Summary

• Full-time opportunity with flexible work arrangements
• Maximum term contract until July 2026, with the possibility of extension
• Work within a values driven, progressive organisation
• Be part of an engaging team that thrives on challenges

About the Opportunity

The Victorian Family Preservation and Reunification Response (the Response) is funded by the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH). The Response is implemented by MCM in Western Metro and North/East Metro areas of Melbourne. Teams are placed within the Family Services area in the Homelessness and Family Services Portfolio. Teams support families where children are subject to an unborn report or are birth to 5-years of age.

The Response:

• Is an innovative approach to delivering relational, evidence-informed and coordinated support to vulnerable children and families through a strengthened partnership with Child Protection;
• Provides responsive, intensive and sustainable support to children and families where children are at imminent risk of entry to care or where safe reunification is appropriate.

The Response Practitioner will deliver rapid, culturally safe, flexible and intensive services to children and families using a case management and care team approach. This includes the provision of therapeutic and trauma-informed supports that engage the voice and choice, cultural identity and lived expertise of children and their families and carers. Response Practitioners will also work within a comprehensive evidence-based and monitoring and evaluation framework.

Benefits of working with MCM include:

• Diverse and inclusive organisation
• Attractive Salary Packaging benefits
• Supportive learning and development environment
• Culture of continuous improvement

Essential

• A bachelor qualification in early childhood development, youth work, psychology, social work or related tertiary qualification.
• Experience in family services, youth work, early childhood services, social work or a related field.
• Extensive experience in providing risk and needs assessment, intervention and risk management.
• Significant experience in working with and providing active and assertive engagement in casework with children, young parents and their families, particularly for those with complex needs and those who are reluctant to accept services.
• Strong communication skills including effective interpersonal, conflict negotiation and resolution skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously

Screening Criteria

• National Police check
• Working with Children check
• Valid Victorian Drivers license
• Right to Work in Australia

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early). Please click "Apply Now" and include your current resume and cover letter.

Please review the position description to understand more about the role and responsibilities. If you have any needs throughout the recruitment process that have not already been catered for, we encourage you to contact [email protected] using the subject line: Team Leader, Family Preservation and Reunification Response enquiry via EthicalJobs to let us know how we can better support you to apply.

About MCM

MCM is an inclusive and equal opportunity employer with a strong commitment to safety. MCM embraces differences because we know that diversity and inclusion help us to attract, recruit, engage and retain talented people.

We are a leading not-for profit-for-purpose organisation that offer a broad range of services in Early Years, Disability, Homelessness, Palliative Care and Education.

Our commitment to Safety

MCM is committed to the safety of its clients and employees, taking a zero-tolerance approach to violence within the workplace and abuse, including child abuse and abuse of people with disability. All employees are required to comply with the Child Safe Standards.

Our commitment to Diversity, Inclusion & Equity of Access

At MCM we embrace our differences because we know that diversity helps us to innovate and make the biggest impact possible. Our DEI Strategy supports and drives an inclusive workplace culture. We embrace the learning opportunities that come with authentic commitment to equity of access for all. We particularly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates to apply.

A position description is attached.