New & Exciting Role – Join Us During Service Expansion
Location: Cairns / Far North QLD | Award: SCHADS Level 6
Ruth's Women's Shelter is a proudly feminist organisation that has been providing crisis accommodation and vital support for women and children experiencing domestic and family violence since 1977. Guided by our vision to End Violence Against Women and Their Children, we are committed to creating safer futures through advocacy, support, and empowerment.
We are driven by the core values of Safety, Respect, Empowerment, Integrity, and Collaboration.
The opportunity
We are seeking a dedicated Senior Practitioner responsible for delivering high-level case support, leading best-practice interventions, and guiding staff in trauma-informed, culturally safe service delivery.
You will work closely with the Operations Manager and Manager to maintain service quality, strengthen practice frameworks, and ensure the shelter remains a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for all who come through our doors.
This role requires flexibility, including working flexible hours to support team members including supervision, with the ability to respond to client safety issues outside of hours on a shared on-call rotating roster.
Key Responsibilities
As the Senior Practitioner, you will:
* Oversee the delivery of all services and case management procedures including comprehensive domestic and family violence risk assessments, safety planning, and crisis response.
* Provide practice guidance, supervision, debriefing, and support to staff.
* Lead complex case responses and assist with crisis interventions.
* Maintain compliance with legislation, DFV standards, and reporting requirements.
* Contribute to continuous improvement and best-practice service delivery.
About You
You are a confident and compassionate practitioner with strong experience in Domestic and Family Violence services, crisis accommodation, homelessness, mental health, or community services. You bring sound judgement, leadership capability, and a calm, grounded approach to complex situations.
Key Selection Criteria
* Bachelor Qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Services, or related discipline.
* Demonstrated experience of 5 + years working within DFV, crisis accommodation, homelessness, or similar settings.
* Strong understanding of DFV dynamics, risk assessment, safety planning, and trauma-informed practice.
* Experience providing case work support and managing complex client presentations.
* High-level communication, de-escalation, and conflict-resolution skills.
* Ability to work autonomously and provide guidance to other practitioners.
* Knowledge of Queensland DFV legislation and Child Safety reporting requirements.
Desirable
* Experience in staff supervision or practice leadership.
* Previous work in a residential or shelter environment.
Other Requirements
* Mandatory Working with Children Check (Blue Card)
* First Aid Certificate (HLTAID003)
* CPR Certificate (HLTAID001)
* Open C Drivers License
What We Offer
* Award rate salary – SCHADS Level 6
* Salary packaging to boost your take-home pay
* Supportive and inclusive workplace with a feminist culture
* Health and wellbeing support, including EAP, supervision, and internal peer support networks
Join a growing, passionate organisation that's making a real difference in the lives of women and children in our community.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and what inspires you to work in the Domestic and Family Violence sector to Emalee Anstee –
Applications will be reviewed as they are received.