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. 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 assessments, therapeutic case planning, and mentoring. The specialist will work collaboratively with a team of educators and support staff to create a nurturing environment that fosters healing and skill development for the youth. The position is available in both full-time and part-time capacities, with a maximum term of 12 months and a strong possibility of extension until December 202

• The ideal candidate will be innovative, compassionate, and dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of young people.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Family Support Specialist will be responsible for a range of duties aimed at strengthening family capabilities and promoting child and family wellbeing. Key responsibilities include: applying partnership-based, outcomes-focused, strengths-oriented, and client-centered practices; collaborating with colleagues to deliver programs and support services; providing holistic case management to vulnerable clients; identifying client strengths and collaboratively setting program goals; delivering evidence-based information and educational resources; recognizing when additional support or external services are needed and providing appropriate referrals; and engaging in group-based activities to help clients learn new skills and heal from trauma. The role requires a strong commitment to culturally respectful practices and the ability to work effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates 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 in daily work. The ideal candidate should 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 and fostering positive relationships.

Educational Background:
While specific educational requirements are not explicitly stated, candidates are generally 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. Additional training or certifications in trauma-informed care or youth work may be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience in youth work or case management, particularly with young people who have been in contact with the justice system. Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is highly valued, as is a background in applying trauma-informed practices in a professional setting. Candidates should demonstrate a history of successful engagement with vulnerable populations and the ability to navigate complex family dynamics.

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 an asset, enhancing the ability to connect with and support the community served by the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time or part-time role with a maximum term of 12 months, with the possibility of extension until December 202

• The organization offers a generous salary at Level 4.1, currently $46.70 per hour, plus superannuation and full salary packaging benefits. Employees are provided with individual learning plans for career development, extra leave options, and access to a confidential Employee Wellbeing Program. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and ensuring a supportive environment for all employees. All employees must undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check as part of the hiring process.