Family Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, proudly 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 mission to provide quality services to children and their caregivers, 54 reasons operates in every state and territory, as well as across regions, remote areas, and capital cities. The organization has a workforce of approximately 600 employees, reflecting a diverse range of backgrounds, talents, and experiences, which is essential for the challenging work they do.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position is a part-time role within the FCS Brighter Beginnings Program, which serves families with children aged 0 to 5 years who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing vulnerability in the Murrumbidgee region. The program aims to provide early assessments of needs and support families to remain safe and well, thereby averting the need for statutory intervention. The role involves engaging with Early Childhood Education Centre (ECEC) services, particularly focusing on Aboriginal ECEC services, to enhance service delivery to families. The specialist will provide practical advice, resources, and referrals to support services, as well as deliver information sessions to foster a connected service system for families seeking assistance. This position is crucial for creating lasting change in the lives of children and their families.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Engage and build relationships with Early Childhood Education Centre (ECEC) services, including preschools and childcare centres in the Murrumbidgee area.
• Provide outreach to ECEC services, prioritizing Aboriginal ECEC services where possible.
• Increase service delivery to families with children aged 0-5 years.
• Assist families in staying connected to ECEC services by offering practical advice, resources, and warm referrals to relevant support services.
• Deliver information sessions for staff and families within ECEC services to foster a more connected service system.
• Utilize trauma-informed practices and a strength-based approach when working with families.
• Maintain accurate data collection and record-keeping, including case noting.
• Enter and maintain information in an electronic database.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and work independently when necessary.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in using trauma-informed practice.
• Proven experience in employing a strength-based approach when working with families.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish collaborative goals with families.
• Experience working as part of a team and the ability to work collaboratively as well as independently.
• Demonstrated experience in data collection and record-keeping, such as case noting.
• Ability to enter and maintain information in an electronic database.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in social work, psychology, early childhood education, or a related field is likely preferred to effectively support families and children in this role.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in working with vulnerable children and families, particularly in the context of early childhood education and support services. Candidates should have a solid understanding of trauma-informed practices and experience in collaborative goal-setting with families.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Knowledge of Aboriginal languages or cultural competency may be considered advantageous, especially when working with Aboriginal ECEC services.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time position, working on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, with a maximum term until 31st December 202

• The role offers a generous award rate salary (Level 4.1 – currently $44.58 per hour) along with full salary packaging benefits. The organization emphasizes professional development through individual learning plans, supportive management, and access to a confidential Employee Wellbeing Program. The organization encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.