Aboriginal Caseworker Support Program

About the role

The Caseworker Support Program provides intensive casework support, intervention and referral services for young people who experience disengagement, poor school attendance and are in contact with the juvenile justice system, police and/or family intervention services. This is an identified role open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons, based in Parramatta, New South Wales.

Key responsibilities

• Provide effective casework support and make informed decisions and initiate actions in collaboration with the client
• Work collectively with Youth Justice stakeholders
• Monitor case compliance with funding body requirements
• Liaise with family, community and social services as needed
• Engage with schools and build positive relationships with young people
• Contribute to program reporting

Required profile

• Certificate IV, Diploma or Degree in social work, community services or a related field; additional study or experience in trauma-informed care and casework is an advantage
• Aboriginal studies or experience with Aboriginal communities is highly regarded
• Minimum 2 years in a similar case management role
• Experience with young people showing risk-taking behaviour, with youth justice involvement, and aged 12-18 with complex life transitions
• Knowledge of foster care conditions and child protection principles
• Local knowledge of and involvement in the Western Sydney community
• Current First Aid and CPR certificate, Working with Children Check, clear criminal history check, unrestricted NSW driver's licence and eligibility to work in Australia

Required skills

• Strong verbal and written skills and ability to work independently
• Managing children and young people with challenging behaviours and complex needs
• Sound computer literacy
• Decision-making, problem-solving and empathy
• Knowledge of the NSW legal and education systems

What we offer

• Orientation and training program
• Ongoing professional development and mentoring
• Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 wellbeing and crisis support