Family Support Specialist - DFV_GC

Job Posting Organization:
54 Reasons is one of the largest providers of Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) refuge services in Queensland and is a proud part of the Save the Children Australia Group. Established with the mission to ensure that children and young people have their rights met and thrive, 54 Reasons operates across various regions, remote areas, and capital cities in Australia. The organization is dedicated to advocating for children's rights and providing quality services to children and their caregivers, reflecting the communities they serve. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 Reasons values diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexuality, cultures, and beliefs, creating a strong and united team committed to making a positive impact in the community.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position is a casual role within the DFV Refuge and Mobile Support team in Gold Coast, aimed at creating lasting change for children affected by domestic and family violence. The role offers flexibility in work hours, accommodating programs that operate on weekdays or weekends. The specialist will report to the Team Leader and provide outreach short-term case management support to women and children experiencing domestic and family violence or homelessness due to DFV. The position emphasizes the importance of immediate support, risk assessments, and developing strong networks and referral pathways to achieve desired outcomes for clients. The specialist will also be responsible for collecting and recording information for accountability, evaluation, and reporting purposes, ensuring that the services provided are effective and impactful.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will have a range of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Providing immediate support to women and children impacted by domestic and family violence.
• Conducting thorough risk assessments when domestic and family violence is identified.
• Developing and maintaining strong networks and referral pathways to support desired outcomes for clients.
• Collecting and accurately recording information for accountability, evaluation, and reporting purposes.
• Collaborating with other team members and stakeholders to ensure comprehensive support for clients.
• Engaging in continuous professional development to stay informed about best practices and relevant research in the field of domestic and family violence.
• Participating in team meetings and contributing to the overall effectiveness of the team.
• Upholding the values and mission of 54 Reasons and Save the Children Australia in all interactions with clients and colleagues.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a passionate and confident DFV specialist with strong knowledge of domestic and family violence and its impact on families and communities. Candidates must have experience working with women, children, and young people who have experienced domestic and family violence. A demonstrated understanding of best practices, professional standards, and relevant research in the field of domestic and family violence is essential. Additionally, candidates must possess a current valid driver's license and be committed to making a positive change in the community.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor of Social Work, Psychology, or a relevant Human Services qualification. Alternatively, significant experience working in a similar service may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of domestic and family violence and providing effective support to clients.

Experience:
The role requires candidates to have relevant experience in working with women, children, and young people who have experienced domestic and family violence. This experience should include knowledge of best practices and professional standards in the field, as well as an understanding of how cultural contexts influence practice approaches. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to provide effective support and case management in challenging situations.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with clients and colleagues. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in communities with diverse linguistic backgrounds, as they can enhance the ability to connect with clients from various cultural contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position is casual, offering flexibility in work hours across programs that operate on weekdays or weekends. It is a genuine requirement of this position that it be filled by a woman, as permitted in sections 25, 104, and 105 of the Anti-Discrimination Act, 199

• The organization offers an award rate salary (currently Level 4.1 – $58.38 per hour with penalty rates as appropriate) and full salary packaging benefits. Employees also receive extra leave to ensure optimal performance, internal employment and development opportunities, and supportive management through professional supervision training and monthly sessions. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring a supportive environment for all employees.