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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.
Why this role matters
Every young person deserves the chance to step into adulthood feeling supported, capable and confident. Many of the young people connected with the Supported Independent Living Service (SILS) have experienced instability or trauma and are now navigating the transition to independence without the safety nets most of us take for granted.
As a Youth Worker, you play a vital role in creating stability, safety and connection. You provide practical support, guidance and encouragement as young people build essential life skills, strengthen their independence and develop confidence in their own abilities. Your presence helps them feel seen, supported and capable of shaping their own future.
About the role
The Salvation Army Youth Services team works alongside young people across Australia to help them thrive, whether that is through housing, education, outreach, mentoring or life skills programs.
In this role, you will support young people aged 16–21 who are under Guardianship of the Chief Executive. You will work across multiple sites - offices based in Pooraka and Plympton (subject to change), providing day-to-day support, supervision, advocacy and practical assistance as they transition toward independent living.
This position is available on a full-time or part-time basis and is paid in accordance with the SCHADS Level 3 Award.
This role also participates in an after-hours on-call roster approximately once every six weeks.
It is a hands-on, relationship-focused role. You may be helping a young person learn to cook, supporting them to attend appointments, assisting with routines, or guiding them through challenges. You will also contribute to a safe and supportive living environment that promotes growth, wellbeing and independence.
How you will make an impact
* Build positive, respectful relationships that help young people feel safe, supported and empowered
* Provide day-to-day guidance in areas such as budgeting, cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, healthy living and community engagement
* Support young people to access services, programs and community supports
* Assist with advocacy and communication with government and non-government agencies
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date case notes, logs and records in line with Salvation Army standards
* Participate in handovers and provide after-hours on-call support as rostered
* Identify risks and escalate concerns to management as required
* Contribute to a positive team culture and continuous improvement across the service
What you will bring
* A minimum Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention (or a related field such as Social Work, Welfare or Community Development), with a relevant degree highly desirable
* Experience working with young people or within a social services environment
* A calm, supportive and grounded approach when assisting young people through challenges
* Strong communication and relationship-building skills
* Understanding of trauma, child development and child protection principles
* Current Driver's Licence
* First Aid Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
* Through Their Eyes (Reporting Abuse and Neglect) training
* Psychological Assessment (Children and Young People Safety Act)
What we offer
As a registered not-for-profit organisation, we offer eligible employee's meaningful benefits, including:
* Salary packaging benefits (up to $15,900 tax free) and Entertainment Benefit ($2,650 tax free)
* On-call allowance paid in accordance with the SCHADS Award
* Employee Assistance Program – confidential counselling service
* Financial, retail and lifestyle discounts
* Generous paid parental leave (12 weeks for primary carers), purchased leave options (up to 8 weeks), and 5 days paid leave annually to experience other Salvation Army programs
* Discounted health and fitness programs through Fitness Passport
* Up to 5 days paid leave per year to support a Salvation Army program or activity
* A supportive, inclusive culture with passionate and dedicated team members
* A deeply rewarding role where you can positively influence and support the development of young people's lives
How to apply
If you are passionate about supporting young people and helping them build strong, independent futures, we would welcome your application. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the Youth Worker role.
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