programs team you say?

The First Nations Health Programs team is a state funded team that develops, delivers, and evaluates a range of health promotion programs and initiatives for LGBTQ+SB Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, with a particular focus on sexual health and HIV prevention.

You will be working in collaboration with ACON’s Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence team to assist in the creation and facilitation of workshops on technology facilitated abuse, including for LGBTQ+SB Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Tell me more!

• This is a great opportunity to join the First Nations Health Programs team at ACON and support the life-saving work being done.
• You will be working as part of a supportive and committed team within ACON’s HIV and Sexual Health The HIV and Sexual Health Division aims to prevent the transmission of HIV, improve the quality of life for those living with HIV, and improve the sexual health outcomes of LGBTQ+SB people and priority population groups within the LGBTQ+SB communities.

Ok, so what’s the role?

This is a great opportunity if you are starting your career and are passionate about community engagement and improving health outcomes for LGBTQ+SB Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities.

You will:

• Assist in the development of the content of technology facilitated abuse workshops and resources tailored for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander LGBTQ+SB peoples and communities.
• Assist in the facilitation of these workshops and also the general technology facilitated abuse workshops, both in person and online.
• Support the project work being done in the First Nations Health Program team.

Who are we looking for?:

• Someone who is passionate about supporting the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+SB Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities.
• Please note that this is an identified position for an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a colourful, nurturing, and fun workplace. Our employees and volunteers are the foundation for our ongoing effectiveness and for our capacity to deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

What’s the remuneration and working details?: 

Salary:                 $68,846 FTE Gross per-annum, PLUS Superannuation and Leave Loading ($41,307.60 for 3 days / week).

Location:            ACON’s Gadigal lands/Sydney Office, with flexible working options (away from the office).

Hours:                 Part-Time, 3 days / week (42 hrs / fortnight) on a 2-year fixed term contract with the possibility of extension.

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.

How can I find out more details and apply?: 

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply to join our team and help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By joining us, you will be part of a mission to create a healthier and more inclusive community.

This is an identified position for an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are also from CALD backgrounds, with disabilities, and of all genders to apply We’d love someone who has experience already in this area but people at all levels of experience are absolutely welcome to apply.

For more information on the role, please contact Jade Parker, Acting Manager – Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence, via email at jparker.

All applications must include:

1. Your completed ACON Employment Application Form – with all the details filled in where requested;
2. Your Resume (max. 3 pages); and
3. Your Cover Letter with responses to these 3 questions (300-400 words):

DOWNLOAD: POSITION DESCRIPTION

Applications close: Sunday 16 November 2025

We are grounded in the belief that diversity is our strength, our differentiator, and at the core of who we are and what we do. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we encourage applications from people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and LGBTQ people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse, migrant and refugee backgrounds, and LGBTQ people of colour.

Care Coordinator/Counsellor – Sexual, Domestic & Family Violence Services (Hunter/Sydney)

Do you believe in building safer, healthier futures for LGBTQ+ communities impacted by sexual, domestic and family violence? At ACON, you’ll be part of a bold, community-driven organisation at the forefront of health and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ people.

• We’re looking for a passionate and skilled practitioner to join our Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence (SDFV) Care Coordination/Counselling team and provide critical support to LGBTQ+ people experiencing, escaping and recovering from violence and abuse.
• This isn’t just another care coordination and counselling role, it’s a chance to help shape how sexual, domestic and family violence services truly meet the needs of LGBTQ+ people.
• Part-time (42 hours per fortnight) role based in our Awabakal/Hunter office.

What’s the Sexual, Domestic & Family Violence (SDFV) Service?

The SDFV team focuses on trauma-informed, culturally safe, client-led, short-term interventions for LGBTQ+ people experiencing, escaping or recovering from sexual, domestic and/or family violence.

We support LGBTQ+ people through counselling, case coordination, safety planning, advocacy, and referrals. We work to reduce barriers, challenge stigma, and strengthen pathways so that LGBTQ+ people experiencing violence can access the right support, at the right time.

Ok, so what’s the role?

As the Care Coordinator/Counsellor – SDFV Services, you will:

• Provide trauma-informed counselling and care coordination to LGBTQ+ people experiencing and recovering from violence.
• Support clients through safety planning, case management, and system navigation.
• Build collaborative relationships with external services and advocate for inclusive responses for LGBTQ+ communities.
• Contribute to service development and sector capacity building by feeding back community needs, trends, and best practice approaches.

