Family Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, established as part of the Save the Children Australia Group and global movement. 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 every state and territory in Australia, providing services to children and their caregivers in various settings, including remote areas and capital cities. The organization focuses on delivering culturally safe, early-intervention support to vulnerable families, particularly First Nations and CALD communities, and is committed to building strong community connections and empowering families through practical guidance and support.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position is a full-time maximum term role based in Mount Isa, aimed at delivering culturally safe, strengths-based support to First Nations and CALD families. The role involves working as part of the Family & Child Connect team to create lasting change for children and families. The specialist will be responsible for assessing family needs, developing practical support plans, and advocating for families to access appropriate services. The position emphasizes the importance of building trusted relationships with families and service partners, maintaining accurate documentation, and meeting program and organizational requirements. The specialist will utilize their expertise in family support and early intervention to navigate complex situations and promote self-determination among families.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will be tasked with delivering culturally safe, strengths-based support to First Nations and CALD families. Key responsibilities include:

• Building trusted relationships with families, communities, and service partners to foster collaboration and support.
• Assessing the needs of families and developing practical, family-led support plans tailored to their unique circumstances.
• Connecting families with the right services and supports, advocating on their behalf to ensure they receive the assistance they need.
• Maintaining accurate documentation and records to meet program and organizational requirements, ensuring compliance with relevant policies and procedures.
• Engaging in ongoing professional development to enhance skills and knowledge in family support and early intervention practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Family Support Specialist position must meet the following qualifications:

• Identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and/or CALD, as permitted under relevant legislation.
• Proven experience working with children and families in community, family support, or early intervention settings.
• Strong understanding of cultural safety, trauma-informed care, and strengths-based practice.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with families and service partners, demonstrating respect and cultural responsiveness.
• Relevant qualification in Community Services, Social Work, or a related field, or a willingness to work towards obtaining such a qualification.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Family Support Specialist position includes a relevant qualification in Community Services, Social Work, or a related field. Candidates who are currently pursuing such qualifications or are willing to work towards them may also be considered. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of family support and early intervention practices, particularly in culturally diverse contexts.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have experience working with children and families in community, family support, or early intervention settings. This experience is crucial for effectively assessing family needs, developing support plans, and navigating the challenges faced by vulnerable families. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of cultural safety and trauma-informed practices, as well as the ability to build trust and rapport with families from diverse backgrounds.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with families and service partners. Additionally, knowledge of languages spoken within First Nations and CALD communities may be considered advantageous, as it can enhance the ability to connect with families and provide culturally responsive support.

Additional Notes:
The Family Support Specialist position is a full-time maximum term role, expected to last until December 202

• The organization offers a generous award rate salary (Level 4.1 – currently $44.58 per hour) plus superannuation and full salary packaging benefits. Employees also receive a generous annual remote location allowance, contributions towards domestic flights for continuous service, and five weeks of annual leave, along with additional leave options to support employee wellness. The organization promotes a highly inclusive culture and diverse workforce, reflecting the communities served, and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates. All employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check, and must adhere to the Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.