Make a difference in the lives of young people transitioning from care to independence.
This is a great opportunity to join the Better Futures Barwon team and work in partnership with young people to amplify their strengths, aspirations, and potential. If you're passionate about empowering youth and fostering resilience, this role will allow you to inspire action and create meaningful change.
About the Role
As a Pathways & Development Coach, you will:
* Build authentic, future-focused partnerships with young people, recognising and amplifying their strengths and aspirations.
* Empower young people to shape their own futures by co-designing meaningful goals and pathways towards independence.
* Facilitate access to financial packages and practical resources that align with individual goals and ambitions.
* Utilise the Advantage Thinking framework to provide tailored support based on engagement levels across Active Hold, Limited Support, and Active Support categories.
Position Details
* Full time, Fixed term until 01 March 2027
* 1 FTE working 38 hours per week
* $101,032 p/a + Super + Salary Packaging
Why Work with Us?
At Meli, we offer more than just a job—we provide a platform to thrive, grow, and make an impact. Our Employee Value Proposition (EVP) includes:
* Supportive Culture: Join a values-driven organization that fosters collaboration and innovation.
* Career Growth: Access ongoing Learning & Development opportunities and clear pathways for progression.
* Financial Benefits: Enjoy salary packaging up to $15,900 per year, enhancing your financial well-being.
* Work-Life Balance: Benefit from flexible ways of working
* Employee Wellbeing: Participate in employee-led Inclusion Working Groups, access confidential counselling via our Employee Assistance Program, and enjoy paid parental leave above the government scheme.
* Diversity and Inclusion: Be part of a team that celebrates diversity and actively supports individuals from all walks of life.
What We're Looking For
We value individuals who bring dedication, empathy, and expertise to their roles. To succeed in this position, you will have:
* Relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Welfare/Youth Work or associated discipline or relevant experience working in this space.
* Relevant experience working with vulnerable individuals and families.
* An understanding of the Children, Youth and Families Act (2005), and other relevant legislation.
* A sound understanding of issues confronting young people leaving the statutory care environment.
* Proven ability to engage and case-manage young people at risk and young people exhibiting challenging behaviours.
* An understanding of the impact of trauma on young people and the ability to work from a trauma informed approach, to effectively and constructively work alongside the young people, including statutory clients and those with challenging behaviours.
* Understanding of the purpose and expectations of the Victorian Child Safe Standards and demonstrated commitment to contributing to a child safe organisation in both practice and culture.
How to Apply
We're excited to hear from you! Please submit your application, including a résumé and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined above. Applications close 11:59 pm, Monday 23 February 2026.
For more information about the position please contact Katie Schomacker, Team Leader Better Futures Barwon on 0468 918 ***.
Join Our Commitment
Meli is committed to providing a child-safe environment. We have zero tolerance of any abuse or harm of children. Our recruitment practices reflect our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in our care. All employment with Meli is subject to reference checks, a satisfactory national (and international where relevant) police check, VIT Check (where applicable) and a current Working with Children Check prior to commencement of any paid or unpaid work and/or participation in any service or undertaking.
Meli is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We actively encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ community members, people living with disabilities, and those looking to return to the workforce.
Our usual process includes a written application, a phone call and a panel interview. If you require adjustments to the recruitment process, please email us at ***********@meli.org.au to discuss how we can best support you.
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