Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker

Overview
Aboriginal Caseworker - Illawarra/Shoalhaven
We are recruiting for a recruitment pool to fill future vacancies in Shellharbour, Wollongong, Ulladulla & Nowra. This is an Identified role open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons. Where a position is identified, an applicant's race is a genuine occupational qualification under the exception in Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.
Working for the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) provides opportunities to make a real difference. We collaborate with other agencies and community partners to improve lives and realise the potential of children, adults, families and communities. Our focus is on breaking, rather than managing, disadvantage and keeping families together so that children thrive at home.
Our priority is the safety, welfare and wellbeing of children or young people. We believe more Aboriginal caseworkers help Aboriginal kids grow up safely at home with their mob.
What You'll Do
Work sensitively and respectfully with parents, family members, children or young people
Collaborate with other agencies and engage in complex problem solving
Assist families in formulating goals that address safety and wellbeing, with home visits and appropriate assistance
Develop safety plans and complete risk assessments
Manage cases involving high needs and high-risk clients and their families
Be involved in court processes, including preparation of court documents and attendance
Participate in individual and group supervision
Being an Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker can be challenging and may require tough decisions to help families care for their children and develop safe, loving homes.
What We're Looking For
To be a Child Protection Caseworker you need to be confident, curious and resilient. Essential requirements include:
A relevant diploma or degree qualification is preferred
Applicants without a relevant qualification require at least two years' experience working with vulnerable children, young people and their families
Ability to build positive working relationships with excellent verbal and written communication skills
A valid driver's licence
A paid working with children clearance number
Documented verification of Aboriginality confirming you are Aboriginal
Role
There are two acceptable ways to confirm Aboriginality to be considered for the role:
Confirmation of Aboriginality form
Written confirmation from 2–3 Aboriginal organisations within your community addressing: (i) Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent, (ii) identification as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, (iii) community acceptance
Click here to view the role description and further information about the assessment process. Click here to hear from our Aboriginal Caseworkers.
What's in it for you?
As Australia's top public sector employer, we offer competitive benefits and opportunities including:
Salary from $87,315 to $113,562 per year plus superannuation and annual leave loading
Flexible work arrangements
17 weeks of training in the Caseworker Development Program
customised career development and personal/professional growth support
Generous leave entitlements including flex leave
Wellness culture with Fitness Passport, health app and mental health support
How to apply
Are you ready to join us? Click apply and attach a cover letter (max 2 pages) and an up-to-date résumé (max 5 pages).
Got a question? If you need adjustments in the recruitment process to help you perform at your best (including alternative submission methods), please call Isabelle on or via Visit adjustment in the recruitment process to learn more.
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