Family Support Specialist - SEQ Refuges

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is one of the largest providers of domestic and family violence (DFV) refuge services in Queensland, Australia. It is a leading child rights organization that is part of the Save the Children Australia Group and a global movement dedicated to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. The organization operates across every state and territory in Australia, providing quality services to children and their caregivers, including in remote areas and capital cities. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons is committed to making a difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence.

Job Overview:
The Family Support Specialist position is a part-time, permanent role based in the Moreton Bay region. The role involves working within a team to provide case management and safety planning support to women and children who are escaping or experiencing domestic violence. The position includes minimal rostered on-call responsibilities and reports to the Team Leader. The specialist will facilitate safe accommodation for women and children, conduct thorough risk and needs assessments within a trauma-informed framework, and work with families to find appropriate, sustainable accommodation free from violence. This role is crucial in helping families connect with services that meet their needs, thereby making a significant impact on their lives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Family Support Specialist include:

• Facilitating the provision of safe accommodation to women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
• Conducting thorough risk and needs assessments to understand the specific circumstances of each family.
• Working within a trauma-informed case management framework to ensure that the support provided is sensitive to the experiences of domestic violence survivors.
• Collaborating with families to source appropriate, safe, and sustainable accommodation options.
• Connecting families with relevant services to meet their diverse needs.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case records and documentation.
• Participating in team meetings and contributing to the development of best practices in service delivery.
• Engaging in ongoing professional development and training to enhance skills and knowledge in domestic violence support.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in case management, particularly in the context of domestic and family violence.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation pertaining to domestic violence and child protection.
• Understanding of the impact of domestic violence on women and children, and the ability to apply this understanding in practice.
• Experience working with families from diverse cultural backgrounds, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and awareness.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to effectively collaborate with colleagues and external stakeholders.
• A current driver’s license is essential for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a tertiary qualification in a relevant field, such as social work, psychology, or community services. Alternatively, significant experience in a similar service may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of domestic violence and the needs of affected families.

Experience:
The role requires demonstrated experience in case management, particularly in the area of domestic and family violence. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the challenges faced by women and children in these situations and be able to respond effectively to crisis and complex situations. Experience working with diverse populations is also essential, as the role involves engaging with families from various cultural backgrounds.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Additional language skills may be considered advantageous, particularly if they align with the cultural backgrounds of the families served.

Additional Notes:
This position is part-time and permanent, operating on a 9-day fortnight schedule. The role is based in the Moreton Bay region of Queensland, Australia. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it is a genuine requirement that this position be filled by a woman, as permitted under sections 25, 104, and 105 of the Anti-Discrimination Act, 199

• The organization offers a range of employee benefits, including annual professional development funding, a generous salary, extra leave options, and support for workplace wellness. Employees are also required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check as part of the hiring process.