THE ROLE

The Child Protection Practice Leader, Transitioning Aboriginal Children to ACCOs provides expert advice and supports the Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCO) to expand either their case contracting program or their Aboriginal Children in Aboriginal Care program. This role is pivotal to support the department's commitment that all Aboriginal children are managed by an ACCO and work to increase the number of Aboriginal children able to have case management and decision making to an ACCO.

The Aboriginal Children in Aboriginal Care program is enabled under s.18 of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (Vic). It empowers the ACCO to make decisions by supporting the authorisation process to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal children in the Child Protection and Care systems. In consultation with the ACCO, the Practice Leader collaborates with the broader Child Protection program to identify and prepare children to be transferred to the ACCO. 

The role may require you to work across multiple Areas/Divisions to undertake case management tasks to support the transfer of children to ACCOs.

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.

The Practice Leader (ACCO) will carry a caseload commensurate with their other duties. This role will have some case planning responsibilities (in consultation with the Team Manager) and will be expected to work closely, collaboratively and effectively with child protection practitioners at all levels. This role does not involve any formal supervisory responsibilities and is expected to be the first point of contact for ACCO related issues.

ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDE

1. Critical Assessment and Reflection
   Engaging in risk assessment and analysis as well as case management, reporting and engaging in reflective practice.
2. Engaging Others
   Engaging with children, their families and support networks. Collaborating with other practitioners and services and sharing knowledge.
3. Delivering Results
   Problem solving, making informed practice decisions, delivering improvements, and managing budgets to achieve best outcomes.

Please open the position description to read more.

 Regional Retention Allowance

Under the Victorian Public Service Enterprise Agreement 2024, child protection practitioners may also be eligible to receive a regional retention allowance. Click here to find out more 

A SPECIAL MEASURE PROVISION APPLIES TO THIS ROLE
The Equal Opportunity Act 2010, provides for lawful 'Special Measure' provisions, therefore the following has been applied to this role. 
This is a Designated role - Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

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-check 
For more information on what this means, and all other requirements, please see the Position Description.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants 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.