• Located in Newman
• Full Time fixed-term contract to June 2021

Generous salary sacrificing package and other benefits available plus 5 weeks annual leave

The Pilbara Community Legal Service Inc. (PCLS) is a non-profit, government-funded community organisation that provides a range of free services which include legal advice, redress, financial counselling, tenancy advocacy and support, domestic violence advocacy and support and migrant settlement services. PCLS is an inspiring, professional and challenging environment to work in, and is a well-established and highly valued part of the Pilbara social infrastructure with offices in Karratha, Roebourne, South Hedland and Newman.

This position is responsible to assisting clients with financial difficulty. The Financial Counsellor will provide information, support and advocacy to help clients deal with their immediate financial situation and minimise the risk of future financial problems. Financial counsellors aim to empower their clients so that they make their own informed choices. Their services are free, independent, confidential and nonjudgmental. The service includes providing information, budgeting, casework, advocacy, support and appropriate referrals as well as community education to clients seeking assistance in relation to their rights and responsibilities in financial counselling and other relevant areas of need. PCLS seeks to fill this position with a suitably skilled person.

To be considered for this position you must possess the following ten (10) essential requirements:

1. Diploma in Community Services (Financial Counselling) or progress towards completing the Diploma in Community Services (Financial Counselling) or the opportunity for the right applicant to be provided with a subsidy to obtain a Diploma in Community Services (Financial Counselling).
2. Case management skills to assess, inform, advise, support and refer clients.
3. Demonstrated skills in working with, and knowledge of, Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel and Outlook and other data base entry systems.
4. Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills with the ability to interact sensitively and effectively with a broad range of stakeholders including Aboriginal and CALD clients, community groups, Government and Non-Government agencies.
5. Ability to work under pressure and to apply contemporary problem-solving techniques through effective case management.
6. Sound understanding of the National Credit Code, the Bankruptcy Act and Debt Recovery Legislation
7. Knowledge of Aboriginal culture and an understanding of issues facing Aboriginal people, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds
8. A current ‘C’ Class Driver’s License
9. Working with Children Check or be eligible to obtain one
10. National Police Clearance Check or be eligible to obtain one