Family Services Practitioner
Location: Portland VIC 3305
Employment Type: Full-time, Fixed Term (until 30 April 2028)
Organisation: Dhauwurd-Wurrung Elderly & Community Health Service Inc. (DWECH)
About Us
Dhauwurd-Wurrung Elderly & Community Health Service Inc. (DWECH) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) and is committed to creating positive and fulfilling lifestyles for individuals and families. The organisation provides a range of services including Primary Health Care, Social & Emotional Well Being, Family Services, Youth Services and Home & Community Care.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples strongly encouraged to apply.
Summary:
The Family Services Practitioner supports families facing complex challenges to improve the safety and wellbeing of children. Working collaboratively with parents, the role focuses on strengthening parenting capacity, building resilience and reducing risks—particularly within the local Aboriginal community. The practitioner delivers tailored casework, and when appropriate, group programs and community engagement activities to build skills, confidence, and stronger community connections that enhance overall family functioning.
Responsibilities:
- Provide case management, crisis response and outreach using effective therapeutic approaches to engage children, young people and families.
- Complete comprehensive assessments to identify risks, strengths and areas for change.
- Build respectful, honest working relationships and support positive family connections.
- Promote positive parenting skills through individual support and group programs.
- Work collaboratively with Child Protection, other professionals and family networks to ensure coordinated support.
- Contribute to a strong multidisciplinary team, attend supervision and participate in ongoing professional development.
- Maintain accurate case notes, records and data, and undertake other duties as required.
Qualifications:
- Qualification in youth, community, social work or related field, or willingness to obtain.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants strongly encouraged.
- Understanding of local Aboriginal culture and ability to engage effectively with community.
- Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism and respectful practice.
- Cultural Safety/Awareness training, or willingness to complete.
- Ability to obtain a Police Check and Working With Children Check.
- Willingness to participate in training, including First Aid/CPR and Emergency Management (as required).
- Current Victorian driver’s licence.
We encourage people to apply early, as applications will be reviewed as they are received. Although the position will remain advertised for three weeks, interviews may begin as suitable applications come in, and an appointment may be made prior to the advertising period closing.
Applications Close: 9/3/2026
Salary: In line with the SHADS Award, dependent on qualifications and experience.
