Description
Housing First is an internationally recognised, evidence based model that supports people experiencing long-term and recurring homelessness to access and sustain safe, permanent housing. The model prioritises housing as the foundation for recovery, alongside wrap-around, person-centred supports.
This role forms part of a Housing First initiative, delivered in partnership by RUAH Community Services, St Pat's and Wungening Aboriginal Corporation, working collaboratively to end rough sleeping and improve long-term outcomes for some of the most vulnerable people in our community.
Main Duties
About the Role
As an Assertive Case Worker, you will be at the forefront of client-facing service delivery, providing intensive, strengths-based and trauma-informed support to people experiencing rough sleeping.
Supported by a Team Lead, you will engage people where they are, assist them to access housing and provide ongoing case management to help them maintain housing and improve their overall wellbeing.
This is a rewarding but complex role suited to someone who is resilient, adaptable and passionate about social justice and ending homelessness.
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver place-based assertive outreach to people experiencing rough sleeping
* Identify and engage clients within Housing First frameworks and best practice principles
* Complete VI-SPDAT assessments and maintain accurate records on the By-Name List
* Undertake client intakes, assessments, and ongoing case management
* Support clients to access and sustain long-term housing through the Finding a Home Program or other pathways
* Provide intensive post-housing support to prevent returns to homelessness
* Deliver activity-based support and daily living skills in line with care plans and risk assessments
* Escalate complex mental health, AOD, or other high-risk needs to senior/key workers
* Maintain high-quality case notes using ISOBAR format and ensure compliance with information-sharing protocols
* Work collaboratively with internal teams, external agencies, and the Housing First Coordination System
* Operate within culturally safe, trauma-informed, and person-centred practice frameworks
* Contribute to data collection, reporting, and achievement of program KPIs
* Identify and report any child safety concerns in line with organisational policy
About You
You are a compassionate and capable practitioner who can work autonomously while contributing positively to a multidisciplinary team. You are comfortable engaging with people experiencing complex and chaotic life circumstances and are committed to supporting long-term, sustainable change.
Essential Criteria
* Relevant qualification (Certificate III or IV and/or minimum 1 year relevant experience, or Degree qualification)
* Demonstrated understanding of Housing First principles
* Experience working with people affected by homelessness, mental health issues, AOD use, and/or family and domestic violence
* Strong engagement skills and ability to build and maintain professional relationships
* Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
* High level of written and verbal communication skills
* Strong emotional maturity, resilience, and ability to model positive behaviours
* Competency in Microsoft Office and client information systems
* Understanding of diversity, gender and social inclusion, particularly Aboriginal culture
In return we offer
* Value based organisation working towards ending homelessness
* Growing organisation with a fantastic culture
* Competitive salary
* Salary packaging up to $15,900
* Access to an Employee Assistance Program
If this is the role for you, please demonstrate your capability by providing evidence of how you meet the Essential Criteria in your Cover Letter, attaching your CV with references.
Shortlisting will commence as soon as possible, so if you want to work for an organisation making positive changes to the community APPLY TODAY