Senior Child Protection Practitioner

Victorian Government - Department of Families, Fairness, and Housing; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Victorian Government - Department of Families, Fairness and Housing in Melbourne is seeking a Senior Child Protection Practitioner (CPP5.1). You will supervise team members and collaborate with the Team Manager to strengthen case practice and service delivery to safeguard children and young people.

A valid Working with Children Check is required, and willingness to travel, including in-country regions. You will engage with Aboriginal communities and apply legislative and policy requirements

Qualifications

• Qualified social work degree or equivalent.
• Experience in child protection or family services preferred.
• Ability to supervise and mentor colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Critical assessment and reflection in case practice and planning.
• Risk assessment and analysis; guide others in understanding risk.
• Case planning review and management for high-risk cases.
• Lead critical inquiry and ensure adherence to best practice and law.
• Provide feedback and support through standardised reporting and reflective practice.

Skills

Supervision

Team collaboration

Risk assessment

Critical thinking

Education

Bachelor of Social Work

Job description

THE ROLETo be an effective Senior Child Protection Practitioner, you will have a strong sense of social justice and understand that families are complex, with their own unique histories. Importantly, you will be able to collaborate with the Team Manager to strengthen case practice, provide effective service delivery and to support other practitioners in the development of plans to bring about the changes necessary to ensure the safety, stability and development of children and young people.At the CPP5.1 Senior Practitioner level, you will supervise team members in daily tasks through a structured and supportive learning program. This role will hold a caseload commensurate with supervisory responsibilities.The transportation of children is a requirement of this role, as such a valid driver's licence and willingness to travel, including in country regions is essential. There may be the requirement to work overnight and, travel in evenings and early mornings. On occasions, additional hours may be required to ensure the wellbeing of children.You will possess an understanding of Aboriginal culture and demonstrate an understanding of the legislative, policy and practice requirements relating to Aboriginal children, families, and communities, including the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle and the programs and initiatives that support its implementation in child protection practice.ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDECritical assessment and reflection*; Risk assessment and analysis: further develops and coach's others in their understanding of risk assessment and analysis*; Case planning review and case management: provides case planning advice, guidance and support to others; directly supports and inputs into cases where there is unacceptable risk to the child*; Critical inquiry: leads planning, review and management of issues in line with best practice principles and legislative requirements*; Standardised reporting: provides critical feedback and opportunities for development Reflective practice: facilitates reflective practice for team membersPlease open the position description to read more.This role requires a Working with Children Check.Further advice on obtaining this check can be found here: https://www.vic.gov.au/working-with-children-checkFor more information on what this means, and all other requirements, please see the Position Description.HOW TO APPLYApplicants are encouraged to apply online. Attachments can be uploaded in .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt or .rtf formats.Applicants are required to submit a CV and Cover Letter (max 2 pages) outlining their suitability to the role in line with the Key Selection Criteria.Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process.Preferred candidates will be required to complete pre-employment screening, including a national police check and misconduct screening.For more information on working with us and our recruitment process, please visit Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Victoria | Jobs (www.dffh.vic.gov.au/jobs)Please apply to submit your interest in this position.