Practice Leader Child Protection Navigator

Job Description

Practice Leader Child Protection Navigator Job posted: 30/01/2025 Organisation: Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Occupation: Community Services Reference: VG/DHH/CHA/636828 Closes: 13/02/2025 Classification: CPP 5.2 Salary Range: $121,250 - $132,764 The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) works hard to create equal opportunities for all Victorians to live a safe, respected and valued life. Our areas of focus are child protection, housing, disability, the prevention of family violence, multicultural affairs, LGBTIQA+ equality, veterans, women and youth. The work we do benefits thousands of Victorians, particularly those who are disadvantaged and vulnerable. We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated. All jobs can be worked flexibly, and we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. THE ROLE The Child Protection Navigator is a Practice Leader Position dedicated to the Family Preservation and Reunification Response. The Child Protection Navigator supports activation of the Response at the right time, with the right people and in the right place to promote and protect the rights and best interests of children and young people. This role will model and enhance trauma-informed, culturally safe and responsive practice that is child and family-centred, relational, evidence-informed, and integrated to improve outcomes of child safety, wellbeing, and development. The Child Protection Navigator provides a unique opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families and has a strong focus on developing a connected and coordinated practice culture and mindset shift of Response practitioners within child and family services and Child Protection practitioners working together. The role may also undertake case practice quality audits and provide regular practice forums and reflective practice sessions. A core requirement of this role includes a case carrying component, commensurate with other responsibilities. The transportation of children is a requirement of this role; therefore, a valid driver's licence and willingness to travel, including in country regions, is essential. There may be the requirement to work overnight and travel in the evenings and early mornings. On occasions, additional hours may be required to ensure the wellbeing of children. You will possess an understanding of Aboriginal culture and demonstrate an understanding of the legislative, policy and practice requirements relating to Aboriginal children, families, and communities, including the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle and the programs and initiatives that support its implementation in child protection practice. ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDE Risk assessment and analysis: provides support, guidance and advice to the broader sector and community partners/stakeholders. Further develops and coaches others in their understanding of risk assessment and analysis. Case planning review and case management: directly supports and inputs into cases where there is unacceptable risk to the child. Practice leadership: expertly translates best practice principles and legislative requirements to apply in practice. Collective leadership: helps create a collective leadership culture where leaders are developed, valued and supported at all levels; fosters an environment where people feel their contribution counts. Developing others: facilitates staff coaching, mentoring and practice development and provides leadership; encourages a learning environment for team members, promoting the need for gaining new knowledge, insights and skills. System leadership: uses formal and informal relationships to build buy-in and support from key internal and external clients or stakeholders. HOW TO APPLY All VPS employees (and ex-VPS employees with extended access to the Jobs and Skills Exchange website) MUST apply via the Jobs and Skills Exchange portal. Applicants are encouraged to apply online. Attachments can be uploaded in .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt or .rtf formats. Applicants are required to submit a CV and Cover Letter (max 2 pages) outlining their suitability to the role in line with the Key Selection Criteria. Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process. Preferred candidates will be required to complete pre-employment screening, including a national police check and misconduct screening. Please apply to submit your interest in this position. To apply for this role, you will be redirected to the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing job application system. #J-18808-Ljbffr