Case Worker - Youth on Track - Identified Position
Posted: 11/02/2026
Closing Date: 11/03/2026
Job Type: Contract - Full Time
Location: Tamworth
Job Category: Community Services and Development
About Us
Centacare New England North West (NENW) is a social services agency of the Catholic Diocese of Armidale, supporting individuals, families and communities across regional NSW.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands across the New England and North West regions and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise the ongoing strength, resilience and connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to culture, family and Country.
Centacare NENW is a values-based organisation guided by Dignity, Solidarity, Subsidiarity and the Common Good. We are committed to culturally safe, inclusive and respectful practice and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.
Job Description
About the Program
Youth on Track is an early intervention and diversion program for young people aged 10–17 years who are at risk of entering, or becoming further involved in, the criminal justice system.
The program is grounded in evidence-based and culturally responsive practice and focuses on:
* Early intervention and diversion from the justice system
* Strengths-based, relationship-focused case management
* Separating treatment from punishment
* Responding to a young person's needs, strengths and circumstances, not offence alone
* Providing timely, practical and culturally appropriate support
* Supporting connection to family, culture, community and identity
About the Role
We are seeking a committed and culturally strong Youth on Track Case Worker to work in a First Nations identified role, supporting Aboriginal young people and their families.
You will work alongside young people experiencing complex and intergenerational challenges, supporting them to reduce justice system involvement, strengthen cultural identity, re‐engage with education or employment, and build positive connections with family, community and culture.
This role values lived experience, community knowledge and strong relationship‐building skills. Travel within the service area will be required.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide one‐on‐one, strengths‐based and culturally responsive case management to young people aged 10–17
* Work alongside young people to reduce contact with police and justice systems
* Support young people to re‐engage with education, training, employment or meaningful activities
* Engage families, carers and kinship networks as key partners in change
* Develop and implement individualised case plans that reflect cultural strengths, assessed risks and goals
* Advocate for young people within education, justice and community systems
* Build and maintain respectful relationships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Elders and local community services
* Maintain accurate and confidential case records in line with organisational and legislative requirements
* Participate in cultural supervision, professional development and team activities
* Comply with organisational policies, child safety standards and legislative requirements
What We Offer
We are committed to the well‐being and ongoing development of our team. You can expect:
* Salary packaging up to $18,500 tax‐free, increasing your take‐home pay.
* A supportive and inclusive workplace that values collaboration and professional growth.
* Opportunities to contribute to positive organisational change.
* Flexible work practices that recognise the importance of work–life balance.
* A meaningful frontline role supporting Aboriginal young people at critical points in their lives
* Culturally safe supervision and strong team support
* Opportunities for professional development, training and career progression
* A values‐driven organisation committed to self‐determination, child safety and ethical practice.
Desired Skills and Experience
Essential Qualifications & Experience
Applicants must address the following in their application:
* Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal young people, families and communities
* Understanding of the criminal justice system and its impact on Aboriginal people
* Experience supporting young people with complex needs
* Demonstrated experience in case management or support frameworks
* Ability to work collaboratively with families, community members and service providers
* Strong advocacy skills and the ability to support young people to achieve their goals
* Current NSW Driver Licence and ability to travel
* Ability to obtain and maintain a Working with Children Check and National Criminal History Check
Knowledge & Skills
* Strong communication skills and ability to build trust and rapport
* Cultural knowledge, humility and commitment to culturally safe practice
* High level of empathy, patience and emotional intelligence
* Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
* Competency in Microsoft Office and electronic record‐keeping systems
Your Next Move
To be considered, please submit:
* A cover letter/statement addressing the essential criteria
This is a rolling recruitment process—interviews may occur as suitable applications are received.Applications close: 4:00 PM, Wednesday 11 th March 2026.
Centacare is committed to the safety and well‐being of children and vulnerable adults. Relevant employment screening checks apply to this role.
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