Who are we looking for?

• Someone experienced and qualified in Psychology, Counselling, Social Work, or a related field, and current registration with an appropriate professional body (e.g. AASW, AHPRA) where required.
• A person knowledgeable about sexual, domestic, and family violence, with an understanding of the drivers, impacts, and complexities of SDFV, and particularly how they affect LGBTQ+ people and communities.
• A compassionate, trauma-informed and strengths-based person, who is committed to working alongside people with lived experience of violence.
• Someone with strong care coordination and counselling skills, and the ability to balance empathy with professional boundaries.
• An individual who values inclusion and understands the unique barriers faced by LGBTQ+ communities, First Nations peoples, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, and people living with disability.
• An active collaborator who can also take initiative and work independently.

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a colourful, nurturing, and fun workplace. Our employees and volunteers are the foundation for our ongoing effectiveness and for our capacity to deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

We provide a flexible and supportive working environment. You’ll be part of the Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence team in the Peer and Client Services Division, a highly varied team providing multi-disciplinary care, including counselling, peer support, and home-based care.

What’s the remuneration and working details?

Salary:           $93,053.00 to $95,055.00 per-annum FTE (Gross Salary, PLUS Superannuation and Leave Loading) [$51.128 – $52.228/hr + Super + LL].

Location:      Awabakal/Hunter or Gadigal land/Sydney office, with flexible working options a possibility (away from the office).

Hours:          Part-time (42 hours per fortnight).

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of benefits and entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.

How can I find out more details and apply?

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply to join our team and help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By joining us, you will be part of a mission to create a healthier and more inclusive community.

We’d love someone who has experience already in this area but people at all levels of experience are absolutely welcome to apply. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from CALD backgrounds, people with disabilities, and people of all genders to apply.

For more information on the role, please contact Maddy Liiv, Team Leader, Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Services via email at mliiv@acon.org.au.

Your ONLINE APPLICATION must include:

1. Your completed ACON Employment Application Form with all the details filled in where requested; attaching your:
   1. Cover Letter (max. 3 pages) outlining how the position aligns with your Personal Values and Interests, and how your Skills and Experience meet the Essential Selection Criteria in the Position Description; and
   2. Resume (max. 2 pages) outlining any current and previous employment and training. Be sure to include your Education History and any Formal Qualifications, Major/Minor Study Fields, Honours and Publications, and Work Experience (including Paid Jobs, Internships, and Volunteer work).

DOWNLOAD: POSITION DESCRIPTION

Applications Close: Sunday, 23 November 2025

We are grounded in the belief that diversity is our strength, our differentiator, and at the core of who we are and what we do. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we encourage applications from people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and LGBTQ people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse, migrant and refugee backgrounds, and LGBTQ people of colour.

Team Leader, Client Services (Hunter)

What’s ACON’s Peer and Client Services?

• The Peer and Client Services division works alongside LGBTQ+ people to support their health and wellbeing through one-on-one or group interventions. Our community-led service offerings bring together a deep understanding of LGBTQ+ communities and meaningful, tailored support. Whether through peer work, counselling, care coordination or group work we create safe, affirming spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported.
• We are looking for someone to join our Hunter team and play a vital role in supporting our care coordinators/counsellors.

Ok, so what’s the role?

ACON provides services to people living with (PLHIV), affected by or at risk of HIV, and to sexually and/or gender diverse people in NSW that are aged 18 or over. This position is responsible for:

1. The line supervision and support of ACON’s funded counselling services, and care coordination team to ensure the highest quality counselling support to PLHIV, and to sexuality and gender diverse people.
2. Lead and support team functions related to service quality and performance, including monitoring and reporting on KPIs, contributing to continuous quality improvement initiatives, facilitating team meetings, supporting staff through the Learning & Development framework, and coordinating Professional Development Processes (PDPs) to ensure alignment with clinical standards and organisational goals.
3. Managing a small counselling/care coordination caseload using a short-term, solution-focused counselling approach to clients presenting with a range of mental health needs relating to HIV, gender and sexuality, mental health and substance support as well as ageing and domestic and family violence.

Who are we looking for?

