We currently have a fixed term full-time position available as Lead Family Practitioner within the Putting Families First (PFF) program based in Shepparton.

The Lead Family Practitioner is responsible for supporting families who have come into contact with the Child Protection and Justice systems. PFF offers an opportunity to divert these families from avoidable use of tertiary services by intervening earlier and providing holistic support that addresses the risk factors that increase the likelihood of future contact with the system. The Lead Family Practitioner will work in collaboration with other members of the integrated interdisciplinary team to provide holistic support to families and extended family members.

It is essential that you hold a minimum Diploma level qualification in a relevant field and have experience and knowledge in the youth services field, particularly outreach and case management models.

For further information about the role please visit www.thebridge.org.au/employment

To apply for this role, please submit your current Resume and Cover Letter, as well as your responses to each of the Key Selection Criteria detailed below.

Key Selection Criteria:

An appropriate tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Services or a related discipline is essential.

Understanding and working knowledge of:

long-term and intergenerational impacts of the service system on vulnerable children, young people and families

Intergenerational and intrafamilial drivers of disadvantage

Experience in intensive and complex case management

Experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary team and/or in a consortium would be highly regarded

Working in child, youth and families sector working with highly complex families

Extensive experience and comprehensive understanding of Child and Family Services, the Child Protection system and court orders

Solid understanding of the principles and challenges of supporting vulnerable families and knowledge of Child Protection issues in relation to children ‘at risk’

An understanding of cultural contexts and the unique needs of Aboriginal children and young people, their families, and communities

An understanding of cultural contexts and the unique needs of CALD children and young people, their families, and communities

Good communication, organisational and written skills

Effective network development skills

Strong knowledge of child development and family relationship dynamics, especially for families experiencing crisis and vulnerability, and ‘at risk’ children, young people, and families

Sound computer skills, including the Microsoft Office suite and email, plus familiarity with web-based information management, communications, and accounting system