Lived Experience Advisory Council – Expression of Interest

Background

The Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission (the Commission) is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the Lived Experience Advisory Council (the Council). The Council was established in 2023 under the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022–2032. It brings together people with lived or living experience of domestic, family and sexual violence to help improve systems, services and policies across Australia.

The Council provides advice to the Commission on issues that matter to people with lived experience. Members help identify opportunities for reform and improve how governments and services respond to domestic, family and sexual violence. The Council does not provide crisis support, individual advocacy, or complaint resolution.

Membership

There are 8 positions available on the Council. Members are appointed for a term of up to two years, with the possibility of an extension for a further term.

The Council is made up of people from different backgrounds, communities and experiences. Members are appointed for their individual expertise and lived experience, not as representatives of organisations or community groups.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for people who can:

• Use their lived or living experience to help improve systems and services.
• Share ideas and insights that can support long-term change.
• Work respectfully with people who have different experiences and views.
• Contribute to discussions about policy, services and reform.
• Commit to participating in meetings and Council activities.

Previous experience on an advisory group is helpful but not essential.

Who We Encourage to Apply

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, including:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• People with disability and neurodivergent people.
• People from culturally, linguistically and faith-diverse communities.
• LGBTIQA+SB people.
• Young people and older people.
• People living in regional, rural and remote communities.

Responsibilities

Council members will:

• Attend Council meetings and prepare by reading meeting papers.
• Share insights based on lived, living and learnt experience.
• Work respectfully with other members.
• Help develop advice for the Commission.
• Maintain confidentiality and privacy.
• Support a trauma-informed and culturally respectful environment.

Council Meetings

Timing and Commitment

Members should allow:

• Up to six hours every two months for online meetings and preparation.
• Up to three days for one or two face-to-face meetings each year, including travel where required.
• Around one hour each week for administration tasks.
• You may also can take part in additional project work, consultations or workshops during the year, these activities are optional and offered on an as needed basis.

Format

Most meetings are held online. Face-to-face meetings may be held in different locations around Australia. Support and adjustments are available for members who cannot travel.

Payment and Support

Council members are paid for attending meetings and approved Council activities. Travel and accommodation costs for approved activities are covered by the Commission.

The applicable fee rates are guided by the Remuneration Tribunal (Remuneration and Allowances for Holders of Part-time Public Office Determination (PDF)¹.² Please refer to Part 2 – Section 12 and Part 4 – Daily Fees.

Meeting Day Payments

Non-Meeting Day Payments

The Commission is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and trauma-informed environment. Counselling support, accessibility adjustments and cultural safety supports are available throughout the appointment.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a permanent resident of Australia.
• Have lived or living experience of domestic, family and/or sexual violence in Australia.
• Complete the Self-Reflection Tool and determine that you can participate safely. Be able to commit to the required meeting schedule.

Assessment Process

Applications will be assessed on:

• Your lived or living experience and the insights you can bring.
• Your interest in improving systems, services and community responses.
• Your readiness to participate in Council activities.
• Your ability to contribute positively and respectfully to group discussions.

The Commission will also consider the overall mix of experiences, backgrounds and perspectives across the Council to ensure broad representation.

Selection Process

The selection process may include:

1. Application review.
2. Shortlisting.
3. Interviews.
4. Referee checks.
5. National Police Checks.
6. Final recommendations to the Minister for Social Services.

Expression of Interest

Expressions of Interest open on 20 July 2026 and close on 10 August 2026.

Timeline

• EOI opens: 20 July 2026
• EOI closes: 10 August 2026
• Assessment period: August 2026
• Interviews (if required): August–September 2026
• Referee and police checks: September 2026
• Notification of outcomes: September–October 2026
• Appointments commence: From October 2026

How to apply

More information, including how to apply, is available online

Need Help or Have Questions?

If you need help with your application, require adjustments, or would like more information about the Council, please contact:

Email: Secretariat@dfsvc.gov.au

Phone: 0460 001 750

Support Services

Domestic, family and sexual violence can be difficult to read or talk about.

If you need support, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. If there is an immediate danger, call 000.