Job Description

Employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at Ngwala is essential to maintaining culturally aligned services. We STRONGLY encourage Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people to apply for this role and others as they become available.

About Ngwala:

Ngwala Willumbong is a leading provider of culturally safe and effective support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to supporting individuals affected by alcohol and other drug misuse, providing them with pathways to recovery through holistic and culturally appropriate rehabilitation programs.

About the Role:

Specialist Family Violence Practitioners work with victims (and their children) to identify both immediate and medium-term goals with the focus on reducing risk, regaining control, and setting a course for healing and recovery. The practitioner is to develop case plans that document the plan and goals for the support period with victim survivors. This role is critical in providing direct support to victim survivors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide crisis response, risk assessment, and case management for women and children escaping family violence.
• To treat and support clients with family violence related issues, including but not limited to:

1. Liaise with the community and various agencies and provide referrals
2. Provide referrals to culturally appropriate agencies, resources and funds and accommodation assistance.
3. Assist and co-ordinate the client intake and reporting process using the Ngwala SHS Assessment Tool
4. Assist clients to make and review their individual treatment plans (ITPs) and support clients to achieve set goals
5. Advocate on behalf of clients where appropriate (this may include attending court, etc.)
6. Regularly contact client regarding treatment, care and discharge planning

• Work within the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment and Management (MARAM) and the Family Violence Information Sharing Scheme (FVISS)
• Co-ordinate casework plans, to include initial contact, assessment, case plans, reviews and exit plans.
• Provide individual assessments and therapeutic counselling and group work (as per the Family Violence Intervention Program (FVIP) guidelines).
• Support the delivery of clinical services and any group-work (as required) for survivors and their children involved in family violence.
• Inform clients about crime-victim rights, Domestic Violence Protection Orders and civil-law options.
• Provide regular and ongoing face-to-face contact with clients at locations they feel most safe and comfortable.
• Complete the Safety Plan Form and review it as needed (including immediate needs and threats) with clients (and their dependents) following a family violence incident.
• Correspond with and assist Victorian Police and clients in family violence matters where necessary.

Skills & Experience:

• Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal history and/or culture and commitment to the Aboriginal community
• Experience in family violence crisis intervention and case management.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in intake and assessment, case planning in relation to family violence, service provision, safety planning, managing a case load and client advocacy.
• Understanding of risk assessment, trauma-informed care, and family violence frameworks.
• Knowledge of MARAM framework (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment and Management Framework)
• Ability to work in high-pressure environments while managing a complex caseload.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong organisation and time management skills
• Skills in working independently, generally within defined guidelines, and as a team member
• Willingness and ability to work within and contribute to the vision, purpose and core values of the organisation.
• Proficiency in computer skills, including the Microsoft Office suite and client management systems.
• Competent in using a mobile phone, apps, and all aspects of computer operation.
• Able to work independently with multiple clients when necessary.
• Compassion and a willingness to learn.

Mandatory Requirements:

• Current Victorian driver's licence
• National Police Certificate (not older than 3 months)
• Victorian Employment Working with Children Check
• AQF Level 7 or above qualification related to family violence

What We Offer:

• Full-Time role, Monday - Friday 9am-5pm
• SCHADS Level 4
• NFP Salary Packaging Benefits up to $15,900
• An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• A supportive and culturally inclusive work environment.
• Ongoing professional development and training.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey and promoting cultural safety, we would love to hear from you. Please provide the following:

• A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for this role
• A resume which outlines your educational and employment background

*Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit pre-employment checks including a Police Check (no older than 3 months), Victorian Employment Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check*.