Domestic & Family Violence Specialist - Persons Using Violence

About the role

Relationships Australia Queensland (RAQ) is seeking a Domestic and Family Violence Specialist to work with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) on its DFV Co-Response pilot in Cairns. The specialist works alongside police during call-outs, providing trauma-informed care, safety planning and evidence gathering. The position is part-time (4 days per week) until 30 September 2027.

Key responsibilities

• Take part in a mobilised response to DFV incidents with QPS and follow up with a non-mobilised post-crisis intervention.
• Assess and manage risk for the person using violence, focusing on the safety of the victim-survivor and children, and conduct DFV assessments to identify who needs protection.
• Provide trauma-informed counselling and case management, including warm referrals to perpetrator intervention programs where appropriate.
• Advise QPS so it can exercise discretion to charge an offence or issue a Police Protection Notice.
• Take part in Community Coordinated Response networks with police, magistrates and NGOs, and debrief with QPS to improve responses.

Required profile

• Qualified in a human services field and/or relevant DFV experience.
• Experience in human services such as psychology, mediation, counselling or social work.
• Experience providing advocacy, information, referral and/or counselling to people affected by DFV.
• Ability to work a rotating roster with on-call duty, regular weekends and evenings (penalty rates apply).

Required skills

• Sound knowledge of the DFV service response system and relevant legislation, including the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act (2012) and the Child Protection Act 1999.
• Understanding of DFV risk assessment and management for both victim-survivors and users of violence.

What we offer

• Salary from $104,000 plus superannuation (pro rata for part-time), negotiable.
• Salary packaging of up to $15,900 per year.
• Three extra paid leave days over Christmas and annual leave loading.
• Up to 2 weeks of paid study leave each year and paid parental leave.
• Medical insurance discounts and access to an Employee Assistance Program.

To apply, send a resume and a brief cover letter through the online application form; applications close 15 November 2026.