Research and Communications Lead

Join our New Research Unit!

Are you passionate about using research and communication to drive real change in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities?

Do you thrive in roles where data, storytelling and service development come together to strengthen community wellbeing?

Gindaja are seeking a Research and Communications Lead to join our newly established Special Projects Unit (SPU) — a role designed for someone who thrives at the intersection of research, service development, data, digital communication and organisational capability.

• Key position within an industry leading Indigenous Community Controlled AOD service

• Permanent Part-Time (3-4 days per week)

• Hybrid work arrangements negotiable

• Competitive salary packaging

• Leave loading, mobile phone and laptop computer

About Gindaja

Gindaja Treatment and Healing Indigenous Corporation is a leader in the Indigenous alcohol and drug rehabilitation space across Queensland.  We are an innovative organisation committed to continuous quality improvement and evidence-based practice. We value new ideas, creative solutions and traditional ways of learning and healing.

Gindaja has 3 service sites in the beautiful, culturally rich Aboriginal community of Yarrabah, situated on the traditional country of Gunggandji peoples. Yarrabah is a scenic 40-minute drive from Southside Cairns, through the magnificent rainforest of FNQ.

About the Role

The Research and Communications Lead plays a key role in driving innovation, improving performance and supporting capability across Gindaja’s Treatment Services. You will work closely with the Special Projects Manager and collaborate with line managers, staff teams and external partners to:

• Strengthen how services are designed, documented, monitored and evaluated

• Undertake research, data development and analysis across multiple programs

• Oversee and grow Gindaja’s social media and digital presence

• Help translate research into practical tools, workshops and community education

This is a role for someone who enjoys variety and meaningful collaboration — and who wants their work to directly support community wellbeing.

About You

You bring both technical capability and innovative ideas, with a strong commitment to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. You will have:

• Qualifications in research, community development, communications or similar

• Experience in social research, service review and evaluation

• High-level IT skills, including social media platforms and digital communications

• Strong data skills, including client data management software

• Excellent communication skills across diverse stakeholders

If you’re passionate about strengthening Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes, translating evidence into practice, and shaping clear, culturally safe communication across an organisation, this role offers a rare opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Why Join Gindaja?

Gindaja offers a supportive and rewarding work environment with a range of exceptional benefits, including:

• Flexible leave options (TOIL and paid Christmas break)

• Competitive salary packaging and leave loading

• Access to staff wellbeing options and a financial incentive program, 

• Fully funded attendance at key industry national and international conferences

• Robust professional development and training opportunities

Please note: Recruitment for this position will be on a rolling basis, with shortlisting and interviews taking place as applications are received. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people as well as those with past lived experience are encouraged to apply.

See our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GindajaHealing or visit our website: www.gindaja.org.au

For further information about the position call Special Projects Senior Manager, Kathy Desmond on 04•• ••• 206. For a Position Description and application details please contact our HR team on 07 •••• •800 or email: ••••@gindaja.org.

Applications close: Monday 21st September 2026