Therapeutic Support Worker

Position Title: Therapeutic Key Worker

Work Type: Part-time | Casual

Days/Hours: Flexible includes some evenings and weekend work.

Location: South/South East Melbourne(with induction/training at 29 Foote Street, Templestowe Lower, VIC)

Categories: Child, Youth and Families – Residential/Community Services

Reports to: Therapeutic Lead

About Empower YOUth

Empower YOUth OoHC Services is dedicated to improving the lives of young people through trauma-informed, research-driven programs. Our mission is to empower youth by providing innovative, supportive, and hands-on learning experiences that foster growth, resilience, and life skills.

About the Opportunity

Empower YOUth is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Therapeutic Key Worker to join our trauma-informed team. In this vital role, you'll provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions and strategies directly within participants' homes, schools, and community settings. Your focus will be on supporting young people with complex needs, helping them build resilience, emotional regulation, and positive relationships.

You'll work independently, managing a small caseload to ensure each participant receives tailored, person-centred support. Reliability, commitment, and a proactive approach are essential, as you'll often be the consistent, trusted adult in a young person's life. In return, you'll be welcomed into a supportive and collaborative work environment that values your wellbeing and professional growth. We offer ongoing training, regular supervision, and a strong culture of teamwork.

At Empower YOUth, we walk alongside you as you walk alongside our participants—ensuring you always feel supported, respected, and empowered to make a meaningful difference.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Support and

Delivery:

*Provide one-on-one, trauma-informed support to children and youth, focusing on hands-on

*Encourage curiosity through the use of therapeutic play.

*Assist in the delivery of healing, ensuring safety, comfort, and wellbeing.

Behaviour Support:

*Implement behaviour support plans and therapeutic strategies as directed, tailored to each participant's needs.

*Monitor and document behavioural observations, progress, and engagement in activities.

Environment & Resources:

*Ensure activity spaces are safe, organised, and well-stocked for each session.

*Make effective use of local resources (libraries, community centres) to enhance the support experiences.

Collaboration & Communication:

*Work closely with caregivers, team members, and external professionals to support holistic care planning.

*Maintain clear, professional communication and accurate, confidential case notes.

Qualifications & Skills

* Minimum Certificate IV in a relevant field (child care, youth work, disability, community services) required.

* Experience supporting children/youth, ideally in a therapeutic, educational, or residential setting.

*Interest in hands-on, project-based learning and willingness to get creative with activities.

* Knowledge of (or willingness to learn) behaviour support strategies.

*Strong interpersonal skills—friendly, empathetic, and able to build rapport with young people.

* Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

*Commitment to Empower YOUth's values of empowerment, thriving, acceptance, and resilience.

What We Offer

* Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.

* Flexible, family-friendly hours.

* Ongoing professional development and training in therapeutic and trauma-informed practices.

*A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative team environment.

How to Apply

Ready to help empower young people in your local community? Please upload your:

Cover letter (1 page outlining your suitability for the role)

Current resume (max 3 pages)

Contact: Empower YOUth T: E:

Empower YOUth is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Type: Casual

Pay: $37.50 – $41.50 per hour

Licence/Certification:

• First Aid Certification (Preferred)
• Working with Children Check (Required)
• National Police Certificate (Required)
• Driver Licence (Required)

Work Authorisation:

• Australia (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 75% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person