Proud and Ready Internships (2 days per week)

ACON’s Proud & Ready Internship Program provides a paid, structured, entry-level internship centring real-world experience, mentorship and industry connections. Through applied engagement with ACON’s core business of creating opportunities for people in our communities to live their healthiest lives, you will build confidence and job readiness for a meaningful career in the health and community sector.

Interns will receive individual mentoring, support and training while collaboratively assisting with the development and delivery of health promotion initiatives. You can expect to undertake and engage with research on community health issues, provide event planning and delivery support, assist with digital communication design and build connections through stakeholder engagement. You will have the opportunity to contribute to ACON’s advocacy efforts, assist in online and face-to-face outreach, and provide administrative support to ensure the smooth implementation of programs. 

Interns will be placed across ACON departments including First Nations Community Health, Greater Western Sydney, Trans Health Equity, People and Culture, Policy, Strategy & Research and Cancer Programs. You will receive mentoring, supervision and training that aligns with your career goals and provides personalised guidance and industry insights. The program is structured to ensure regular peer networking and collaboration and a supportive learning environment that builds pathways to sustainable employment within the health and community sector.

This six-month, part-time internship actively welcomes and values the strengths, skills, and insights of LGBTQ+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, women in regional NSW, and young women, who can demonstrate they have experienced barriers to entering or re-entering the workforce.

We recognise that people bring a wealth of lived experience shaped by culture, community, caring roles, and diverse educational journeys. We particularly encourage applications from individuals who have navigated non-linear or interrupted pathways into work or education and those whose opportunities may have been impacted by structural or systemic inequities. We view embodied community knowledge, cultural perspectives, and care responsibilities as valuable contributions to this role. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, and welcome neurodivergent people and people with disability. Please note that this role does not offer visa sponsorship.

ACON’s Proud & Ready Internships are funded by Women NSW and their Return to Work Pathways Program (RTWPP). This funding supports women who are experiencing complex and persistent barriers to employment to enter or re-enter the workforce. The RTWPP delivers on NSW Government priorities including the NSW Women’s Strategy 2023-2026.

All available internships based at ACON’s Gadigal / Sydney office are:

1. First Nations Community Health Promotion Intern
2. People and Culture Intern
3. Greater Western Sydney Health Promotion Intern
4. Trans Health Equity Intern
5. Policy & Research Intern
6. Cancer Programs Intern

Who are we looking for?

We’re seeking passionate, motivated individuals who are eager to develop their skills and gain hands-on experience in community health. The ideal candidate is curious, proactive, and committed to making a positive impact. You should have a strong interest in health promotion, advocacy, or community development, and be keen to work in a collaborative, supportive environment. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn, contribute, and grow in a program designed to elevate your career prospects.

What else can we tell you?

ACON provides a diverse, nurturing, and fun workplace. ACON’s employees and volunteers are at the heart of everything we do and working at ACON would see you join a community of passionate people who deliver innovative community engagement and health promotion programs and initiatives for our communities.

To support the successful candidate in their new role at ACON we offer:

• Generous learning and development opportunities.
• Potential for tailored mentoring opportunities.
• Supportive working environment with a knowledgeable and friendly team.

What’s the remuneration and working details?

Salary: $52,303 pa FTE (Gross Salary, PLUS Superannuation and Leave Loading) [$28.7379 / hr + Super + LL]

Locations: ACON’s Gadigal / Surry Hills Office, and off-site outreach locations as required.

Hours: Part Time (28 hrs / fortnight) on a 6-month fixed term contract. Days and times of work may be negotiable.

We offer flexible working arrangements and a generous array of entitlements often above the National Employment Standards (NES) including:

• Salary Packaging up to $35,000 gross up value (i.e., currently up to $15,900 Expenses + $2,650 Meals, tax free).
• Generous pro-rata leave entitlements – including up to an extra week of paid leave for full time employees to be taken during our Christmas and New Year’s shutdown period.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – access to a comprehensive counselling service free to employees.