Initial Assessment & Planning Worker

The Salvation Army; Barwon; On-site; AUD 74,000 - 77,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax‑f​r

Meal entertainment benefits

Generous Paid Parental leave

Purchased Leave Scheme

5 days paid leave per year to work in/

Access to EAP and health & wellness

Flexibile working arrangements

Ongoing training and development

Diverse and inclusive workplace

Job summary

The Salvation Army is seeking an Initial Assessment & Planning Worker to be the first point of contact for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of housing loss. You will assess needs, provide guidance, and connect clients with suitable services to pursue stability and long-term housing outcomes.

Reporting to the Team Leader, this is a fixed-term full-time role based in Geelong, VIC for 6 months. The SCHADS Award Level 5 applies, with hourly rates of $53.43–$55.85 plus superannuation

Qualifications

• A minimum Diploma of Community Services qualification
• Previous minimum two years' experience in homelessness services sector - Access Point related work preferred
• Ability to understand and respond to the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness
• Demonstrated knowledge of homelessness including context, causes, issues, philosophies and legislation
• A current Employee Working with Children Check

Responsibilities

• Provide compassionate intake, assessment, information, and referral services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing crisis
• Conduct comprehensive assessments, including risk assessments, to identify client needs and develop appropriate support pathways
• Deliver crisis intervention, advocacy, and practical support using strengths-based and solutions-focused approaches
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community services and support networks to connect clients with the right resources
• Maintain accurate client records, reporting, and data collection while ensuring compliance with program guidelines and service standards

Education

Diploma of Community Services

Job description

Number of Positions Available: 1

ABOUT US

The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

Make a real difference where it matters most

Every day, people and families face the uncertainty of homelessness.

At The Salvation Army (Salvos), we believe everyone deserves the dignity, safety, and security of a place to call home. As one of Australia's largest providers of homelessness services, we're committed to walking alongside people during some of the most challenging times in their lives. If you're passionate about helping others navigate crisis and connect with meaningful support, we'd love to hear from you.

About the role

As an Initial Assessment & Planning Worker, you will be the vital first point of contact for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their housing. Your ability to listen, assess needs, provide practical guidance, and connect people with the right services will make a lasting impact from day one. You will support individuals and families to explore pathways toward stability, safety, and long-term housing outcomes.

Reporting to the Team Leader, this is a fixed-term full-time position, contracted for 6 months, based in Geelong, VIC.

Conditions

Compensation is in accordance with the SCHADS Award Level 5. $53.43 – $55.85 hourly + superannuation based on experience level and qualifications, exclusive of penalties, allowances, NFP salary packaging.

How you will make an impact

• Provide compassionate intake, assessment, information, and referral services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing crisis
• Conduct comprehensive assessments, including risk assessments, to identify client needs and develop appropriate support pathways
• Deliver crisis intervention, advocacy, and practical support using strengths-based and solutions-focused approaches
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community services and support networks to connect clients with the right resources
• Maintain accurate client records, reporting, and data collection while ensuring compliance with program guidelines and service standards

What you will bring

• A minimum Diploma of Community Services qualification
• Previous minimum two years' experience in homelessness services sector - Access Point related work preferred
• Ability to understand and respond to the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness
• Demonstrated knowledge of homelessness including context, causes, issues, philosophies and legislation
• A current Employee Working with Children Check

What we offer

The Salvos offer eligible employee's a well-balanced package of meaningful benefits including:

• Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefits
• Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities
• Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports such as: Burra Burra Network (pastoral care network), Cultural Events, Sorry Business and Ceremonial Leave (up to 10 days)
• Ongoing training and development opportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency
• Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people. The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check. We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration At the Salvos, we believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. And it is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

Mission, Vision & Values

The Salvation Army is a Christian movement dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus. We share the love of Jesus by: Caring for people Creating faith pathways Building healthy communities Working for justice When you work with the Salvos, you help make a real difference to the community and the lives of others. Find more information here. Check out how we’re bringing some more good in the world.

Why work with the Salvos?

The Salvation Army offers a range of employment opportunities across the organisation, including those in community programs, aged care, retail, employment services, corporate and other support services. When you choose to work with the Salvos, you choose to believe in doing good that transforms the lives of people and communities facing hardship or crisis. So, if you are passionate about work that has purpose and satisfaction, are keen on delivering social and sustainable outcomes that change lives, we want to hear from you.

Our employees have access to a range of benefits, plus personal development and career diversity opportunities that deliver real and meaningful benefits. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and a healthy work-life balance, generous salary packaging opportunities, parental leave, purchase leave schemes and much more.

The Salvation Army encourages people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that accepts and recognises every person, embraces their strengths and differences, and provide opportunities for all people to achieve their highest potential.

Check out our career page to find out more about our recruitment process and what its like to work at the Salvos. We are always on the lookout for individuals keen to help us fulfil mission to support those in need. Along with contributing their valuable time to a good cause, volunteers bring much-needed vitality and a fresh perspective through their ideas to the range of roles we have on offer. Whatever your skillset, availability, or areas of interest, we are keen to hear from you. Check out our volunteer opportunities here.