Therapeutic Residential Care Worker

Make a difference in the lives of children who need it most.

We need you

Fixed term and permanent employees receive 17.5% annual leave loading.

Casuals receive an additional 25% loading allowance on top of the base salary $76,912 - $82,464 pa pro rata and penalty rates may apply.

We are seeking employees who have genuine care and compassion for others, and who can work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary team to meet the needs and best interests of the child. Those who are resilient, patient, calm, have a non-judgmental attitude and recognise and respect cultural differences. People that can teach life skills and engage children positively in recreational skills. Those that can exhibit strong communicationskills, quickly adapt to changing needs, and can understand and practice self-care.

You will be embraced by a supportive team who are very welcoming. The team are willing to empower you and share their experience for you to thrive, whilst being reflective in its practice to achieve the best outcomes for the children in care.

The vision for Therapeutic Residential Care in Western Australia is to provide a safe and stable home for young people that enables them to heal, connect, learn, and be prepared for their adult lives.

For further information we encourage you to contact Michelle Platt, Assistant Director, on

Want to make a difference? You will

As a Therapeutic Residential Care Worker, you will be responsible for working as a member of a team to achieve best outcomes for children and young people and providing group and individual therapeutic residential care to children and young people. You will assist in planning, developing and implementing activities for children and young people. Refer to the attached Job Description Form for further information.

Your work is guided by the Sanctuary Model to ensure the consistent delivery of trauma informed care to young people in Residential Care, which includes the Seven Commitments for creating safe environments. (see attached)

Join an online Information Session

You will hear from our leaders about Residential Care, the role, their experiences and career progression working with Department of Communities. A HR Business Partner will provide information about the Department and employment benefits. You will have the opportunity to ask questions.

Register your attendance for Tuesday, 26 August 2025 at 5pm using the link (AWST) or by copying the URL below:

If your unable to attend, and seek further information, please email  for a recording of an information session.

Working and Living in the Mid-West

The Mid-West of Western Australia spans from the Indian Ocean coastline inland to the Gibson Desert. Your outdoor adventure includes exploring wildflowers, beach swimming, discovering the Abrolhos Islands, taking in Kalbarri National Park's red and white sandstone gorges and tasting terrific fresh local produce. Discover the major town of Geraldton for yourself.

Our benefits

Communities offer a range of benefits. Communities is a nationally recognised Accredited Carer Friendly Employer through the Carers + Employers program

Based on eligibility, and location, you could be paid:

• District allowance of $1,239 without dependants, or $2478 with dependants.
• 5 weeks annual leave (includes 1 week of shift work allowance).
• 10 days for public holidays.
• Three days public service holidays per annum.

Communities is a nationally recognised Accredited Carer Friendly Employer through the Carers + Employers program.

If you're looking formore than just a joband ready to make a difference, apply now

* Successful applicants who are seeking permanent and fixed term employment will be required toattend mandatory training in October, with dates to be confirmed closer to the time. Please consider your availability before applying, as this is a requirement of the role.

Click the 'Apply for Job' (via Jobs WA) button and provide documents in Word or PDF format only:

1. A current resume/CVthat outlines your relevant experience for the role and includes two work related referees.
2. A copy of all qualification/s (regardless of relevance of the role) as specified in your application or resume/CV (if applicable).
3. An application form (for hard copy applications only).

You will be prompted to answer the following online questions in your own words (not AI generated responses) for Questions 2, 3 & 4. Your responses form part of your application assessment.

• Q1 Do you hold a current West Australian 'C' or 'C-A' class Licence, or equivalent?

If selected for an interview please note that for each of the below questions you may be required to provide the name, organisation and email address of the manager/supervisor who can verify your example.

• Q2 Many children in therapeutic care have experienced challenges. Please provide an example of building and repairing a relationship with a young person from Aboriginal or another diverse group to help them feel safe, valued and supported? (Criteria 1, 2 & 5)
• Q3Why is supporting others to achieve positive outcomes important to you? Please provide an example and advise of the cultural considerations you have made to meet young person's cultural needs. (Criteria 1, 4, 5)
• Q4 Why is it important to have a strong team in the workplace? Provide an example of your ability to work therapeutically as a team member and how you have resolved conflict in the workplace. (Criteria 3, 5)

For technical difficulties while applying online, general recruitment enquiries, or to request any document in an alternative format, please contact 

In line with Communities policies, applicants may be asked for consent to undergo criminal record screening and integrity checks during the application process. For more information click here.

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

Equality 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 HR at  If you are an Aboriginal person 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.