Family Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is one of the largest providers of Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) refuge and outreach services in Queensland. It is part of the Save the Children Australia Group, which is a leading child rights organization in Australia. The organization operates across various states and territories, providing quality services to children and their caregivers. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons is committed to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. The organization emphasizes the importance of a diverse workforce and aims to create a supportive environment for all employees.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position is a part-time, maximum-term role based in Gold Coast, Australia, with a focus on providing outreach crisis support to women and children experiencing Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) and/or homelessness due to DFV. The role involves working 68.4 hours per fortnight across 9 rostered days, with flexible working hours that may include evenings and weekends. The specialist will be part of the ReachOut team, dedicated to creating lasting change for children and families affected by DFV. The position requires a strong commitment to client-centered approaches, risk assessments, safety planning, and developing partnerships to connect clients with necessary support services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will be responsible for providing immediate support to women and children impacted by domestic and family violence. Key duties include conducting risk assessments and safety planning, developing strong partnerships and referral pathways to connect clients with appropriate information and services, and collecting and recording information for accountability and reporting purposes. The specialist will also be expected to utilize a strengths-based perspective and client-centered approaches in their work, ensuring that the needs and rights of clients are prioritized. Additionally, the role involves engaging with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, understanding how cultural contexts influence practice approaches.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Family Support Specialist position must possess a deep expertise in domestic and family violence, with a strong knowledge of its impact on women, children, and communities. A current valid driver's license is required. The position also requires a Bachelor of Social Work, Psychology, or a relevant Human Services qualification, along with significant experience working in the domestic and family violence sector. Knowledge of best practices, professional standards, and relevant research in the field is essential, as is demonstrated experience working with CALD communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a relevant qualification in Human Services. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of domestic and family violence and for effectively supporting clients in crisis situations. Candidates with significant experience in the domestic and family violence sector may also be considered, even if they do not hold a formal degree.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience working with women, children, and young people who have experienced domestic and family violence. This experience should include a strong understanding of the challenges faced by these populations and the ability to provide effective support and intervention strategies. Familiarity with best practices and professional standards in the field of domestic and family violence is also necessary, as is the ability to engage with diverse communities and understand their unique needs.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with clients and colleagues. Additionally, knowledge of other languages, particularly those spoken by CALD communities, would be considered advantageous and beneficial for the role, as it would enhance the ability to connect with a broader range of clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is part-time and maximum-term, with a contract duration until 30 June 202

• The role operates on a flexible schedule, with working days potentially scheduled from Monday to Sunday, and hours may vary based on program needs. The organization offers an award rate salary of $46.70 per hour, along with access to full PBI salary packaging benefits. Employees are also entitled to extra leave options, professional supervision training, and support for workplace wellness. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and ensuring a supportive environment for all employees.