This is a newly created, pivotal leadership role within a values-driven not-for-profit that has served Wheatbelt communities for almost 40 years. As Practice Lead, you will be the right hand to the CEO — providing expert practice oversight, clinical supervision and direct line management to a team of youth workers and residential support staff across four regional locations – driving the cultural and practice uplift this organisation is committed to.
Your key responsibilities will include:
* Practice Leadership - deliver clinical and reflective supervision; build staff capability in trauma-informed, culturally safe and child safe practice; guide staff through complex casework and critical incidents.
* Staff Performance & Development - implement performance plans; build a culture of accountability and professional growth; support staff working towards formal qualifications.
* Service Delivery Oversight — ensure consistent, high-quality delivery across all sites; monitor risk; oversee intake and case planning for the supported accommodation service.
* Site Presence — travel to youth centres in Merredin, Moora and Narrogin at least monthly; be a visible, trusted leader on the ground.
* Reporting & Data — produce six-monthly program reports; embed the new data capture system across locations.
The above is not an exhaustive description of responsibility. You will be expected to perform different and additional tasks as required to meet the organisation's overall objectives.
About you
A seasoned practitioner and people leader — warm, culturally aware and uncompromising on work ethic. You know what good youth work looks like, and you know how to bring others along with you.
Ideal Candidate
* A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Youth Work, Psychology or a related discipline (Diploma minimum; Bachelor preferred).
* At least 10 years in the community services sector, including direct practice in youth work, case management or residential care.
* Proven people management experience — navigating performance issues, building team culture and holding staff accountable with fairness and care.
* Solid understanding of trauma-informed practice, child safe frameworks and culturally responsive service delivery, particularly with Aboriginal communities.
* Strong written and verbal communication; calm and considered under pressure.
* A current National Police Clearance, Working With Children Check and unrestricted Driver's Licence (essential).
* Residence in, or willingness to relocate to, the Avon region or surrounds (Northam, York, Mundaring or similar).
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.
Why Join
* Make a real, visible difference to the lives of homeless and vulnerable young people in regional WA.
* A newly created role with genuine scope — shape how it looks and feels.
* Work closely with a passionate, values-driven CEO invested in building something better.
Inclusion
Avon Community Services is creating a workplace that celebrates and advances diversity and inclusion. To achieve this, we seek team members who reflect the diversity of our communities and are passionate about driving positive change. Everyone is welcome and valued here.
Child Safe
Avon Community Services is committed to providing safe environments where children and young people feel valued, respected and are protected from abuse and harm. Avon Community Services takes safeguarding children and young people seriously. We have zero tolerance for child abuse.
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