Youth Worker

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organization, 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 advocate for children's rights, 54 reasons operates across every state and territory in Australia, providing quality services to children and their caregivers. The organization emphasizes the importance of the child's voice and aims to make a significant impact in the lives of children and young people, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. Established with a focus on social justice, 54 reasons employs approximately 600 people and is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, reflecting the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Youth Worker position is a part-time, fixed-term role that involves working four days a week for seven hours each day until June 30th, 202

• The primary focus of this role is to support the Mobile Youth Outreach service as part of the Short-Term Remand Pilot Project. The Youth Worker will engage with children, young people, and families in the Wagga Wagga region, delivering mobile programs that include assertive outreach, in-school and after-school programming, and community events. The role requires the ability to utilize group facilitation skills and various creative digital technologies from the Mobile Youth Van to effectively connect with children and young people. The Youth Worker will report to the Team Leader and will play a crucial role in building meaningful relationships with clients, particularly those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, to help them navigate challenges and lead brighter futures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Youth Worker will be responsible for a variety of duties, including but not limited to: supporting Mobile Youth Outreach in-school and after-school programming, facilitating community events, and providing community-based group work. The role also involves co-facilitating activities, liaising with 54 reasons staff to support referral pathways, and completing client transport as required. Building respectful and meaningful connections with children, young people, and families is a core responsibility, particularly with those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds. The Youth Worker will also be expected to engage in ongoing communication with team members and contribute to the overall goals of the Short-Term Remand Pilot Project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Youth Worker position must demonstrate experience in working with young people and families who have experienced trauma, as well as experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families. Knowledge and experience in the areas of Tolland and/or Ashmont in Wagga Wagga are also required. Additionally, candidates should have experience in facilitating training and/or group-based service delivery. A Certificate IV or Diploma level qualification in Youth Work or a related field is essential, along with a high level of communication and organizational skills. A valid driver's license and a willingness to drive a van are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Youth Worker position includes a Certificate IV or Diploma in Youth Work or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of youth work, particularly in relation to trauma-informed practices and culturally responsive approaches when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Candidates should have a solid grounding in theories and practices relevant to youth engagement and support.

Experience:
The position requires demonstrated experience in working with young people and families, particularly those who have faced trauma. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging effectively with children and young people, especially from diverse backgrounds. Experience in facilitating group activities and training sessions is also essential, as the role involves co-facilitating community-based programs and outreach efforts. Familiarity with the local context of Wagga Wagga, particularly in areas such as Tolland and Ashmont, will be beneficial for the successful candidate.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with children, families, and team members. Additionally, knowledge of Aboriginal languages or cultural competency may be considered advantageous, as it can enhance the Youth Worker’s ability to connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is part-time and fixed-term, requiring the Youth Worker to work four days a week for seven hours each day until June 30th, 202

• The role is designed to support the Mobile Youth Outreach service, which is part of a broader initiative aimed at reducing the overrepresentation of Aboriginal young people in avoidable short-term remand situations. The organization offers an award rate salary (SCHADS Level 3.1, currently $40.49 per hour) along with access to full PBI salary packaging benefits. Employees are supported through monthly individual and group supervision sessions, and there are opportunities for internal employment and development. The organization promotes workplace wellness and offers a confidential Employee Wellbeing Program. 54 reasons encourages diversity and inclusion within its workforce and actively seeks to create a supportive environment for all employees.