Youth Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, 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, including in remote areas and capital cities. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons embraces diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexuality, cultures, and beliefs, creating a strong and united team focused on making a difference in the lives of children and young people.

Job Overview:
In this full-time, maximum term role based in Kununurra, you will work in our intensive youth mentoring programs, supporting young offenders aged 10-18 in partnership with local youth justice stakeholders. The primary aim is to reduce re-offending by engaging and building rapport with at-risk children, young people, families, and community members. You will provide practical support, mentoring, and advocacy for young people and their families, particularly those with complex needs. This role is designed for someone who is calm under pressure, flexible, and has a positive impact when working with traumatized youth. You will be part of the Kununurra Case Work Team and report to the Team Leader, contributing to the overall mission of the organization to ensure that children and young people thrive.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Engage and build rapport with at-risk children and young people, families, and community members to foster positive relationships.
• Support young people in increasing their safety, positive community engagement, life skills, and cultural connection.
• Provide practical support, mentoring, and advocacy for young people and their families, particularly those with complex needs.
• Collaborate with government and non-government services to work towards common goals and improve outcomes for young people.
• Participate in case management processes and contribute to the development of individual support plans for young people.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of interactions and progress in accordance with organizational policies and procedures.
• Attend regular team meetings and participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated skills and experience in working with young people, particularly Aboriginal young people.
• Proven experience in case management and the ability to navigate complex situations.
• A minimum of a Diploma in Youth Work, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field, or significant equivalent experience.
• A valid driver’s license is required for this position.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse groups.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a Diploma in Youth Work, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field. Equivalent experience may also be considered, but formal education in these areas is preferred to ensure a solid understanding of the principles and practices relevant to youth work and support.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in working with young people, particularly those from Aboriginal backgrounds. Experience in case management is essential, as the role involves navigating complex needs and collaborating with various stakeholders to support youth effectively. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with at-risk populations and implementing strategies to reduce re-offending.

Languages:
While there are no specific language requirements mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of Aboriginal languages or cultural competency may be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to connect with the local community and the youth served.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time, maximum term role with a contract duration until June 2027, with the potential for permanency. The position is based in Kununurra, Western Australia, and offers an award rate salary (Level 4.1 – currently $44.58 per hour) plus full salary packaging benefits. Additional benefits include a generous annual remote location allowance, one return economy flight to Perth (or other cities by negotiation) per 12 months of continuous service, five weeks of annual leave, supportive management with professional supervision training, and access to an Employee Wellbeing Program. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander backgrounds.