THE ROLE

Child Protection Navigator is a Practice Leader Position dedicated to the Family Preservation and Reunification Response. The Child Protection Navigator supports activation of the Response and right time, with the right people and in the right place to promote and protect the rights and best interests of children and young people. The Child Protection Navigator will model and enhance trauma informed, culturally safe and responsive practice that is child and family centred, relational and evidence-informed and integrated to improve outcomes of child safety, wellbeing and development. The Child Protection Navigator provides a unique opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families and has a strong focus to develop a connected and coordinated practice culture and mindset shift of Response practitioners within child and family services and Child Protection practitioners working together.

The role may also undertake case practice quality audits and provide regular practice forums and reflective practice sessions. A core requirement of this role includes a case carrying component, commensurate with other 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

• Risk assessment and analysis: provides support, guidance and advice to the broader sector and community partners/stakeholders. Further develops and coach's others in their understanding of risk assessment and analysis.
• Case planning review and case management: directly supports and inputs into cases where there is unacceptable risk to the child.
• Problem solving: understands the broader issues and political dimensions of a problem. Creates an environment that allows for proactive and shared problem solving, supporting the team to use their strengths to resolve issues. Encourages staff to use reflective practice and theoretical frameworks when analysing problems. Understands the breadth and scope of problems and can identify when consultation is necessary. Understands the broader issues and political dimensions of a problem.
• Practice leadership: expertly translates best practice principles and legislative requirements to apply in practice.
• System leadership: uses formal and informal relationships to build buy-in and support from key internal and external clients or stakeholders.

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.

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.