THE ROLE

Senior Child Protection Practitioner

The Senior Child Protection Practitioner is responsible for supporting and developing Child Protection Practitioners in the integration of theory and practice whilst demonstrating their expertise through case practice and the supervision of child protection practitioners. The Senior Child Protection Practitioner will work collaboratively 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 and to promote the achievement of case plan objectives within specified timeframes. The position will have supervisory responsibility, commensurate with their other duties.

Senior Child Protection Practitioner (Court Officer)

As a Senior Child Protection Practitioner (Court Officer) you will work closely with the Senior Legal Officer to ensure Child Protection Staff across the divisional area receive timely and appropriate legal advice regarding contested and uncontested matters within the Children's Court (Family Division) and other relevant courts and tribunals. You will provide strategic advice in consultation with senior management, conduct litigation and represent the Secretary of the DFFH before the Children's Court (Family Division).

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, including weekends 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 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.

WORKING IN RURAL VICTORIA INCENTIVE
External applicants relocating to a regional area could be eligible for up to $20,500 worth of incentives.  Internal applicants relocating to a regional area could be eligible for up to $15,500 worth of incentives.  If you live and work in an area classified as ‘remote' by the Australian Tax Office, you may also be eligible for additional salary packaging arrangements, such as mortgage interest, rental costs, and residential utilities. 

COVID-19 VACCINATION
The department strongly recommends (but does not mandate) that employees maintain their COVID-19 vaccination status in accordance with current ATAGI (Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation) advice, given their individual circumstances. As of June 2023, DFFH does not require evidence of COVID-19 vaccination status.

HOW TO APPLY

All VPS employees (and ex-VPS employees with extended access to the Jobs and Skills Exchange website) MUST apply via the Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) <https://jse.vic.gov.au/user/login?destination=/new-home-page> portal.

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.