This positions main responsibilities are:

• Plan, schedule, deliver and evaluate ACON’s counselling and care coordination services to achieve established goals and objectives in line with ACON’s Business and Strategic Plans.
• Ensure these services are delivered within ACON’s protocols and policies.
• Provide regular line supervision and de-briefing support (as required) to your team of care coordinator/counsellors.
• Work alongside the Peer Work Team Leaders to case conference high risk or immediate need clients.
• Contribute to regular Peer and Client Service Team Leader meetings to best identify ways of meeting community needs and supporting the sustainability and wellbeing of the overall Hunter Peer and Client Services team.
• Liaise with all teams within Peer and Client Services to ensure referrals and intakes are completed ensuring smooth and efficient allocation of clients to the most appropriate service stream.
• Support care coordinator/counsellors to utilise a range of best practice strategies within ACON’s model of care, including effective care and support strategies for clients living with or impacted by HIV.
• Consult on Counselling and Care Coordination Services policies and procedures as needed.
• Ensure you team collects and records high quality client information in the electronic client record database.
• Actively lead team meetings and participate in broader unit meetings, general staff meetings, quality improvement and professional development strategies.
• Continually enhance networks with primary health care, agencies and external service providers to ensure that all clients are provided with a comprehensive range of options and referrals.
• Provide short-term solutions focused counselling and care coordination to a caseload of between 6-10 clients of PLHIV, and people of diverse sexuality and gender. This includes providing referrals to appropriate external health and community services including specialist counselling, legal and social support.
• Maintain a professional standard of behaviour and the confidentiality of all information pertaining to clients and their families.
• Perform other duties to assist with the work of the unit as requested by the Manager (or designate).

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a colourful, nurturing, and fun workplace. Our employees and volunteers are the foundation for our ongoing effectiveness and for our capacity to deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

What’s the remuneration and working details? 

Salary:                 $112,257 per-annum FTE (Gross Salary, PLUS Superannuation and Leave Loading)

Location:            ACON’s Awabakal / Hunter Office in Newcastle with some flexible working options a possibility (away from the office).

Hours:                Full time, 70 hours per fortnight on a 12 Month fixed term  contract with the possibility of extension.

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.

How can I find out more details and apply? 

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply to join our team and help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By joining us, you will be part of a mission to create a healthier and more inclusive community.

We’d love someone who has experience already in this area but people at all levels of experience are absolutely welcome to apply. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from CALD backgrounds, people with disabilities, and people of all genders to apply.

For more information on the role, please contact Louise Dunne, Regional Operations Manager, via email at ldunne@acon.org.au or (02) 49627700.

Your ONLINE APPLICATION must include:

1. Your completed ACON Employment Application Form with all the details filled in where requested; attaching your:
   1. Cover Letter outlining how the position aligns with your Personal Values and Interests, and how your Skills and Experience meet the Essential Selection Criteria in the Position Description; and
   2. Resume outlining any current and previous employment and training. Be sure to include your Education History and any Formal Qualifications, Major / Minor Study Fields, Honours and Publications, and Work Experience (including Paid Jobs, Internships, and Volunteer work).

DOWNLOAD: POSITION DESCRIPTION

Applications Close: Sunday 9 Nov 2025

We are grounded in the belief that diversity is our strength, our differentiator, and at the core of who we are and what we do. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we encourage applications from people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and LGBTQ people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse, migrant and refugee backgrounds, and LGBTQ people of colour.

Manager, Policy Advocacy and Research

Keen to use your policy, advocacy, program design/delivery, and funding skills for good? Want to leap into a career that supports the health and wellbeing of the LGBTQ+ community?

• We are on the lookout for someone to join the Policy Strategy and Research team in a key leadership role.
• Contribute to ACON’s policy and advocacy efforts across the NSW HIV sector.
• Enhance the profile of LGBTQ health.

Ok, so what’s the role?

The Manager, Policy Advocacy and Research utilises a strong understanding of HIV and LGBTQ health and the strategic environment in which ACON operates to identify and advocate for public policy reform and assist the organisation to adjust its organisational strategy.

The position is responsible for developing and managing ACON’s engagement with, and participation in, policy, research and grants development processes. The Manager facilitates an integrated approach to policy and research that builds ACON’s evidence base to understand our communities’ needs better, design effective programs and advocate for policy change to improve health outcomes. The role is responsible for developing and maintaining key strategic relationships with key government stakeholders and key decision-makers.

This position works closely with the Manager, Strategy and Impact to ensure that ACON’s operations and external relationships are aligned. The position contributes to organisation-wide planning processes, determining strategic priorities for the Board and senior leaders and works to build organisational capability to design and deliver responses that make a positive impact for our communities.

