Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker

Aboriginal Caseworker - Illawarra/Shoalhaven

We are recruiting for a recruitment pool to fill future vacancies in Shellharbour, Wollongong, Ulladulla & Nowra. This is an Identified role open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons. Where a position is identified, an applicant's race is a genuine occupational qualification under the exception in Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.

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, rather than managing, disadvantage and keeping families together so that children thrive at home.

Our priority is the safety, welfare and wellbeing of children or young people. We believe more Aboriginal caseworkers help Aboriginal kids grow up safely at home with their mob.

• 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 address safety and wellbeing, with home visits and appropriate assistance
• Develop safety plans and complete risk assessments
• Manage cases involving high needs and high-risk clients and their families
• Be involved in court processes, including preparation of court documents and attendance
• Participate in individual and group supervision

Being an Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker can be challenging and may require tough decisions to help families care for their children and develop safe, loving homes.

To be a Child Protection Caseworker you need to be confident, curious and resilient. Essential requirements include:

• 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
• Ability to build positive working relationships with excellent verbal and written communication skills
• A valid driver's licence
• A paid working with children clearance number
• Documented verification of Aboriginality confirming you are Aboriginal

There are two acceptable ways to confirm Aboriginality to be considered for the role:

• Confirmation of Aboriginality form
• Written confirmation from 2–3 Aboriginal organisations within your community addressing: (i) Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent, (ii) identification as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, (iii) community acceptance

Click here to view the role description and further information about the assessment process. Click here to hear from our Aboriginal Caseworkers.

As Australia's top public sector employer, we offer competitive benefits and opportunities including:

• Salary from $87,315 to $113,562 per year plus superannuation and annual leave loading
• Flexible work arrangements
• 17 weeks of training in the Caseworker Development Program
• customised career development and personal/professional growth support
• Generous leave entitlements including flex leave
• Wellness culture with Fitness Passport, health app and mental health support

Are you ready to join us? Click apply and attach a cover letter (max 2 pages) and an up-to-date résumé (max 5 pages).

Got a question? If you need adjustments in the recruitment process to help you perform at your best (including alternative submission methods), please call Isabelle on 02 9765 3781 or via Isabelle.kratz@dcj.nsw.gov.au. Visit adjustment in the recruitment process to learn more.