Refuge Manager

Refuge Manager – High Security Family Violence Accommodation

Elizabeth Morgan House Aboriginal Women's Services Inc. (EMHAWS)

Location: North and West Melbourne Metro

Employment Type: Full-time, Ongoing

Classification: SCHADS Level 7

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Women are strongly encouraged to apply (exemption under Section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (VIC)

About Us

Elizabeth Morgan House Aboriginal Women's Services Inc. (EMHAWS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation governed by an elected Board of Directors, proudly providing specialist family violence services for Victorian Aboriginal women and their children since 1976.

For over 40 years, we have been a sector leader, delivering culturally safe, trauma-informed programs that empower Aboriginal women, children, young people, and the wider community. Our services span multiple sites across North and West Melbourne Metro and include a high-security refuge, crisis accommodation, specialist cultural case management, advocacy, and therapeutic programs.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Refuge Manager to lead the operations of our High Security Family Violence Refuge. This pivotal leadership role ensures our refuge is a safe, culturally respectful, and healing environment for women and children who have experienced complex trauma.

You will lead a dedicated multidisciplinary team, embedding trauma-informed and culturally safe practices in daily operations while achieving service excellence and meeting key performance indicators (KPIs).

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strong, values-based leadership, direction, and day-to-day management of refuge operations.
• Lead and support a team of Family Violence Practitioners and Residential Afterhours Practitioners, ensuring consistent supervision, reflective practice, and professional development.
• Embed trauma-informed and culturally appropriate practices that create safe, respectful, and healing environments for residents.
• Oversee all operational aspects, including staff rostering, resident intake and assessment, safety planning, property maintenance, and WHS compliance.
• Monitor and report on KPIs, including occupancy rates, MARAM assessment compliance, and client outcomes.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners, sector agencies, and government stakeholders.
• Champion EMHAWS's vision and actively contribute to our strategic goals as a sector leader.

About You

To be successful, you will have:

• Bachelor qualification in Social Work, Social Welfare, Community Services, or a related discipline meeting Mandatory Minimum Qualifications (Recommendation 209), or eligibility to work within the Family Violence Sector under Recommendation 209.
• Comprehensive MARAM and FVISS/CISS training (with evidence of completion).
• Demonstrated experience leading teams in a residential setting, preferably within family violence or related sectors.
• Strong understanding of the Family Violence Protection Act 2008, Child Information Sharing Scheme, Family Violence Information Sharing Scheme, and Children, Youth and Families Act 2005.
• Proven skills in strategic planning, risk management, and meeting organisational KPIs.
• Commitment to and understanding of the needs and strengths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, children, and families.
• Experience embedding trauma-informed approaches into practice and organisational culture.

Why Join EMHAWS?

• Work for a respected Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation with over 40 years of impact.
• Lead a high-performing team in a role that drives real change for Aboriginal women and children.
• Access salary packaging benefits to increase your take-home pay.
• Be part of a supportive, culturally safe, and inclusive workplace.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

How to Apply

Please send your resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria to

For more information, please contact Sim Khorana