The Manager, Policy Advocacy and Research leads a small team in developing and implementing high-impact policy, research, advocacy and grants development initiatives to achieve the goals and objectives of ACON’s Impact Strategy, funding agreements and annual business plans, including the following:

• Lead and develop ACON’s policy and advocacy strategies to respond to our communities’ health and wellbeing needs and government and system reform.
• Leads ACON’s engagement with government, agencies and key stakeholders to achieve ACON’s impact strategies.
• Strengthen and maintain ACON’s strategic relationships with key government, research, legal and community stakeholders to achieve ACON’s impact strategies.
• Coordinate ACON’s research engagement programs to strengthen key partnerships, build the evidence base to achieve our strategic impacts, and manage our research ethics review processes, including promoting and disseminating key research.
• Contribute to ACON’s strategic and business planning, including the development and monitoring of annual plans aligned with ACON’s impact strategies.
• Manage the development of key outcome indicators, impact measures and key performance metrics to monitor progress of achieving ACON’s impact strategies.
• Provide high-level advice to the Board, Executive and Senior Leadership Team on emerging strategic issues and business opportunities to achieve ACON’s impact strategies.

Who are we looking for?

• Someone with a demonstrated understanding of policy, advocacy, program design and delivery, and funding processes.
• A person with the ability to lead organisational change and capability development projects, preferably focused on performance, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Someone with a proven ability to create and sustain effective relationships and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.
• An exceptional communicator with exceptional interpersonal skills, including advanced written and verbal communication, high-level presentation skills, and the ability to represent organisational and community interests.
• A person with the demonstrated ability to manage a team working across multiple projects and deliverables with competing deadlines; who can work both independently and collaboratively, with strong organisational skills and the capacity to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Someone with an understanding of and commitment to ACON’s 2025-2030 Impact Strategy and other key strategic and business plans; and to ACON’s communities, including all LGBTQ people and people living with HIV.

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a colourful, nurturing, and fun workplace. Our employees and volunteers are the foundation for our ongoing effectiveness and for our capacity to deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

What’s the remuneration and working details?

Salary:           $120,000 per-annum (Gross Salary, PLUS Superannuation and Leave Loading).

Location:      ACON’s Gadigal land / Sydney Office, with flexible working options a possibility (away from the office).

Hours:          Full-Time (76 hours per fortnight) on a minimum 6-month fixed-term contract (with the possibility of extension).

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of benefits and entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.

How can I find out more details and apply?

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply to join our team and help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By joining us, you will be part of a mission to create a healthier and more inclusive community.

We’d love someone who has experience already in this area but people at all levels of experience are absolutely welcome to apply. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from CALD backgrounds, people with disabilities, and people of all genders to apply.

For more information on the role, please contact Brent Mackie, Director, Policy Strategy and Research, via email at BMackie@acon.org.au or (02) 9206 2000.

Your ONLINE APPLICATION must include:

1. Your completed ACON Employment Application Form with all the details filled in where requested; attaching your:
   1. Cover Letter (max. 4 pages) outlining how the position aligns with your Personal Values and Interests, and how your Skills and Experience meet the Essential Selection Criteria in the Position Description; and
   2. Resume (max. 4 pages) outlining any current and previous employment and training. Be sure to include your Education History and any Formal Qualifications, Major / Minor Study Fields, Honours and Publications, and Work Experience (including Paid Jobs, Internships, and Volunteer work).

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Applications Close: Sunday 12 October 2025

We are grounded in the belief that diversity is our strength, our differentiator, and at the core of who we are and what we do. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we encourage applications from people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and LGBTQ people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse, migrant and refugee backgrounds, and LGBTQ people of colour.

Manager, Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence

Do you want to build safer, healthier futures for LGBTQ+ communities impacted by sexual, domestic and family violence? At ACON, you’ll be part of a bold, community-driven organisation at the forefront of health and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ people. Lead our innovative work in sexual, domestic and family violence and help shape the way our services and programs truly meet the needs of LGBTQ+ people. 

We’re looking for a passionate and skilled manager to lead our new integrated Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence (SDFV) team that brings together ACON’s specialist frontline services and with ACON’s other initiatives addressing sexual, domestic, and family violence experienced by LGBTQ+ people. This is a full-time role based in the Gadigal/Sydney office.

What’s the Sexual, domestic and family violence team?

The Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Team is part of ACON’s Peer and Client Services division. The Peer and Client Services Division works alongside LGBTQ+ people to support their health and wellbeing through one-on-one or group interventions. SDFV Team is responsible for specialist LGBTQ+ SDFV Care Coordination/Counselling, SDFV group work, Say It Out Loud (a national online resource), Proud Partners (behaviour change), the sexual violence consult service and other SDFV initiatives.

Ok, so what’s the role?

The Manager, SDFV is responsible for overseeing ACON’s specialist LGBTQ+ SDFV services and programs. The Manager will ensure trauma-informed, culturally safe, affirming and evidence-based approaches are embedded across all aspects of the team’s work, and will advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming responses to SDFV across NSW.

You will be responsible for:

Program and Service Management: 

• Oversee delivery of care coordination/counselling services, group programs, consultation services and other health promotion activity.
• Ensure services and programs are trauma-informed, intersectional, and responsive to diverse community needs.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy:

• Build and maintain strategic relationships and represent ACON and the needs of LGBTQ+ people in key SDFV environment and advocate for inclusive policy, system and service responses.

Research, Policy & Evaluation: 

• Support and contribute to initiatives to strengthen the evidence base on responses to LGBTQ+ SDFV. Ensure program activities are informed by current research and community co-design – monitor and report on program outcomes, budgets, and impact and focus on continuous improvement.

Operational Leadership:

• Lead the strategic development of ACON’s LGBTQ+ SDFV work and ensure alignment with ACON’s Impact Strategy, Business and Action Plans, and relevant NSW SDFV strategies. Actively participate in ACON’s leadership forums and the leadership group of Peer and Client Services.

Team Management:

• Manage and support a multidisciplinary team – foster a collaborative, inclusive, and values-driven team culture.

Who are we looking for?

• An experienced leader who can build a positive team culture and lead through change.
• Proven experience in the design and delivery of direct services and/or health promotion programs addressing sexual, domestic, and family violence.
• An ability to apply trauma-informed, intersectional, and human rights-based approaches to service and program delivery
• Proven ability to sustain effective relationships and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders including funders.
• Experience in developing funding submissions and managing budgets, contracts, and reporting requirements.
• High-level communication skills, including report writing and public representation.
• Understanding of and commitment to ACON’s communities and strategic plan

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a colourful, nurturing, and fun workplace. Our employees and volunteers are the foundation for our ongoing effectiveness and for our capacity to deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

We provide a flexible and supportive working environment. You’ll lead the SDFV Team within the Peer and Client Services Division. Our community-led service offerings bring together a deep understanding of LGBTQ+ communities and meaningful, tailored support.

What’s the remuneration and working details? 

Salary:            $141,000 (Total remuneration Package per annum, Inclusive of Superannuation and Leave Loading).

Location:       ACON’s Gadigal land / Sydney Office, with flexible working options a possibility (away from the office).

Hours:           Full-Time (76 hours per fortnight) on a 2-year fixed term contract

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of benefits and entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.

How can I find out more details and apply?

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply to join our team and help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By joining us, you will be part of a mission to create a healthier and more inclusive community.

We’d love someone who has experience already in this area but people at all levels of experience are absolutely welcome to apply. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from CALD backgrounds, people with disabilities, and people of all genders to apply.

For more information on the role, please contact Sophie Potter, Director, Peer and Client Services, via email at spotter@acon.org.au

If this sounds like the position and organisation you’ve been looking for, find out how to apply at www.acon.org.au/jobs.

Your ONLINE APPLICATION must include:

1. Your completed ACON Employment Application Form with all the details filled in where requested; attaching your:
   1. Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) outlining how the position aligns with your Personal Values and Interests, and how your Skills and Experience meet the Essential Selection Criteria in the Position Description; and
   2. Resume (max. 3 pages) outlining any current and previous employment and training. Be sure to include your Education History and any Formal Qualifications, Major / Minor Study Fields, Honours and Publications, and Work Experience (including Paid Jobs, Internships, and Volunteer work).

Applications Close: Sunday 5^th October

POSITION DESCRIPTION

We are grounded in the belief that diversity is our strength, our differentiator, and at the core of who we are and what we do. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we encourage applications from people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and LGBTQ people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse, migrant and refugee backgrounds, and LGBTQ people of colour.

Peer Worker (Trans Mental Health and Wellbeing) Northern Rivers (Part Time)

Bundjalung Land / Lismore Office, 3 days a week.

