Senior Practice Development Officer

The Department of Communities brings together the services and functions of disability services, child protection and family support, community initiatives and regional services reform.

Communities is a nationally recognised Accredited Carer Friendly Employer through the Carers + Employers program. The program defines best practice standards by creating a carer friendly workplace, enabling staff to balance work and care, while continuing to contribute to the wellbeing of individuals, families and the community.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Practice Development Officer, you will be responsible for:

• Providing advice, consultation and assistance to District Directors, Directors, unit Managers, Team Leaders and other Field staff within the district on operational policy and practice matters and complex casework practice issues.
• Promoting quality practice and continuous improvement in the delivery of services.
• Contributing to the development of monitoring and reviewing frameworks and supports their operation.
• Monitoring, reporting and making recommendations on the standard of departmental practice.
• Contributing to professional development and practice development by engagement in a range of learning strategies including mentoring and coaching.

About Child Protection and Family Support

The Child Protection and Family Support Division is committed to delivering services that promote the safety and wellbeing of children, families, and individuals.

We provide person-centred and culturally safe services that respect each individual's background and strengths. By working in partnership with families and communities, we aim to build safety, strengthen wellbeing, and support positive, long-term outcomes for families and young people.

The attached Job Description Form (JDF, via Jobs WA) provides more information about the position. For further information we encourage you to contact Ngawai Love, Manager Therapeutic Care Policy and Practice, on

Suitable applicants will be placed in a pool from which appointments will be made for this or similar future vacancies fixed term and permanent that arise within the next 12 months across the Department of Communities.

Qualification Requirements

You must have a Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or relevant human services area to be eligible for this position. All overseas qualifications must be assessed for Australian equivalency. Refer to our website for information about the qualification requirements for this role, and how we will be assessing your qualifications.

The Department offers great benefits including:

• Employer contributions of 12 per cent to your superannuation – using a GESB Super - GESB fund or another super provider of your choice.
• Access to flexible working options.
• 20 working days of annual leave (pro rata for part-time).
• Up to 15 days of personal leave (pro rata for part-time).
• Up to 3 additional public sector holidays in lieu per year. Subject to eligibility.
• Access to mentoring programs.
• Access to the Fitness passport program.
• Free access to a confidential employee assistance program for you and your family, which includes psychology and counselling services.
• 5 days of cultural and ceremonial leave.

Join the Department of Communities

Apply online by clicking the 'Apply for Job' button (above and below) and provide the following documents in Word or PDF format only:

1. A current resume/CV.
2. A two [2] page written application addressing all the Essential Work Related Requirements (Selection Criteria) as stated on the JDF (via Jobs WA).
3. A copy of your degree certificate and academic transcript (plus unit descriptors and/or overseas qualification assessment if applicable).
4. A copy of all qualification/s (regardless of the relevance to the role) as specified in your application or resume/CV (if applicable).
5. An application form (for hard copy applications only).

For technical difficulties while applying online, general recruitment enquiries, or to request any document in an alternative format, please contact Macarena Acosta, HR Advisor by emailing 

Equity and Diversity

The Department of Communities is committed to improving employment opportunities and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. As a measure to achieve equality and support, section 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA) will apply to this position. Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply.

If you have any access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, or alternative methods of communication, please contact Macarena.

Applicants who would like assistance with your application, please contact Jobs and Skills WA on

Lodgement is system generated. Any emailed applications or late submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted.