Posted: 26/02/2026 Closing Date: 09/03/2026 Job Type: Temporary Location: Geelong, 37 Malop Street Job Category: Community Services and Development
Who is are-able?
At are-able, we recognise the unique strengths and perspectives that each person brings.
We are committed to building an inclusive, diverse and supportive workplace — where ideas thrive, innovation grows, and people feel valued. Our organisation champions meaningful impact, professional growth, and a healthy balance between work and family.
With over 30 years of deep community connection, we continue to transform lives and foster opportunities. We are driven by our mission to do more for more people in more communities. We break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create an environment where everyone’s abilities are not only recognised but nurtured.
Why choose to work with are-able?
are-able is proud to be a Winner of the Australian Business Award for Employer of Choice. We foster a positive, high performing team culture built on respect, empathy, integrity and innovation. We seek passionate individuals who are driven to make a real difference in people's lives.
In return for your valued contribution, we offer:
* A family-friendly organisational culture with true work-life balance
* Attractive salary packaging to maximise your take home pay
* Me Days and bonus Christmas leave - additional leave days each year
Join us and be part of a team making a real impact in communities across Australia.
Job Description
About the program & role
This is a Part Time and Contract Opportunity. The Youth Disability Caution and Diversion Program aims to reduce reoffending rates among youth with disabilities by providing individualised support and effective diversion strategies. This program focuses on addressing young participants' unique needs and circumstances, facilitating their successful reintegration into the community. By working closely with community partners, law enforcement, and support services, the program promotes rehabilitation and positive outcomes for at-risk youth.
The Youth Disability Mentor plays a crucial role in the Youth Disability Caution and Diversion Program. This position involves engaging young participants to understand their needs and risk factors, developing personalized diversion plans, and providing ongoing support and mentorship. The officer collaborates with community partners, law enforcement, and support services to ensure a coordinated participant support and intervention approach. Key responsibilities include case management, advocacy for the rights and needs of young people with disabilities, and contributing to the continuous improvement of the program. This role is pivotal in fostering positive life choices and reducing reoffending rates among youth with disabilities.
Desired Skills and Experience
We seek a candidate with substantial experience and specialized training to support youth with disabilities, particularly in justice or support settings. The ideal candidate will have:
* Experience: At least 3 years of experience working with young people with disabilities, ideally having some experience with intellectual disabilities or young people with complex needs in justice or support settings.
* Certification: Relevant certification or training in intellectual disability support, such as a Certificate IV in Disability or equivalent, is desirable. Additional certifications in mental health first aid, trauma-informed care, or complex needs support are highly beneficial.
* Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Exceptional ability to build trust and rapport with participants and their families and effective verbal and written communication skills for interacting with diverse stakeholders.
* Empathy and Compassion: A strong sense of empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by young people with disabilities, coupled with the ability to provide compassionate support and foster a positive, non-judgmental environment.
* Analytical and Decision-Making Skills: Strong analytical skills to assess participant needs and develop effective diversion plans, and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure and in complex situations.
* Case Management Experience: Demonstrated experience managing multiple cases, maintaining accurate documentation, and developing, implementing, and monitoring individual support plans.
* Knowledge and Advocacy: A solid understanding of the unique challenges and needs of young people with disabilities, knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, and best practices in youth diversion and disability support, and the ability to advocate for the rights and needs of young people with disabilities.
* Organisational and Conflict Resolution Skills: Strong organizational skills to manage workload and meet deadlines, skills in managing and resolving conflicts between participants, families, and stakeholders, and the ability to de-escalate tense situations and find mutually acceptable solutions.
* Adaptability and Learning: Demonstrated capacity to adapt to changing circumstances, respond effectively to new challenges, and a willingness to learn and implement new approaches and strategies.
* Ethical Conduct and Confidentiality: Commitment to maintaining high standards of ethical and professional conduct, with proven ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and integrity.
The successful candidate will effectively represent the program and its participants to various stakeholders, ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to supporting youth with disabilities.
The Feel-Good Parts
At are-able, every dollar of profit goes back into the communities we serve. Through the are-able Foundation, donations, and sponsorships, we’ve contributed over $1.6 million since 2004.
We are a values-driven organisation, guided by:
* Integrity – We’re honest, transparent, and accountable.
* Respect – We celebrate diversity and empower individuals.
* Empathy – We understand different perspectives to create real solutions.
* Innovation – We embrace fresh ideas to make a lasting impact.
We are committed to inclusion and welcome applications from First Nations people, people with disabilities, culturally diverse backgrounds, mature-age workers, and the LGBTIQA+ community.
Join us and be part of something bigger.
To obtain a Position Description, please click on the link on our careers page, or for more information, contact Trudi Perkins on 0448 232 848