Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker - Sydney, South Eastern & Northern Sydney

Department of Communities and Justice

26d

About The Position

Working for the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) is about working in partnership with families and communities to thrive. We walk alongside families, children, and communities, working together with other agencies and partners to build on strengths and create lasting change. Our focus is on breaking cycles of disadvantage and supporting strong futures. This is work that truly matters. At DCJ, we believe families are the heart of our work and your cultural knowledge would be invaluable to this work. Our priority is always the safety, wellbeing, and cultural connection of children and young people. We know that when we have more Aboriginal caseworkers, our kids are more likely to grow up strong, safe, and connected to mob. Being an Aboriginal Child Protection Caseworker can be difficult. Sometimes, you may have to make tough decisions with families to help them overcome hardships in order to be able to care for their children and develop safe and loving homes.

Requirements

A relevant diploma or degree qualification is preferred
Applicants without a relevant qualification require at least two years’ experience working with vulnerable children, young people and their families
The ability to build positive working relationships with the Aboriginal community, supported by excellent verbal and written communication skills
A valid driver’s licence
A paid working with children clearance number
Documented verification of Aboriginality - confirming that you are an Aboriginal person of Aboriginal descent and that you identify as being Aboriginal

Responsibilities

Work sensitively and respectfully with parents, family members, children or young people
Work in partnership with other agencies and engage in complex problem solving
Walk alongside families to set goals that build on their strengths, addressing safety and well-being concerns, and provide appropriate assistance through home visits
Develop safety plans and complete risk assessments
Manage cases and situations including working with high needs and high-risk clients and their families
Be involved in court processes, including the preparation of court documents and attending court
Participate in individual and group supervision
Participate in Aboriginal cultural supervision