Number of Positions Available:
ABOUT US
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.
Position Title: Community Development Specialist
Classification: SCHADS Crisis Level 4
Location: Toowoomba, QLD – Social Mission, Homelessness
Status: Full Time | Monday–Friday, 8:30am–4:30pm
Why this role matters
The Salvation Army (Salvos) is one of the largest providers of homelessness services across the country. Our philosophy is that every person should be afforded dignity and respect and that no one should be without a safe, affordable, and secure home. We provide services and supports to adults, and families with accompanying children in the form of accommodation, case management, assertive outreach, financial assistance, community connection and referral services.
About the Role
As a Community Development Specialist, you'll be at the heart of creating real social change across Toowoomba and the Southwest Region. You'll design, deliver, and champion community‑led initiatives that build connection, strengthen inclusion, and help move us closer to ending homelessness.
This is a role with genuine influence. You'll have the autonomy to shape strategy, guide best practice, and provide expert support to the Queensland Homelessness Leadership Team, frontline services, and the wider community sector. You'll also help shape the way we work by developing tools, frameworks, and approaches that lift community outcomes and drive long‑term impact.
How You Will Make an Impact
* Create meaningful spaces for individuals and groups to connect, collaborate, and build shared goals
* Facilitate community‑driven activities, ensuring they are relevant, valued, and well‑supported
* Champion advocacy opportunities and empower participants to build confidence, resilience, and self‑advocacy skills
* Strengthen community connections by helping individuals access supports and navigate services
* Lead initiatives that foster social inclusion and community engagement
* Deliver training and workforce development for internal teams, including Community Development and Most Significant Change methodology
* Provide strategic advice to leadership on embedding community‑inclusion practices
* Participate in sector networks, Communities of Practice, and local community groups
* Lead working groups to plan and implement community initiatives
* Analyse data, community narratives, and feedback to enhance development strategies
* Contribute to organisational leadership through tender input, staff development, and training strategies
* Develop operational tools and templates that strengthen community development practice
What You Will Bring
* Demonstrated experience in social services, with strong community development and group facilitation skills
* Relevant tertiary qualification (bachelor's, postgraduate, or associate diploma) plus significant industry experience
* Deep understanding of community development frameworks, theories, and best practice
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively
* Strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently in a dynamic environment
Mandatory Requirements
* Current QLD Working With Children Check
* Current and valid Driver's Licence
What we offer
The Salvos offer eligible employee's a well-balanced package of meaningful benefits including:
* Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefit.
* Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities.
* Flexible working arrangements.
* Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport
* Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports such as: Burra Burra Network (pastoral care network), Cultural Events, Sorry Business and Ceremonial Leave (up to 10 days)
* Ongoing training and development opportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency.
* Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts
About us
The Salvation Army (Salvos) is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, the Salvos are always there providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.
How to apply
Are you ready to be a part of our mission to end Homelessness? Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter explaining your passion for this work and your relevant experience. We look forward to hearing from you and discussing how you can contribute to our team.
Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured.
The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.
We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration