Engagement and Referral Practitioner - Mackay

Job Description

About Act for Kids

Act for Kids is a prominent provider of prevention, professional therapy and support services for children who have suffered abuse and support for families at risk. With over 25 centres nationally, we have supported thousands of children and their families for more than 30 years. Through prevention, treatment, research, education, and advocacy, we are committed to helping keep kids safe, heal from trauma and lead happy lives.

About the Position

We are looking to welcome an Engagement and Referral Practitioner to provide active engagement and referral for support to vulnerable families where there are child protection concerns.

  • Full time position.
  • Government funded until 31 March 2027.
  • Level 4 under the SCHCADS Award. Salary range is $85,127 and $91,588 + Super (pro-rata).

Key Responsibilities:

  • Maintaining a case load of client families and provide short term intervention.
  • Identifying family needs using specified tools.
  • Successfully engaging families in a timely manner and gaining their consent to refer into appropriate services.
  • Making effective referrals for client families to meet their identified needs.

You can read our full position description here under the relevant vacancy.

Why Join Act for Kids?

The Act for Kids team is a community of shared values. We are a team that is ProfessionalEthicalCaringCourageous, and Collaborative.

  • Inclusive Employer 2023-2024 named by Diversity Council Australia.
  • Employer of Choice awarded in 2019, categories including Health/Wellbeing; Leadership; + Work-Life Balance.
  • Fitness Passport including discounted fitness memberships to a range of facilities for you and your family.
  • Above-award leave provisions including additional parental, study, wellbeing, exam, and pet leave.
  • Professional Development via our annual development fund as well as ongoing structured support.
  • Employee Assistance Program including 24/7 counselling support, and health and wellbeing portals.
  • Salary packaging increasing your take home pay with up to $15,900 per year tax free + an additional $2,650 for meal and entertainment.

About You

  • A tertiary degree in a relevant discipline (allied health, social work, human services).
  • At least 2 years’ experience working within the child protection framework.
  • Ability to identify family and individual client needs using a child-centred approach.
  • Ability to identify child protection concerns.
  • A high level of engagement skills including experience in engaging with non-consenting clients in a respectful and non-threatening manner.

We encourage and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Other Requirements

  • Eligibility for a Working with Children Check or professional exemption.
  • Current driver’s licence.
  • Legally able work in Australia (proof of eligibility will be requested).

About Applying

  • Job applications will be reviewed as soon as submitted. Please click on ‘Apply Now’ to submit an application.
  • Please submit your resume and cover letter addressing the key responsibilities of the role. 
  • We welcome you to share any support or adjustments you need to enable you to participate equitably in our recruitment process. If you have questions or concerns, please speak with the contact person before or during your application. Your information will remain confidential.

For more information or questions about the role, please contact Natasha Baxter on 07 4847 0550 or natasha.baxter@actforkids.com.au.