Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) - Level 7.1

Job Title: Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA)

Location: Canberra Rape Crisis Centre

Reports to: CEO

Position Type: Full-time

Level: MEA Award Grade 7.1 ($58.23 per hour, plus Super)

CRCC is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, cultural background, veteran or disability status. Due to the nature of the role CRCC is seeking a female identifying person for this position.

The Organisation

The Canberra Rape Crisis Centre (CRCC) is a non-government, feminist organisation working to eliminate sexual violence against women, young people, children and men. We provide confidential counselling and support for victim survivors of sexual violence and their families who have experienced any form of sexual assault and/or sexual harassment recently or in the past, and practical support for victim survivors who have experienced childhood sexual abuse or ritual abuse, recently or many years ago.

We provide crisis support and a 24-hour crisis callout service through the Forensic & Medical Sexual Assault Care (FAMSAC) and/or Sexual Assault & Child Abuse Team (SACAT) services.

Our Crisis phone support is available from 7am until 11pm, 7 days a week.

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) to provide specialist support to survivors of sexual violence to navigate the system. The ISVA will provide advocacy, information, and support to help clients make informed decisions regarding their safety, well being, and legal options.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee the development, design and delivery of the program.

Implement a coordinated, multidisciplinary and trauma informed service response to sexual assault and victim survivors.

Lead consultation processes to understand stakeholder needs, concerns, and priorities, to maintain positive relationships.

Monitor and evaluate program performance, using data-driven insights for continuous improvement.

Develop strategies to enhance capabilities within teams and individuals.

Work with key stakeholders to assess program effectiveness and make improvements.

Stay up to date on best practices to enhance program effectiveness.

Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with stakeholders to strengthen survivor support networks.

Prepare reports, presentations, and briefs.

Provide trauma-informed, client-led support to survivors of sexual violence.

Offer information about legal processes, including reporting to the police and court proceedings.

Promote equity of access to civil and criminal justice responses, specialist sexual violence services and other supports, for all survivors of sexual violence.

Advocate and assist victim survivors with agencies such as the police, health care, access to legal support, housing and other social supports.

Provide advice and continuous support for sexual violence victims through out their engagements, using a trauma informed approach.

Conduct risk assessments and develop safety plans tailored to individual client needs.

Work in partnership with multi-agency networks, ensuring survivors receive coordinated care and protection.

Provide referrals to the appropriate support services tailored to the individual needs and circumstances of the victim survivor.

Maintain accurate case records and adhere to confidentiality and safeguarding protocols.

Deliver training and awareness sessions on sexual violence to professionals and community groups.

Contribute to building a coordinated, multidisciplinary and trauma informed response to victim survivors.

Key Selection Criteria

A strong commitment to feminist principles including a strong ethic of confidentiality and the ability to work within a human rights framework.

Leadership experience.

Experience in program design and delivery.

Experience working with survivors of sexual violence, domestic abuse, or trauma-related services.

Understanding of the criminal justice system, particularly in relation to sexual violence cases.

Strong advocacy and communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with a range of professionals.

Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and risk assessments.

Ability to work independently and manage a caseload.

Commitment to equality, diversity, and trauma-informed practice.

Computer literacy and an ability to keep good records and data.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Behavioural competencies in alignment with the CRCC Values

A demonstrated knowledge of cultural appropriateness and awareness

Ability to manage stress and to deal with complex situations

Willingness to work out of hours when required and to participate in the rostered activities of the organisation

A genuine commitment and interest in working in a community based feminist organisation.

Current drivers licence

Valid WWVP card

Special conditions

This is a woman-only position under s 34 (1) of the Discrimination Act 1991 and is a genuine occupational qualification for the position.

Child protection legislation requires that the preferred applicant will be required to undertake an employment screening including a Police check. (Working with Vulnerable People Background Checking ACT of 2011) requires that the preferred applicant will be required to hold a current and valid ‘Working with Vulnerable People' registration as proof of suitable employment screening and background checks.

Qualification & Skills

Tertiary qualification in social work, counselling, psychology, or a related field.

Experience working with diverse communities, including survivors from LGBTQ+, Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds, or those with disabilities.

Knowledge of trauma-informed care approaches and the long-term effects of sexual violence.

Understanding of relevant legislation, including the Victims' Code, Domestic Abuse Act, and Sexual Offences Act.

Training in mental health first aid, crisis intervention, or counselling skills.

Applications close on 30 May 2025

For further information please contact Human Resources Manager, Jana Turk on [email protected].