Youth Specialist - Intensive Bail Initiative

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, established as part of the Save the Children Australia Group and a global movement dedicated to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. The organization operates across every state and territory in Australia, providing quality services to children and their caregivers in various settings, including regions, remote areas, and capital cities. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons is committed to making a significant impact in the lives of young people and families, particularly those involved with the youth justice system.

Job Overview:
In this full-time contract position, which runs through to the end of September 2025 with potential for extension, the Youth Specialist will be part of the Intensive Bail Initiative Team based in Mount Isa. The role focuses on providing wrap-around support services to young people who have come into contact with the youth justice system, specifically those who have bail conditions that need to be met. The ultimate goal of this position is to decrease the number of children and young people being remanded in custody and to reduce youth reoffending. The Youth Specialist will work closely with young people, their families, and other stakeholders to ensure that the needs of the young people are met and that they receive the necessary support to navigate the complexities of the justice system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Youth Specialist will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Providing intensive case work support to young people involved in the youth justice system, ensuring that they receive the necessary follow-up and referrals to specialist services.
• Delivering culturally responsive services by incorporating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into the design, delivery, and evaluation of programs and services.
• Offering case management support that is collaborative, coordinated, and centered around the needs of the client.
• Supporting young people in meeting their individual needs, fostering their self-reliance and independence.
• Monitoring and evaluating program outcomes to ensure effectiveness and to inform future service delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate skills and experience in working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, particularly those in contact with the justice system. Additionally, experience in youth work or case management roles is essential. A strong understanding of complex intergenerational trauma and child protection concerns is required, along with a commitment to responding safely and effectively to these issues. Candidates should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, sound time management and organizational skills, and the ability to manage and plan their own workload effectively.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in social work, psychology, or a related field is likely preferred, given the nature of the work and the need for understanding complex social issues and trauma.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in youth work or case management roles, particularly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively in challenging environments, especially in remote and rural settings.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for communication purposes. Knowledge of Aboriginal languages or cultural competency may be considered advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time contract position with a duration through to the end of September 2025, with the possibility of extension. The role is based in Mount Isa, Queensland, Australia. The organization offers a generous salary package, including full salary packaging benefits, additional leave options, and support for workplace wellness. Employees are also provided with professional supervision training and opportunities for career progression within one of Australia’s largest non-profits. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring a supportive environment for all employees.