Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative – Justice and Community Services now has the following vacancies:

Program Manager – Youth and Justice - Readvertised

Full-time, 38 hours a week

This is an Aboriginal Designated Position, classified under 'special measures' of Section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

Previous applicants do not reapply

About the Role

The Program Manager Youth and Justice will ensure all Youth and Justice services are culturally safe for Aboriginal people and are effectively managed and delivered at a high standard in line with Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative (RAC) Strategic Plan.

As a member of the management team this role is key to the development, implementation and monitoring of the Justice and Community Services area business plan. Ensuring alignment with Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative Strategic Plan including polices and processes, other relevant Legislation, Regulations, Accreditation requirements, and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)’s (if applicable).

This role is responsible for day-to-day operational requirements, including but not limited to, all aspects of staffing recruitment, retention, supervision, and performance management. Monitoring compliance, progress and performance and preparation of regular reports on program activities, outcomes, challenges, and achievements.

Provide strong leadership in the development of practice, policies and procedures for the programs and ensure all decision making is culturally safe in line with the best interests of Aboriginal people and self-determination.

About You

To excel in this position, you should possess the following qualifications and qualities:

· You are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

· Qualification in Social Work, Criminology, or related discipline would be well regarded.

· In-depth knowledge of the Victorian Justice system, along with Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (CYFA), and The Child Safe Standards VIC.

· Demonstrated leadership that promotes a healthy work environment, staff growth and retention and attains best possible culturally safe outcomes for community.

· Skills in providing high quality supervision.

· Ability to develop program level budgets and deliver the outcomes within agreed budgets and timelines.

· Ability to manage budgets and reporting to funding bodies within stipulated timelines in collaboration with Finance Team.

· Understanding of the administration of requirements and legal delegations and ability to review and implement in policy.

· Ability to build and maintain high quality collaborative relationship with internal and external stakeholders.

· Demonstrated knowledge of local Aboriginal community and the role Rumbalara plays within our community.

· Evidence of advanced report writing skills.

· Demonstrated understanding of program management including budget, staffing, reporting, accreditation, and program development.

· Demonstrated knowledge of conflict management and resolution.

· Capacity to make balance and sound decisions in high-risk and high-pressure situations.

· Ability to manage crisis with a measured and reflective approach.

· Understanding of debriefing and supporting staff through challenging events.

· Ability to work after hours and on call (when required).

What We Offer:

· Salary packaging of $15,900 available for Part- or Full-time employees.

· Competitive pay and conditions based on the SCHADS Award: Level 8 - Pay Point 1 to Pay Point 3 (based on qualifications and experience).

· Opportunities for additional incentives, which may include Christmas bonus days, recognition of NAIDOC day, periodic adjustments aligned with CPI increases, and the possibility of a relocation allowance when applicable.

· Professional development opportunities and support to help you grow in your career.

· Access to a free and confidential Employment Assistance Program and more.

· Provision of a laptop and mobile phone to support your work where applicable.

· Fleet cars to carry out daily tasks where applicable.

You will be required to undertake a pre-employment screening check, including providing a copy of your Confirmation of Aboriginality.

To apply, please submit:

1. A cover letter that includes:

· Stating who your mob/clan is.

· Your previous experience and/or qualifications.

Your response to the following questions:

· Rumbalara’s Youth and Justice programs are grounded in Aboriginal ways of working, cultural safety, and self-determination. Please describe your experience designing or leading programs that support Aboriginal children, young people, or adults involved in the justice system.

· Describe your understanding of the Victoria Justice System, the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (CYFA), and the Child Safe Standards (VIC). How have you applied this knowledge in a leadership or program management role.

· This role requires strong program management and budgeting skills. Describe a time when you were responsible for managing a program, including budget oversight, reporting to funding bodies, and ensuring outcomes were delivered within set timelines. How did you collaborate with internal stakeholders such as finance and ensure accountability.

Applications close: Sunday 27th of July 2025

This is an “Indigenous Only” role under Special Measures of the EEO Act 2010, Section 12