Senior Child Protection Practitioner (Community Based)

THE ROLE

The Senior Child Protection Practitioner (Community Based) is an outposted child protection position that will work as a part of a team from the Support and Safety Hub (Hubs) in the local area. The position will report to the Team Manager (Support and Safety Hubs). The position will be required to, at times, attend the local Child Protection office for child protection related activities and meetings. Working within a multi-disciplinary setting, the SCPP (Community Based) will provide expert advice, support and consultation to Hubs staff, as well as to Family Services, Specialist Family Violence Services and Men's Services, where there are significant concerns for the wellbeing of children and young people.

The position will work collaboratively with the services to support earlier and more effective intervention to vulnerable children, young people and their families and, where required, support the engagement of families with services. Work will include direct involvement with unborn children, when there is a high likelihood of child protection intervention post birth. The position will also be required to contribute to the development and delivery of community education to agencies regarding child protection statutory processes and responsibilities.

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.  

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

• Child-centred and family-focused relationship-based practice: assists others to reflect on interpersonal interactions, encouraging self-reflection to enhance relationships and communication
• Problem solving: encourages staff to use reflective practice and theoretical frameworks when analysing problems
• Practice leadership: expertly translates best practice principles and legislative requirements to apply in practice
  Please open the position description to read more.

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.