Impactful Intake Practitioner - Homelessness Services

UnitingCare; Gold Coast City; On-site; AUD 80,000 - 85,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work arrangements

NFP Salary Packaging

Recognition platform

12 weeks paid parental leave

Diversity and inclusive leave

Career development opportunities

Positive and inclusive team

Job summary

UnitingCare Queensland is seeking an Intake Practitioner for the Gold Coast Homelessness Service in Bilinga. This casual role focuses on front‑line intake, triage and risk assessment, supporting clients who are homeless or at risk, and coordinating access to housing services.

You will manage inquiries, collect data in SHIP/QHIP, and work with a team to identify risks and housing goals, while providing compassionate, client‑centred support.

Qualifications

• Minimum Cert. IV in human services or related field.
• Current Drivers Licence, Positive Notice Blue Card.
• Demonstrated competence in oral and written communication including proficiency in Information Technology systems (Microsoft Office).
• Demonstrated experience in the community services sector.
• Ability to engage with people in crisis who present with a range of complex needs.
• Ability to engage with a diverse range of people and display culturally competent practice.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team as well as autonomously.
• Commitment to learning and professional development including supervision.
• Commitment to working within the beliefs and values of UnitingCare Community.

Responsibilities

• First point of contact for walk‑in, phone, and third‑party inquiries to Gold Coast Homelessness Service.
• Respond to clients who are homeless or at risk; conduct screening, triage and risk assessment.
• Provide intake and assessment prior to referral to case management or accommodation services.
• Set up daily drop‑in service and follow up after hours inquiries via phone, email or third parties.
• Manage inquiries by phone, email, walk‑in and third parties (QHIP).
• Capture required data on internal spreadsheets and client management systems (SHIP, QHIP).
• Undertake screening and risk assessment with oversight as required.
• Identify client strengths and needs related to housing barriers and goals.
• Coordinate access to daily practical drop‑in services (breakfast, lunch, shower, laundry, charging).
• Build rapport with individuals and families in crisis and ensure compassionate engagement.
• Demonstrate empathy, advocacy, de‑escalation and conflict resolution skills.
• Collaborate with Regional Manager and staff to identify risks (child protection as applicable).

Skills

Oral and written communication

IT systems usage (MS Office)

Community services sector experience

Engage with people in crisis

Cultural competency

Team collaboration

Education

Minimum Cert. IV in human services or related field

Tertiary qualification in human services or related field desirable

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Job description

UnitingCare Queensland is seeking an Intake Practitioner for the Gold Coast Homelessness Service in Bilinga. This casual role focuses on front‑line intake, triage and risk assessment, supporting clients who are homeless or at risk, and coordinating access to housing services.

You will manage inquiries, collect data in SHIP/QHIP, and work with a team to identify risks and housing goals, while providing compassionate, client‑centred support.