The Department of Communities brings together the services and functions of disability services, child protection and family support, housing, community initiatives and regional services reform.

Communities is a nationally recognised Accredited Carer Friendly Employer through the Carers + Employers program. The program defines best practice standards by creating a carer friendly workplace, enabling staff to balance work and care, while continuing to contribute to the wellbeing of individuals, families and the community.

The Location

Please only consider applying for this vacancy if you are interested in working in Kalgoorlie.

Working in the Goldfields: The Department of Communities in the Goldfields covers over 740,000 sq. kilometres - stretching from the pristine white beaches of Esperance, to its heart, the beautiful Kalgoorlie.

Kalgoorlie is a vibrant regional city set against the backdrop of a stunning landscape and vast open plains. As the largest city in the region, it blends dramatic rock formations to endless golden horizons.

Change your lifestyle, grow your career and make a real impact in Kalgoorlie. For further information on living in the region watch this video

The Opportunity

As Child Protection Worker, you will work in the areas of child protection, children in care and family support and will be responsible for:

• responding to concerns regarding the safety and wellbeing of children in accordance with provisions of the Children and Community Service Act 2004,
• taking legal action to promote the safety and wellbeing of children where necessary,
• providing services to children placed in the care of the CEO,
• assisting identified families and their children with relevant Agencies and community resources to ensure appropriate supports are in place,
• engaging and working alongside families to strengthen their capacity to provide care and safety to their members in ways that are sustainable, build resilience in children, families and the community, and ultimately increases social wellbeing.

About You

• You have a demonstrated knowledge of Child Protection and the approaches needed to enhance child safety and wellbeing.
• You have knowledge of, or experience in the engagement, assessment, and intervention with parents, children, and families.
• You have strong communication skills, and demonstrated skills in analysis and intervention planning, as well as the ability to manage multiple and conflicting priorities.
• You have knowledge and understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal and culturally diverse people.

Qualification Requirements

You must have a Bachelors degree in Social Work, Psychology, or relevant human services area to be eligible for this position. All overseas qualifications must be assessed for Australian equivalency. Refer to our website for information about the qualification requirements for this role, and how we will be assessing your qualifications.

We have several vacancies available for filling. Suitable applicants will be placed in a pool from which appointments will be made for fixed term or permanent opportunities that arise within the next 12 months. Fixed term opportunities may have the possibility of extension and/or conversion to permanency.

The following positions are available for immediate filling:

• 020367 - Permanent - Full Time
• 011318 - Permanent - Full Time

The attached Job Description Form (JDF) provides more information about the position. For further information we encourage you to contact Elaine Roche - Assistant District Director - (08) 6215 1224

The Benefits

Working in the Goldfields Region attracts great benefits (subject to eligibility) including:

• District Allowance
• 17.5% Annual Leave Loading
• Generous Personal Leave Entitlements (15 Days per annum)
• Government Regional Officers Housing (GROH) subsidised housing applies for some roles
• Relocation assistance for some roles
• Salary Packaging of Remote Benefits
• Commuted Time off In Lieu (TOIL)
• Bi-annual Free Pass to the Coast
• Cultural Leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Employees
• Personal Leave Travel Time
• Corrective Lenses Subsidies

Join the Department of Communities

Apply online by clicking the ‘Apply for Job’ button (above and below) and provide the following documents in Word or PDF format only:

1. A current resume/CV.
2. A two [2] page written application addressing all the Work Related Requirements (Selection Criteria) as stated on the JDF.
3. A copy of your degree certificate and academic transcript (plus unit descriptors and/or overseas qualification assessment if applicable).
4. An application form (for hard copy applications only).

For technical difficulties while applying online, general recruitment enquiries, or to request any document in an alternative format, please contact Tara Anderson - HR Consultant via email on [email protected].

We can also be contacted via the National Relay Service on the following numbers:

TTY/voice calls - 133 677

Speak & Listen - 1300 555 727

SMS relay - 0423 677 767

Integrity and Honesty

The public sector is built on a strong foundation of integrity where employees act ethically, and public sector bodies promote and maintain integrity.

In line with Communities policies, applicants may be asked for consent to undergo criminal record screening and integrity checks during the application process. For more information on these requirements, click here.

Equity and Diversity

The Department of Communities is committed to improving employment opportunities and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. As a measure to achieve equality and support, section 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA) will apply to this position. Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply.

If you have any access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, or alternative methods of communication, please contact Tara Anderson.

Applicants who would like assistance with your application, please contact Jobs and Skills WA on 13 64 64.

This vacancy is being advertised for a period of 4 weeks, from 7 March 2025, closing on 7 April 2025 4pm. Lodgement is system generated. Any emailed applications or late submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted.