We are the Australian Dental Council (ADC) — an independent, purpose-driven not-for-profit that protects the public by ensuring safe and competent dental care across Australia. We assess and accredit dental practitioners and programs to uphold the highest standards in oral health.
Why work for us?
At the ADC, we know our people are central to our success. We’re committed to creating a workplace that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive, where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully.
We offer opportunities to apply your skills and ideas to work that makes a real impact, while continuing to learn and build your expertise. We also recognise that balance is important, and we support our people to manage work, life and wellbeing with flexibility.
When you join us, you’ll enjoy:
Competitive salary and generous leave (including wellbeing, parental, loyalty, birthday and Christmas leave)
Hybrid working (WFH up to three days per week)
Professional development opportunities
Monthly catered staff events and a fun social club
Modern office in Melbourne CBD, close to public transport
Job Description
About the role
The Policy and Projects Officer support the delivery of policy, research and project initiatives that strengthen the quality and consistency of the ADC’s accreditation processes, including cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This includes undertaking project research and analysis, preparing briefs and policy submissions, and supporting discrete projects from planning through to delivery.
The role works collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders to support best-practice, culturally safe accreditation outcomes.
In practice this means you will:
Build strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders, including First Nations partners.
Support and coordinate stakeholder engagement activities to inform policy and project outcomes.
Research, analyse and prepare high-quality policy papers, briefs and submissions on key issues.
Review data and trends to support evidence-based policy and continuous improvement.
Assist with the planning and delivery of multiple projects, ensuring timelines and priorities are met.
Develop and maintain guidance, tools and resources to support consistent and culturally responsive accreditation practices.
Contribute to organisation-wide initiatives, including the Reconciliation Action Plan and continuous improvement activities.
Desired Skills and Experience
About you
To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate the following selection criteria:
A tertiary qualification in public policy, public health, project management, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience working respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities or organisations.
Experience working collaboratively in a high-performing team, with the demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and timelines
Well-developed written and oral communication skills, with demonstrated experience in writing policy or position statements and reports.
Strong planning and organisational/project management skills.
Proven skills in supporting complex and/or high-profile projects with multiple stakeholders.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant software applications (e.g. Sharepoint, monday.com).
Desirable but not essential:
Familiarity with program accreditation and an awareness of issues relating to the accreditation of health professional education programs.
Experience in the dental sector.
Suitable applicants will be contacted prior to the position closing date.
To apply for this role, please select Apply. Applications must include your resume and a detailed cover letter addressing the selection criteria for this position.
For direct enquiries and a copy of the position description, please contact recruit@adc.org.au
Applications close COB Friday 12 June 2026.
At the ADC, we recognise and value the knowledge, experiences and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff members. We believe diversity strengthens our workplace, and we are committed to cultural safety as a core part of how we work. We strive to provide an environment where Indigenous staff members feel respected, included and supported to share their perspectives and talents.
We are committed to a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, and people with disability.