Respectful University Prevention Specialist

The Role 

As the Respectful University Prevention Specialist, you will lead the delivery of impactful prevention programs that embed a culture of safety, respect and inclusion across a diverse university community. 

In this role you will:  

• Design, coordinate and evaluate evidence-informed, trauma-informed prevention education programs that address gender-based violence and promote respectful behaviours across the University 
• Deliver engaging education and training and awareness activities to diverse cohorts including students, staff and leaders, tailored to different audiences and contexts 
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with students, staff, and stakeholders, including those with lived experience, to co-design and enhance initiatives 
• Lead and support a team of Peer Leader and Lived Experience Student Consultants, providing day-to-day leadership, coaching and coordination 
• Oversee the planning and delivery of awareness activities, campaigns and engagement initiatives that drive cultural change and prevent harm 
• Contribute to reporting, policy development and compliance activities aligned with legislative and sector requirements, including the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence 

This 2-year fixed-term position is full-time at a Higher Education Worker level 8 and is based at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal Land) 

How will you inspire us? 

You are a relational and values-driven professional with a strong grasp of complex legislation and policy, who creates respectful environments and empowers others through their work. 

You will have: 

• Demonstrated experience in the development, coordination, delivery and evaluation of primary prevention or education programs, and a demonstrated understanding of evidence informed, trauma informed practice 
• Demonstrated experience coordinating programs, projects or initiatives in a complex organisation, including responsibility for reporting, data collection and compliance activities. 
• Strong organisational skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines. 
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and bring together people from different areas to participate in School/Division or University wide initiatives.   
• Experience in the higher education sector or community services environment. (Desirable)

About our University 

Respectful University forms part of the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Engagement and Equity) at the University of Newcastle. Under the guidance of the University's Looking Ahead 2030 Strategic Plan the Office highlights the organisation's values of engagement, equity and excellence. Through these strategies, the University is committed to being a leading advocate and driving force for excellence and equity in higher education and supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of its students and staff. 

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead 2030 Strategic Plan outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our University. 

What We Offer  

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. 

These Include  

• The remuneration for this position is from $116,596 - $136,030 p.a. + superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience 
• Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy) 
• 17% superannuation and salary packaging. 
• Additional University holidays, generous leave entitlements, and wellbeing programs. 
• Discounts on health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel, and more. 
• A range of support and wellbeing programs. 

For more information on benefits and conditions, please follow this link. 

Your next steps 

Important information before you apply: 

• If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application. 
• Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit. 

Your application must include: 

• Your resume. 
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity. 
• A statement addressing each of the essential criteria listed below the ‘how will you inspire us – you will have:’ heading in this advert using an example for each to demonstrate (these may differ slightly from the Position Description). 

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document should not exceed 3 pages. 

We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.  

We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process. 

Our assessment process 

Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process: 

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process) 
• Referee checks 
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role 

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive. 

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes. 

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University. 

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance – it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable. 

Contact Us 

For specific position enquiries, please contact Jamie-Lee Costa, Senior Respectful University Manager on (02) 4348 4308 or via email at jamie-lee.costa@newcastle.edu.au  

Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications. 

Closing date: Monday, 6th July 2026 at 11.59pm AEST 

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you 

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do. 

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. 

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