Family Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
54 Reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organization, established as a not-for-profit entity that is part of the Save the Children Australia Group and a 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, including remote areas and capital cities. The organization focuses on providing quality services to children and their caregivers, emphasizing the importance of the child's voice in all its programs and support services.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position is part of the newly launched Ohana Academy, a holistic educational and wellbeing program aimed at supporting young people in contact with the youth justice system in Cairns. The role involves providing Integrated Case Management to these young individuals through various methods, including flexible engagement, holistic assessment, therapeutic case planning, and mentoring. The specialist will work collaboratively with a team of teachers, youth support staff, and family support personnel to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and skill development. The position is available in both full-time and part-time capacities for a maximum term of 12 months, with a strong possibility of extension until December 202

• The Family Support Specialist will play a crucial role in strengthening family capabilities and promoting positive outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged clients.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Strengthening family capability through partnership-based, outcomes-focused, strengths-oriented, and client-centered practices.
• Collaborating with colleagues to deliver programs and support services that promote positive parenting and child wellbeing.
• Providing holistic case management to support vulnerable clients and enhance relationships that lead to positive outcomes.
• Identifying client strengths and collaboratively setting program goals, regularly reviewing progress towards these goals.
• Delivering evidence-based information, guidance, and educational resources to clients.
• Recognizing when additional support or external services are needed and providing appropriate referrals and assistance.
• Engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth and families, applying trauma-informed practices in daily work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Family Support Specialist position must possess proven skills and experience in supporting young people involved with the justice system, particularly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. A demonstrated background in youth work and/or case management is essential, along with experience in applying trauma-informed practices. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of complex intergenerational trauma and the ability to engage families using a strengths-based approach. Strong interpersonal skills are necessary for establishing collaborative goals with families.

Educational Background:
While specific educational requirements are not explicitly stated, candidates are expected to have relevant qualifications in social work, psychology, or a related field that supports their ability to work effectively with youth and families in a case management context.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience in youth work or case management, particularly in contexts involving young people who are in contact with the justice system. Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is highly valued, as is familiarity with trauma-informed practices and strengths-based engagement strategies.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages may be considered advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The Family Support Specialist role is a full-time or part-time position with a maximum term of 12 months, potentially extending 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 are provided with individual learning plans for career development, additional leave options, and access to a free Employee Wellbeing Program. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates to apply. All employees must undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check, and adhere to the Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.