Senior Child Protection Practitioner (Court Officer)

THE ROLE

Metro Area   

The Senior Child Protection Practitioner (Court Officer) is responsible for the management of legal applications listed to be heard in the Children's Court (Family Division) matters. You will work closely with the Child Protection Litigation Office 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. 

Rural Area 

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 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

• Risk assessment and analysis: further develops and coach's others in their understanding of risk assessment and analysis
• Case planning review and case management: provides case planning advice, guidance and support to others; directly supports and inputs into cases where there is unacceptable risk to the child
• Critical inquiry: leads planning, review and management of issues in line with best practice principles and legislative requirements

Please open the position description to read more. 

Practice Induction Program (PIP) 

All new Child Protection practitioners are required to complete mandatory, full-time five-week Practice Induction Program (PIP). This training is designed to provide new employees with the necessary practice of knowledge and skills relating to the role. This is delivered online and in person with attendance in Melbourne required for some week blocks. Regional employees will be supported with travel and accommodation arrangements.

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.