Initial Assessment & Planning Worker

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

Job summary

The Salvation Army in Geelong is seeking an Initial Assessment & Planning Worker to be the first point of contact for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing housing. You will listen, assess needs, provide practical guidance, and connect clients with the right services.

This fixed-term full-time role is based in Geelong, VIC, with compensation under the SCHADS Award Level 5 and a pay rate of AUD 53.43–55.85 per hour plus superannuation.

Qualifications

• Diploma of Community Services required.
• Minimum two years' experience in homelessness services.
• Knowledge of homelessness context, causes, legislation.
• Working with Children Check required.

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

Skills

Intake and assessment

Crisis intervention

Advocacy

Information and referral

Data collection and reporting

Education

Diploma of Community Services

Job description

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, PurchasedLeave 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 initiativesinclFitness 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 opportunitiesthat enhance onthejob skills and proficiency
• Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careersthat have positive and sustainable / social impacts

Applications will be reviewed as they are received and the position may close once a suitable candidate is appointed. Together, we can create lasting change.

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