Family Support 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. The organization focuses on providing quality services to children and their caregivers across every state and territory, including remote areas and capital cities. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons emphasizes the importance of diversity in its team, encompassing various races, ethnicities, genders, ages, disabilities, sexualities, cultures, and beliefs. The organization is committed to making a significant difference in the lives of children and families, particularly those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged.

Job Overview:
In this full-time, maximum term position, which extends through to the end of June 2026 with a strong potential for extension, the Family Support Specialist will be an integral part of the Intensive Bail Initiative team in Mount Isa. This role involves working closely with families of young people who have interacted with the youth justice system, providing them with the necessary tools and support to thrive. The position is designed to enhance the safety and wellbeing of children while contributing to the overarching goals of assisting young people in meeting their bail conditions, reducing the number of children remanded in custody, and decreasing youth reoffending rates. The specialist will engage in intensive case work, follow-up, and referrals to other specialist services, ensuring that the voices of children and young people are prioritized and heard throughout the process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will be responsible for a variety of duties, including but not limited to: working directly with families of young people involved in the youth justice system through intensive case management; conducting follow-ups and making referrals to other specialist services as needed; ensuring that the voices of children and young people are actively heard and considered; identifying the strengths of families, establishing program goals, and regularly reviewing client progress towards these goals; providing holistic case management and delivering support to vulnerable and disadvantaged families; and collaborating with external stakeholders to enhance community safety and wellbeing. The role also requires the specialist to maintain accurate records, prepare reports, and engage in data collation and analysis to inform practice and improve service delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess demonstrated experience in case management, particularly within the context of the youth justice system. A strong understanding of relevant legislation and policies is essential, along with a demonstrated experience and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and families. Additionally, candidates should have strong report writing, analytical, and evaluation skills, including the ability to collate and analyze data effectively. The role requires a tertiary qualification in a relevant field or significant experience working in a similar service environment.

Educational Background:
A tertiary qualification in social work, psychology, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with significant experience in case management or working with youth justice systems may also be considered in lieu of formal qualifications. Continuous professional development and training in relevant areas will be encouraged and supported by the organization.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience in case management, particularly with families and young people involved in the youth justice system. Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the challenges faced by vulnerable and disadvantaged families. The ability to work effectively in remote and rural settings is also essential, as the role will involve engaging with families in these areas.

Languages:
While English is the mandatory language for this position, proficiency in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages would be considered an asset. Strong communication skills are essential for building relationships with families and stakeholders, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations is crucial.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a maximum term contract lasting until the end of June 2026, with a strong potential for extension based on funding and performance. The role is classified at Level 4.1, with a generous award rate salary of $44.58 per hour, plus full salary packaging benefits. Relocation assistance is available for candidates moving to Mount Isa. The organization offers additional leave options, professional supervision training, and access to an Employee Wellbeing Program to support workplace wellness. Opportunities for internal deployment and career progression within one of Australia’s largest non-profits are also available.