Family Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
54Reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organization, 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, 54Reasons embraces diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexuality, cultures, and beliefs, reflecting the communities they serve. The organization is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children and families, emphasizing the importance of child rights and protection.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position within the Secondary Family Support Program at 54Reasons offers an exciting opportunity for candidates to engage in meaningful work that supports families with children aged 0-18 years. The role involves providing case management services through a child rights lens, aiming to create positive and sustainable long-term changes for children and young people. The position is full-time and maximum term, available until December 2027, with the possibility of extension. The specialist will work as part of the Secondary Family Support team in Brisbane, focusing on developing rapport with families and children, addressing barriers in housing, parental capacity, community access, education, and child development. The role requires a strength-based, trauma-informed, and child-centered approach to develop case management goals and support families in achieving these goals, including making referrals to other services as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will be responsible for providing comprehensive support to families, children, and young people using a case management framework. Key duties include:

• Supporting families in addressing barriers related to housing, parental capacity, community access, education, and child development.
• Developing rapport and positive working relationships with families and children in alignment with the organization's practice frameworks, including the Cultural Framework and Child Protection Practice Framework.
• Utilizing a strength-based, trauma-informed, and child-centered approach to establish case management goals.
• Assisting families in meeting their case management goals and making appropriate referrals to other services when necessary.
• Collaborating with team members and other stakeholders to ensure a holistic approach to family support.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case records and documentation in compliance with organizational policies and procedures.
• Participating in training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge in child rights and family support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or another relevant Human Services Degree. Additionally, experience working with families, children, and young people is essential, with a preference for candidates who have experience in case management. A thorough understanding of child rights, child protection, and child safeguarding practices is also required. Candidates must hold a current Working with Children’s Check and a valid Driver's License.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field within Human Services. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of family dynamics, child development, and the legal and ethical considerations involved in child welfare and protection.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience working with families, children, and young people, particularly in the context of case management. Experience in early intervention services and working with diverse backgrounds is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges faced by families and the ability to implement effective support strategies.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with families and team members. Additional language skills may be considered advantageous, especially in communities with diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time maximum term role available until December 2027, with the possibility of extension. The organization offers an award rate salary of $44.58 per hour, along with access to full PBI salary packaging benefits. Employees are encouraged to engage in individual learning plans for career development and have access to a free, confidential Employee Wellbeing Program. The organization promotes a highly inclusive culture and celebrates diversity within its workforce, allowing employees to bring their whole selves to work. The application process is designed to be straightforward and accessible for all candidates, with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.