Youth Specialist - Intensive Bail Initiative

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, proudly 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. Established with a mission to advocate for child rights, the organization operates across every state and territory in Australia, providing quality services to children and their caregivers. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment that reflects the communities they serve, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Job Overview:
The Youth Specialist position within the Intensive Bail Initiative Team is a full-time, maximum term role that extends through to the end of March 2026, with a strong potential for extension. This role is centered around providing comprehensive support to young people who are involved in the youth justice system and have specific bail conditions that need to be met. The position is based in Mount Isa and involves working closely with young individuals to ensure they receive the necessary support to comply with their bail conditions. The Youth Specialist will engage in intensive case work, follow-up, and referrals to specialist services, ensuring that the support provided is culturally responsive and incorporates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. The role emphasizes a collaborative, client-centered approach to case management, aiming to empower young people to meet their individual needs and foster their self-reliance and independence. Monitoring and evaluating program outcomes is also a critical aspect of this position, ensuring that the services provided are effective and beneficial to the young people served.

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 they have the resources and guidance needed to meet their bail conditions.
• Conducting follow-up assessments and referrals to other specialist services as necessary, ensuring a holistic approach to the young person's needs.
• Embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into the design, delivery, and evaluation of programs and services to ensure cultural responsiveness.
• Collaborating with young people to develop case management plans that are tailored to their individual circumstances and needs.
• Supporting young people in building their self-reliance and independence through skill development and resource access.
• Monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of programs to ensure effectiveness and to inform future service delivery.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of case work and interactions with young people, adhering to confidentiality and child protection policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Youth Specialist position must demonstrate a strong background in youth work or case management, particularly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. Essential qualifications include:

• Proven experience working with young people in contact with the justice system, showcasing an understanding of the challenges they face.
• A solid understanding of complex intergenerational trauma and its impact on young people's behavior and development.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, enabling effective interaction with young people, families, and other stakeholders.
• A commitment to child protection and the ability to respond safely and effectively to concerns.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage and prioritize a diverse workload effectively.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant qualification in social work, psychology, youth work, or a related field. Candidates should possess a strong theoretical understanding of child development, youth justice systems, and trauma-informed practices. Additional certifications or training related to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities would be advantageous.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 2-3 years of experience in youth work or case management roles, particularly in settings that involve working with young people in the justice system. Experience in providing culturally responsive services and working collaboratively with diverse communities is highly valued.

Languages:
While English is the mandatory language for this position, proficiency in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander languages would be considered an asset and beneficial for effective communication with young people and their families.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a maximum term contract lasting until the end of March 2026, with the possibility of extension based on funding and program needs. The role is based in Mount Isa, Queensland, and involves working in remote and rural settings. The organization offers a generous salary package, including full salary packaging benefits, additional leave options, and access to professional development opportunities. Employees are also provided with support for workplace wellness, including access to a confidential Employee Wellbeing Program. All employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check as part of the organization's commitment to child safety.