Aboriginal Caseworker - Hunter Region & Newcastle
We are currently recruiting for vacancies in various locations throughout the Hunter Region and Newcastle.
Working for the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) provides opportunities to make a real difference. We collaborate with other agencies and community partners, to improve lives and realise the potential of children, adults, families and communities. Our focus is on breaking disadvantage rather than managing it.
Our primary goal is to keep families together, ensuring children thrive at home. The safety, welfare, and wellbeing of children or young people is always our top priority.
Identified Role
This position is open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons. The applicant's race is a genuine occupational qualification under the exception in Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.
Key Responsibilities
* 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 formulating goals that align with their needs, addressing safety and well-being concerns, and provide appropriate assistance through home visits.
* Develop safety plans and complete risk assessments.
* Manage cases and situations including working with high needs and high-risk clients and their families.
* Be involved in court processes, including the preparation of court documents and attending court.
* Participate in individual and group supervision.
About This Role
This role can be challenging at times, requiring tough decisions to help families overcome hardships and develop safe and loving homes.
Requirements
* A relevant diploma or degree qualification is preferred.
* Applicants without a relevant qualification require at least two years' experience working with vulnerable children, young people and their families.
* The ability to build positive working relationships with the Aboriginal community, supported by excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* A valid driver's licence.
* A paid working with children clearance number.
Confirmation of Aboriginality
There are two alternatives to confirming your Aboriginality:
* Confirmation of Aboriginality form.
* Written confirmation from 2-3 Aboriginal organisations within the community in which you live/work, which addresses the three criteria listed below:
o Is of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent, and
o Identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, and
o Is accepted as such by the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.
What's in it for You?
As Australia's top public sector employer, we offer competitive benefits and opportunities, including:
* Rewarding salary from $87,315 to $113,562 pa plus superannuation and annual leave loading.
* Opportunities to work flexibly.
* 17 weeks of industry leading training in the Caseworker Development Program.
* Customised career development and support for your personal and professional growth.
* Generous leave entitlements including flex leave.
* Positive culture for wellness including Fitness Passport, tailored health app and mental health support.