The Role

We are looking for a motivated Intensive Foster and Kinship Care Practitioner to join the Foster and Kinship Care Team at Mercy Community for the provision of high-plus support. This permanent full-time position will be based in our Ipswich office, supporting the Greater Ipswich area.

The Intensive Foster and Kinship Care Practitioner is responsible for leading and supporting the intervention planning to ensure high quality out-of-home care and support for children, young people with their carers / families and where possible, to bring about therapeutic change as informed by the MC Model of Practice which is needs-based, trauma sensitive and relationship/attachment focused in order to assist them to reach their full potential.

Key Selection Criteria:

To be eligible for this position you will require: 

Level 3:

3 or 4 year tertiary qualification in Social Work, Behavioural Sciences, Psychology or related discipline

Level 4:

Relevant 3 year degree with at least 2 years’ previous relevant experience, or 4 year degree with at least 1 year’s previous relevant experience.

• Demonstrated experience in positive behaviour management strategies and support.
• Demonstrated experience in providing case assessment/work services to children and families within a child protection framework.
• Experience in child and carers’ intervention plans based on assessments within a structured assessment framework.

Both Levels:

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the developmental needs of children and young people, the impacts of trauma, and the resulting emotional and behavioural issues and the ability to build positive relationships with children and young people in care.
• Demonstrated experience in the support and mentoring of children and young people in out of home care.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse, evaluate and make objective judgements, and the ability to articulate recommendations for carer assessments within a structured assessment framework.
• An understanding of QLD child protection processes including a sound knowledge of, and sensitivity to, the range of issues impacting upon vulnerable families, young people and children, including cross-cultural awareness.
• An understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and societies and the issues which impact upon them in contemporary society together with a commitment to culturally appropriate engagement and practice.
• Evidence of current vaccination against whooping cough or willingness to obtain prior to commencement.
• You must hold a current Queensland Provisional Green or above Driver’s License.
• You must hold a positive notice in the Working with Children Check (Blue Card) and be able to obtain a positive Police Check and any other legislatively required personal history screening as required.

What we offer

We understand that finding the right organisation and the right team is just as important as finding the right role. As a valued employee of the Mercy family, you will enjoy:

• Increased take home pay with our salary sacrificing benefits – up to $15,900 per annum and
• Up to $2,650 of your pre-tax income to pay for entertainment (meals, holiday accommodation etc).
• Access to novated leases for a motor-vehicle to reduce your taxable income.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Additional training and education into our industry.
• A growing organisation with a strong reputation in the industry.

This position offers a competitive salary of $67,579 - $79,811 gross per annum in line with level 3 to 4 of our Enterprise Agreement (dependent on qualifications and experience). You will also have the opportunity to increase your take-home pay by salary sacrificing and other benefits.

About Us

Mercy Community is a Catholic faith based not-for-profit organisation, focused on the provision of innovative and responsive services in the areas of child protection, multicultural community support, family mental health, community and residential based aged care and disability support services. We are a strongly committed team that works hard and truly lives our values – Mercy, Acceptance, Excellence, Dignity, Empowerment and Integrity.

We are committed to actively and positively contributing to the quality of life and wellbeing of the people we support and to embrace our community diversity in all its forms. We encourage you to visit our website to find out more about Mercy Community.

How to Apply

Hit apply now! Applications must be completed online and include an updated resume and a response to the Key Selection Criteria above in your cover letter (maximum 2 pages).

Please Note: Mercy Community has implemented a new COVID-19 Vaccination Policy in Australia that requires all new Mercy Community hires to show proof of being fully vaccinated from COVID-19, or have an approved medical exemption by 23 January 2022. Mercy Community’s culture and community encourages all applicants to be part of an organization that promotes a diverse and safe workplace environment.