Family Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is one of the largest providers of domestic and family violence (DFV) refuge services in Queensland, Australia. It is a part of the Save the Children Australia Group, which is a leading child rights organization. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons operates across various states and territories, providing quality services to children and their caregivers. The organization emphasizes inclusivity and flexibility in its work culture, aiming to create a supportive environment for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position is a part-time permanent role based in Brisbane, requiring 30.4 hours of work per week. The primary function of this role is to provide crisis responses to women and children escaping domestic and family violence. The specialist will be responsible for conducting risk assessments and safety planning, as well as offering case management and referral-based supports within a refuge setting. The role involves working collaboratively within a team and reporting to the Team Leader, with a rotational roster that spans Monday to Sunday between 8 am and 8 pm. The organization values work-life balance and has incorporated considerations to support this, including minimal on-call responsibilities for staff members. The position is designed for individuals who are experienced practitioners with a strong understanding of the impacts of domestic violence on women and children, and who can apply trauma-informed practices effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will be responsible for facilitating safe accommodation for women and children escaping domestic and family violence. This includes conducting thorough risk and needs assessments within a trauma-informed framework, working with families to find appropriate and sustainable accommodation, and connecting them with necessary services. The specialist will collaborate with a team of professionals to provide best-practice, integrated responses to domestic and family violence. Additional responsibilities include maintaining accurate records, participating in team meetings, and contributing to the continuous improvement of service delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor or Diploma in Social Work, Psychology, or a relevant Human Service Qualification. Alternatively, significant experience in a similar service may be considered. A thorough understanding of domestic and family violence, particularly its impact on children, is essential. The role requires strong teamwork and communication skills, as well as a current driver’s license. Cultural sensitivity and the ability to respond effectively in crisis situations are also critical qualifications for this position.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor or Diploma in Social Work, Psychology, or a relevant qualification in Human Services. Candidates with significant experience in related fields may also be considered, provided they demonstrate the necessary skills and knowledge relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have experience working with families from diverse cultural backgrounds and a solid understanding of domestic and family violence. Experience in crisis intervention and case management is highly desirable, as is the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment. Candidates should also have a proven track record of responding effectively in complex and crisis situations.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the role. Additional language skills may be considered advantageous, particularly those that reflect the diverse cultural backgrounds of the families served.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time permanent position with a workload of 30.4 hours per week. The role is specifically designated for women as permitted under sections 25, 104, and 105 of the Anti-Discrimination Act, 199

• The organization offers an award rate salary of $44.58 per hour, with additional penalty rates for evening and weekend work, along with superannuation and access to full salary packaging benefits. Employees are encouraged to engage in additional projects and have opportunities for internal employment and development. The organization also provides professional supervision, wellness support, and extra leave options to ensure employees can perform at their best.