Job Description

Role Purpose

The Residential Youth Worker provides high-quality, trauma-informed care and supervision to children and young people living in residential care settings. This role is responsible for supporting their daily living needs, promoting emotional and physical wellbeing, and creating a safe, stable, and supportive home environment that encourages development, participation, and positive outcomes in line with their care plans.

Key Responsibilities

Care and Support

• Provide day-to-day care for young people in line with their individual care or case plans.

• Support young people with personal care, routines, hygiene, nutrition, and household tasks.

• Build positive relationships based on trust, consistency, and professional boundaries.

• Support young people’s education, recreation, employment, and social development.

Behavioural and Emotional Support

• Implement behaviour support strategies and therapeutic approaches as outlined in care plans.

• Provide emotional support and role-modelling to assist young people with coping strategies and self-regulation.

• Respond to crises or incidents in a calm, safe, and structured manner.

• Document and report behaviours of concern in line with organisational and statutory requirements.

Communication and Documentation

• Maintain accurate shift notes, incident reports, case notes, and handover documentation.

• Participate in case meetings, debriefings, and training as required.

• Communicate effectively and respectfully with young people, families, team members, and external stakeholders.

• Support multidisciplinary collaboration with Child Safety, therapists, and allied professionals.

Compliance and Safeguarding

• Adhere to organisational policies, the Child Safety Standards, and relevant legislation.

• Comply with mandatory reporting responsibilities for suspected abuse or neglect.

• Maintain confidentiality and uphold the rights and dignity of young people in your care.

• Ensure care is culturally appropriate and considers each young person’s identity and background.

Health and Safety

• Participate in risk assessments and implement WHS protocols in the home environment.

• Ensure the home is safe, clean, and complies with licensing requirements.

• Use PPE appropriately and follow infection control and first aid procedures.

• Report hazards, incidents, or injuries immediately to your supervisor.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential:

• Passion for working with children and young people with complex needs and backgrounds of trauma.

• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, youth development, and child protection frameworks.

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with young people in a respectful, supportive manner.

• Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively in crisis situations.

• Valid Blue Card (Working with Children Check) and NDIS Worker Screening (if applicable).

• Current First Aid and CPR Certificate.

• Valid Driver’s Licence.

Desirable:

• Certificate IV or Diploma in Youth Work, Community Services, or equivalent.

• Experience in residential care, child protection, or youth support services.

• Mental Health First Aid and/or training in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI).

• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.