Relationship Lead - Direct Outreach

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The Relationship Lead Direct Outreach is a fixed term, full-time onsite role with the Survivor Experiences Service at DIA in Wellington. You’ll build trust with Survivors not connected to government services, engaging individuals and communities to learn about and access the Service, with a focus on Māori, Pacific Peoples, Disabled and Deaf Survivors. You’ll work with internal teams to ensure a smooth transition and deliver culturally responsive, trauma-informed outreach. Requirements include direct outreach or social services experience, strong relationship-building, clear communication, problem solving, and the ability to work independently in ambiguous environments. Apply online by 5pm 31 August 2026; NZ work rights required. Salary $109,697–$121,885. Questions to Stephen Turnock.

About Us | Mō mātou    

The Survivor Experiences Service provides a safe, supportive and confidential space for Survivors of abuse in care to share their experiences as part of their healing journey. The Service also supports Survivors to access and understand their care records, helping to fill gaps in personal histories and provide greater understanding of past experiences.

Hosted by Te Tari Taiwhenua (Department of Internal Affairs) and overseen by an independent board, the Service brings together survivor experiences to deepen understanding of abuse in care and inform efforts to prevent future harm. Survivors may also be connected with other support services, ensuring they receive the assistance they need throughout their journey.

The role | Te tūnga   

This role is about building trust with Survivors who may not be connected to government services or community organisations. You'll work directly with individuals and communities, creating safe opportunities for people to learn about the Survivor Experiences Service and supporting them to engage when they feel ready.

You'll spend time connecting with Māori, Pacific Peoples, Disabled and Deaf Survivors, meeting people where they are and helping reduce barriers to accessing support. Working closely with internal teams, you'll ensure Survivors experience a smooth, supported transition into the Service. This is a role where patience, resilience and relationship-building create meaningful change for people who may have never sought support before.

This opportunity is Fixed Term to June 2028.

What you bring | Nōu te rourou

• Experience working directly with individuals and communities in outreach, engagement, social services or a similar people-focused environment 
• Exceptional relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish trust and engage respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds 
• An understanding of the needs of Māori, Pacific Peoples, Disabled and Deaf communities, with a commitment to culturally responsive and accessible practice 
• The confidence to work independently, adapt to changing situations and navigate complex or ambiguous environments
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with a practical approach to helping people access support 
• A genuine commitment to trauma-informed, survivor-centred practice and improving outcomes for Survivors

For you | Mōu 

At the Department of Internal Affairs, we are committed to offering a collaborative and innovative culture where your perspective and ideas will be welcomed. We want our people to thrive within a culture of best practice, while being able to set and achieve goals and being encouraged to challenge the status quo.  

To learn more about the diverse, important mahi we do at the Department and see why we're a great place to work check out our website https://www.dia.govt.nz/ 

Benefits - About Internal Affairs - Careers with us - Benefits - dia.govt.nz 

The appointing range for this role is $109,697 – $121,885. 

To review the full job description, please click here. 

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono 

We are unable to accept applications via email. Please click the apply button to submit your application. 

We're committed to ensuring our application process is accessible to everyone. Please let us know if there is any support, we can provide to ensure the process is accessible to you.  

Applications for this role close 5pm, Monday 31 August 2026. Please also note that you must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this role. 

If you have any questions, please email Stephen Turnock - [email protected]