senior tristate community worker

Department for Child Protection

Job reference: 708269

Location: ALICE SPRINGS

Job status: Long Term Contract

Eligibility: Open to Everyone

Full-time term vacancy available until 30 September 2026

Play a critical part in promoting best practices and safeguarding children's welfare.

Employer contribution of 12% towards your superannuation.

Role Details:

Join a passionate cross-border team driving change for children and families in Central Australia. Based in Alice Springs, the Senior Tristate Community Worker plays a key role in shaping a new approach to child protection through collaboration between South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. Working alongside the NPY Women's Council, you'll help create a hub that strengthens community connections, supports Anangu families, and delivers better outcomes through shared learning, partnership, and respect for culture.

Living in Alice Springs means immersing yourself in the heart of Australia's outback, a place rich in culture, community, and natural wonder. Surrounded by the breathtaking MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs offers a unique lifestyle where vibrant town life meets extraordinary landscapes. From hiking desert trails and exploring art galleries to enjoying lively markets and festivals, life here is full of colour, adventure, and connection to Country.

Working in Alice Springs gives you the chance to make a real difference in one of the most unique and rewarding settings in Australia. Our office works closely with Aboriginal communities and partner agencies to deliver meaningful outcomes for children and families across the central desert region. If you're ready for a career that combines purpose with adventure, where every day brings new experiences and lasting impact, Alice Springs is waiting for you.

Make Your Qualification Go Further

Same degree, more reward. At DCP, social workers receive the highest pay in the SA Government, thanks to an exclusive 4% allowance permanently secured in our Enterprise Agreement. Combine that with up to $2,500 annual professional development support, clear pathways for advancement, and the chance to leave a lasting legacy in child protection, and your qualification goes further here than anywhere else.

Why Work with DCP?

At the Department for Child Protection, you'll find more than just a job. You'll discover a career where your skills are valued, your impact is meaningful, and your rewards are unmatched.

We play a key role in protecting children, young people, and their families in South Australia, providing support to help vulnerable individuals be safe, strong, and connected.

What We Offer

• Employee Wellbeing: Free annual flu vaccination, Employee Assistance Program (confidential counselling for you and your family), and other wellbeing initiatives.
• Career Development: Permanent roles, annual increments, up to $2,500 in professional development support, and clear career pathways.
• Parental & Partner Leave: Paid leave options to support you and your family.
• Recognition: Annual DCP Recognition Awards celebrating staff excellence.
• Learning & Development: Strong commitment to ongoing professional growth and learning opportunities.

Income & Benefits

• Salary: AHP2: $91,785 – $106,330 p.a. + 12% super
• Exclusive Allowance: Extra 4% for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement, making DCP the highest-paying government employer in SA
• Professional Development (PD) – a $1,000 allowance increasing incrementally each year + reimbursement of PD expenses up to $1,000 (AHP2 level)
• Additional Qualifications Allowance
• Support – free counselling and wellbeing services for you and your family.
• Recognition – annual DCP Recognition Awards celebrating staff excellence.

In this role, you will:

• Lead collaboration across SA, WA, and NT child protection systems to support families in the NPY region.
• Work closely with NPY Women's Council and local communities to deliver culturally responsive services.
• Coordinate shared information, advocacy, and referral pathways to improve outcomes for children.
• Develop strategies and preventative programs that strengthen Anangu family functioning.

To be successful:

You are an experienced practitioner who thrives in collaborative, community-based environments. You bring strong knowledge of child protection practice, a deep respect for Aboriginal culture, and a commitment to supporting families in complex and remote contexts.

You are skilled at building relationships, navigating systems, and finding solutions that balance care, advocacy, and accountability. Confident in both independent and team settings, you take initiative, communicate clearly, and adapt to dynamic cross-jurisdictional work. If you're driven by purpose and partnership, we encourage you to apply.

Special Conditions:

Essential: A degree level qualification in Social Work which gives eligibility for full membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers

To find out more about this role, including the key selection criteria and special conditions, please click on the attached role description.

Enquiries: Victoria Cobb - Manager - Coober Pedy on or email:

The department values an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity and strongly encourages applications from people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and people from the LGBTQI+ community.

To apply for this role, please click the 'apply' button to be re-directed to the DCP Career Portal.

Applications close: 16/11/2025 11:00 PM