Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker - Illawarra Shoalhaven

NSW Department of Communities and Justice; Coniston; On-site; AUD 89,934 - 116,969; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training and development opportunities

Health & wellbeing programs

Flexible work environment

Job summary

NSW Department of Communities and Justice is seeking to fill a role focused on working with vulnerable children and families in New South Wales. The position aims to promote safety, wellbeing, and cultural connection while addressing cycles of disadvantage. Candidates are required to have relevant qualifications or sufficient experience, along with a strong commitment to Aboriginal community engagement. An attractive package, including competitive pay and development opportunities, is offered.

Qualifications

• At least two years' experience working with vulnerable children, young people, and their families if the relevant qualification is not held.
• A valid driver’s licence.
• A paid working with children clearance number.
• Documented verification of Aboriginality.

Responsibilities

• Work sensitively and respectfully with parents, children, or young people.
• Develop safety plans and complete risk assessments.
• Manage cases including working with high-needs and high-risk clients.
• Engage in court processes and participation in supervision.

Skills

Building positive working relationships with the Aboriginal community

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Complex problem solving

Case management

Education

Relevant diploma or degree qualification

Job description

Employment Details

Employment type: Ongoing. Salary: $89,934 – $116,969 pa plus superannuation and annual leave loading.

Eligibility

This position is open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons. Verification of Aboriginality is required; acceptable evidence includes a confirmation form or written confirmation from 2–3 Aboriginal organisations, confirming descent, identification and community acceptance.

Under Section 14(d) of the Anti‑Discrimination Act 1977, this role is exempt as a genuine occupational qualification.

About the Role

Working in partnership with families, children and communities to promote safety, wellbeing and cultural connection, and to break cycles of disadvantage.

What You’ll Do

• Work sensitively and respectfully with parents, family members, children or young people.
• Work in partnership with other agencies and engage in complex problem solving.
• Walk alongside families to set goals that build on their strengths, addressing safety and well‑being concerns, and provide appropriate assistance through home visits.
• Develop safety plans and complete risk assessments.
• Manage cases and situations including working with high‑needs and high‑risk clients and their families.
• Be involved in court processes, including the preparation of court documents and attending court.
• Participate in individual and group supervision.
• Participate in Aboriginal cultural supervision.

Essential Requirements

Applicants should have:

• A relevant diploma or degree qualification (preferred).
• At least two years’ experience working with vulnerable children, young people and their families if the relevant qualification is not held.
• The ability to build positive working relationships with the Aboriginal community, supported by excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A valid driver’s licence.
• A paid working with children clearance number.
• Documented verification of Aboriginality – confirming that you are an Aboriginal person of Aboriginal descent and that you identify as being Aboriginal.

What We Offer

• A challenging and rewarding career.
• Flexible, autonomous work environment.
• Competitive pay and conditions.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Health & wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programs.