Purpose of Role

The Funding and Grants Researcher Volunteer’s role is to search and identify appropriate grants that align with ASCs mission and support our work, as well as contributeto grant writing and conduct background research to provide the evidence for the grants. The researcher works within the Admin Team, liaising with the Program Coordinator and President of the organisation to refine project ideas and develop high quality applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Have regular (preferably fortnightly) meetings with the Program Coordinator and/or President at the centre in Brunswick.
• Conduct research into available grants and other funding opportunities and maintain current grant descriptions.
• Conduct background research to provide the evidence for the grants.
• Manage the grants application process and update grant schedule weekly
• Seek information from funding bodies (philanthropic trusts, government departments, local councils etc), community groups and potential project partners
• Liaise with the Program Coordinator to develop project plans in preparation for grant applications
• Attend community events and social meet ups where possible.
• Be responsible and accountable about your availability.
• Act as a role model and mentor to board members and other members of the organisation.
• Maintain a culturally sensitive attitude and avoid discussing topics related to politics or religion, respecting the conservative Christian background of most of the participants.
• Attend inductions and trainings where possible.
• Record and submit volunteer hours.
• Comply with ASC policies & procedures, identify OHS concerns and communicate these to ASC staff (e.g. report hazards or incidents).
• Keep a record of the sessions and send to program coordinator.
• Other related duties as delegated

Legislative Requirements

• Ensure compliance with relevant policies and legislative requirements such as Occupational Health & Safety (OHS), the Commonwealth Privacy Act and ASC Child Protection Policy.
• Obtain a Working With Children Check and a Police Check before starting your work with ASC.
• Familiarise yourself with relevant policies, procedures and work practices of ASC Selection Criteria
• Graduate degree or continuing graduate program in Humanities, Social Science, International Development, Law, or related field
• Grant writing experience preferred
• Strong research skills
• Ability to work within tight deadlines
• Proficient computer skills: Microsoft Office Suite & 365, excel and google docs
• Ability to be resourceful and to think creatively
• Ability to communicate effectively with people from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds
• A passion for working with refugees.
• Excellent verbal communication, interpersonal skills and facilitation skills.
• Demonstrated flexibility, patience and cross-cultural communication
• Experience working with people from CALD backgrounds.
• Enthusiastic, with the ability to motivate others.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.
• Preferably available fortnightly for meetings on Tuesday for meetings

What volunteers gain from their experience with the Australian Syrian Charity:

• Valuable work experience & training with a respected NGO (non-government organisation) that can be added to your resume.
• Future references for volunteers completing a successful agreed period.
• A full induction and a supportive and friendly working environment.
• The option to attend regular team meetings.
• Become part of a welcoming Syrian community and participate in community events.
• Dedicated Volunteer Coordinator and other staff to support volunteers.
• Arabic coffee, tea, and biscuits!

People of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from refugees and migrants from countries experiencing conflict/humanitarian crises, international students, and people with disabilities.

Please send a resume and a cover letter addressing the above criteria to be considered for the position.