Aboriginal Caseworker - Illawarra/Shoalhaven
We are currently recruiting for a recruitment pool to fill future vacancies in Shellharbour, Wollongong, Ulladulla & Nowra.
We do work that really matters
Working for the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) provides opportunities to make a real difference. We collaborate with agencies and community partners to improve lives and realize the potential of children, adults, families, and communities. Our focus is on breaking disadvantage, not just managing it. This work truly matters.
DCJ aims to keep families together so children can thrive at home. Our priority is the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of children or young people. We recognize that increasing the number of Aboriginal caseworkers helps more Aboriginal children grow up safely with their community.
As an Identified role, this position is open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons. This is a genuine occupational qualification under Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.
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What You’ll Do
* Work sensitively and respectfully with parents, family members, children, or young people.
* Collaborate with other agencies and engage in complex problem solving.
* Assist families in setting goals that meet their needs, addressing safety and wellbeing concerns, and provide support through home visits.
* Develop safety plans and conduct risk assessments.
* Manage cases, including working with high needs and high-risk clients and their families.
* Participate in court processes, including preparing court documents and attending hearings.
* Engage in individual and group supervision.
Working as an Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker can be challenging. You may need to make tough decisions to help families overcome hardships and create safe, loving homes.
What We’re Looking For
To succeed as a Child Protection Caseworker, you should be confident, curious, and resilient. Essential requirements include:
* A relevant diploma or degree (preferred).
* Alternatively, at least two years’ experience working with vulnerable children, young people, and families.
* Ability to build positive relationships, supported by excellent communication skills.
* A valid driver’s license.
* A paid Working with Children clearance number.
* Verification of Aboriginality, confirming you are of Aboriginal descent, identify as Aboriginal, and are accepted as such by your community.
Role Confirmation of Aboriginality
You must upload one of the following to be considered:
* Confirmation of Aboriginality form.
or
Written confirmation from 2-3 Aboriginal organizations within your community addressing:
* Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent.
* Self-identification as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
* Acceptance by the community.
Click here to view the role description and more about the assessment process.
Click here to hear from our Aboriginal Caseworkers.
What’s in it for you?
As Australia’s top public sector employer, we offer competitive benefits, including:
* Salary from $87,315 to $113,562 per annum plus superannuation and leave loading.
* Flexible work arrangements.
* 17 weeks of industry-leading training through the Caseworker Development Program.
* Career development and support for growth.
* Generous leave entitlements, including flex leave.
* Wellness programs, including Fitness Passport, health apps, and mental health support.
Are you ready to join us?
Click apply, attach a cover letter (max 2 pages), and an up-to-date résumé (max 5 pages).
Got a question?
If you have questions or need adjustments in the recruitment process, contact Isabelle at 02 9765 3781 or Visit the adjustment in the recruitment process page to learn more.
Inclusion and Diversity
We value diversity and actively recruit people with various skills and backgrounds, including those with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, LGBTIQ+ individuals, culturally diverse groups, carers, and others. Learn more about our inclusion initiatives on the DCJ website.
Other Information
A talent pool may be created for future roles, valid for up to 18 months. For more information on applying, visit Careers for Aboriginal people.
Thank you for your interest. We look forward to your application.
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