Justice Research Officer - Catholic Religious Australia

  • Fixed-term parental leave contract – 2 days per week, for 2027

  • Give voice to justice issues through research, writing, advocacy and publications grounded in Catholic Social Teaching

  • Located in historic Mary MacKillop Place, North Sydney

Click here to download the position description for the Justice Research Officer role.

Catholic Religious Australia (CRA) is the representative organisation for the Leaders of more than 150 Religious Institutes across Australia. CRA represents and serves Leaders through a national voice at a time of significant change within the Catholic Church,

Reporting to the National Executive Director, the Justice Research Officer supports CRA and its members through CRA's justice initiatives. This is a parental leave contract, offering an opportunity to make an immediate contribution in a small, collaborative Secretariat team.

This role suits a thoughtful researcher and confident writer with a passion for justice. You will turn evidence into clear advocacy: submissions, media statements, the Just Now publication and social media content that amplify CRA's voice. You will also assist religious institutes with routine safeguarding enquiries.

Key Responsibilities

  • Researching justice issues within the framework of Catholic Social Teaching, and keeping a watching brief on media, key justice dates and Senate inquiries for advocacy opportunities

  • Drafting submissions to parliamentary and other inquiries, letters, and media releases and statements for approval by the National Executive Director and President

  • Researching, writing and producing CRA's periodic justice publication, Just Now

  • Drafting social media posts promoting justice issues, CRA publications, advocacy, submissions and media releases

  • Drafting letters in response to current and emerging issues

Essential Criteria

  • Demonstrated evidence-based research skills, with the ability to evaluate information within a framework of Catholic Social Teaching

  • Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills, with experience producing a newsletter, bulletin or similar to a regular deadline

  • Ability to communicate key messages clearly and persuasively to different audiences

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and working knowledge of various programmes including Mailchimp, Canva, and social media

  • Strong organisational skills, accuracy and attention to detail

  • A passion for justice and advocating for the vulnerable

  • Alignment with the mission and values of the Catholic Church and CRA

Desirable

  • Experience drafting submissions, policy papers or media releases

  • Qualifications or experience in theology, social justice, policy, communications or journalism

  • Familiarity with religious life or Church agencies

Applications

Please direct queries about the role to Taylor Coutinho at ea@catholicreligious.org.au. Applications are to be forwarded to Taylor by Tuesday 1 December 2026.

Your application should include your resume and a cover letter addressing the above essential criteria. Interviews are expected to be held during the week of Monday 7 December 2026. 

CRA is committed to safeguarding all people, particularly children and adults at risk and has a zero-tolerance to abuse.

Only candidates with the right to work permanently in Australia may apply for this position.