• We are on the lookout for someone to join the Client Services team and play a vital role in our Trans Mental Health and Wellbeing program.
• This position has come about through funding to support the mental health and wellbeing of trans and gender diverse people (including people questioning their gender).

Ok, so what’s the role?

The Peer Worker (Trans Mental Health and Wellbeing) uses lived experience to guide the provision of peer navigation, peer support, mentoring and advocacy to trans community members. The position sits within and works closely with the broader ACON Client Services team to deliver trauma-informed, wholistic person-centred support to clients.

You will be required to use your experience openly, appropriately and effectively to build professional relationships with the people you support. You will be providing support to people living throughout NSW face-to-face in the ACON office and via telehealth. Due to the nature of the role, you will be supporting individuals that are experiencing mental ill health, distress, suicidal ideation or suicidal crisis.

You will:

• Provide peer navigation, peer support, mentoring and advocacy to trans and gender diverse people, including people who are questioning their gender, and trans people who are experiencing mental ill health, present in distress or are experiencing a suicidal crisis.
• Use a strengths-based and person-led approach to help clients navigate to gender affirming care and support, and if required to support them to meet their recovery journey goals.
• Support clients to strengthen their self-management skills through self-directed and shared learning experiences.
• Work collaboratively with the broader clinical, non-clinical and health promotion teams within ACON to ensure that the broad psycho-social support needs of clients are being met.
• Maintain timely client records by documenting client work in ACON’s electronic client record management system.
• Collect required client data to enable reporting to funders and service evaluation, including demographics, client outcome and client experience data.
• Conduct outreach support (as required) following ACON policies and procedures – this could include attending appointments or conducting home visits with clients to provide advocacy and support.

Who are we looking for?

• Someone with the ability to reflect thoughtfully upon one’s personal lived experience of being trans or gender diverse, and an understanding of which elements may be common to other trans people, with the intention of providing peer navigation and peer support.
• A person with lived experience of, and recovery from, psychological distress, mental ill health, and a willingness to share your story purposefully to support the mental health of others.
• Someone with at least 6-months work in a peer position or volunteering with LGBTQ+ community members.
• A person with a strong commitment to, and understanding of, trauma-informed recovery-based practice.
• Someone who works independently and collaboratively in a team, reporting regularly to be supported.
• A person with well-developed communication skills and demonstrated experience using MS Office.

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a colourful, nurturing, and fun workplace. Our employees and volunteers are the foundation for our ongoing effectiveness and for our capacity to deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

We provide a flexible and supportive work environment as part of the Client Services Unit within the Community Health Division. A highly focused team responsible for delivering trauma-informed, wholistic person-centred support to clients.

The ‘Nuts & Bolts’

Salary:           $75,625 – $85,614 (Gross FTE per-annum, PLUS Superannuation and Leave Loading) [$41.552 – $47.040/ hr + Super + LL].  – commensurate with skills, qualifications, and experience.

Location:      ACON’s Bundjalung land / Lismore Office, with flexible working options a possibility (away from the office).

Hours:          Part-Time (42 hours per fortnight) on an 8 Month fixed term contract (with the possibility of extension).

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of benefits and entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.

Still reading?

If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply to join our team and help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By joining us, you will be part of a mission to create a healthier and more inclusive community.

We’d love someone who has experience already in this area but people at all levels of experience are absolutely welcome to apply. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from CALD backgrounds, people with disabilities, and people of all genders to apply.

For more information on the role, please contact Kate Airmid, Team Leader, Peer Workers, via email at kairmid@acon.org.au or (02) 4962 7700.

Your ONLINE APPLICATION must include:

1. Your completed ACON Employment Application Form with all the details filled in where requested; attaching your:
   1. Cover Letter (max. 4 pages) outlining how the position aligns with your Personal Values and Interests, and how your Skills and Experience meet the Essential Selection Criteria in the Position Description; and
   2. Resume (max. 4 pages) outlining any current and previous employment and training. Be sure to include your Education History and any Formal Qualifications, Major / Minor Study Fields, Honours and Publications, and Work Experience (including Paid Jobs, Internships, and Volunteer work).

Applications Close: Wednesday 8 October 2025

POSITION DESCRIPTION

We are grounded in the belief that diversity is our strength, our differentiator, and at the core of who we are and what we do. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we encourage applications from people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and LGBTQ people from culturally, linguistically and ethnically diverse, migrant and refugee backgrounds, and LGBTQ people of colour.