Youth Residential Care Worker

• Ballarat Victoria area, Homes on Wadawurrung Country
• Various opportunities available
• Ongoing Hourly rate of $34 - $43 p/hr (unqualified) or $38 - $48 p/hr (qualified) + salary packaging

This is not a current vacancy. Please register your interest to be considered our next Group Interview in 2025.

Your Opportunity

Join our team at Berry Street's Residential Care Program, where we provide accommodation, top-tier physical and emotional care, and unwavering support to children and young people aged 10 to 17. These individuals, placed under Child Protection orders, come to us when other Out of Home Care options are not feasible. While the role is deeply rewarding, it also presents its own set of challenges. Working with children and young people who have endured trauma, neglect, and abuse requires resilience, compassion, and a commitment to their growth and well-being. Our roster operates 24/7, offering a variety of day shifts (7am to 11pm) and overnight shifts (11pm to 7am). 

On the Job, You Will: 

• Work collaboratively within a dedicated team to deliver high-quality therapeutic care. 
• Implement current best practice therapeutic interventions and program guidelines to ensure the highest standard of care and child safety. 
• Serve as a positive role model, supporting young people in their educational, social, and recreational pursuits while fostering independence. 
• Create a safe and nurturing home environment, including managing household duties and providing nutritious meals. 

Your Skills and Experience: 

• You're a team player with the ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, prioritising the best interests of the young person. 
• Strong communication skills, active listening, and a commitment to maintaining professional boundaries. 
• Flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to multitask with ease. 
• Creative thinking and a non-judgmental approach to life. 
• A driver's license (minimum green P's) is essential for transporting young people. 
• A minimum Cert IV in Child, Youth & Family Intervention or equivalent qualification is required.
• Applicants must complete the mandatory upskilling units as required by Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.

Why Berry Street: 

As one of Australia's largest independent agencies, we're dedicated to providing diverse programs to over 35,000 young people, children, and families across Victoria each year. We believe in safety, thriving, and hope for all and strive to make this a reality every day. Join our team and benefit from our commitment to professional development, access to an Employee Assistance Program, and opportunities for career progression. 

Berry Street's Benefits

• Comprehensive training including AOD, First Aid, Health & Safety and more.
• $15,900.00 pa (pro rata) Salary Packaging + Additional Salary Packaging for meals/accommodation
• Generous leave conditions
• Access to the Employee Assistance Program, with access for staff's immediate family
• Minimum Leave loading 17.5% or penalty rates when on annual leave.

For inquiries, contact our Talent Acquisition Team at

Please Note; the successful applicant will be subject to comprehensive reference and background checking prior to employment, including a Working with Children Check and National and International Police check (if required) and Worker Care Exclusion Scheme.

Berry Street is committed to being a child safe, child friendly and child empowering organisation. In everything we do we seek to protect children. We are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children; children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds; children with a disability; children who identify as LGBTIQA+. We aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their cultural background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, spirituality or religion.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds and people with a disability are encouraged to apply.