Family Preservation Caseworker - Illawarra

Who We Are

CareSouth is a spirited, truly local community based organisation with a dynamic and bold vision to make a difference 'every day'. Working across locations in NSW and ACT, we seek to inspire each other and the communities in which we operate. Our purpose is to influence and support the safety, development and empowerment of children, young people, adults and communities. 

About the Role

CareSouth is currently looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Caseworker to join our Illawarra team on a full-time, 1 year fixed term contract.

Raising a child can be tough, help and support can make a real difference. At CareSouth we know that children thrive when they are with family and community. Through the Family Preservation Program, we work with families to support them through challenges like domestic violence, mental health issues, significant learning or intellectual disabilities, drug and alcohol misuse, complex health needs, school attendance concerns and other challenges that may make family life difficult.  We work alongside families to support their opportunities to thrive. 

The program is a voluntary program for families with children aged 0 to 18. The role of the Caseworker is to provide case management and support through regular home visits and access to services and programs for children and their families, the majority of whom are referred by the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) in relation to a Risk of Significant Harm (ROSH) report.

The successful applicant will have:

• Tertiary qualifications in relevant discipline (Social Work, Social Sciences, Social Welfare) or working towards completion.
• Demonstrated experience in a similar role. 
• Ability to comprehensively assess and case manage the individual needs of children and young people and their families.
• Experience in preparing assessment reports and case plans in conjunction with children and young people.
• Ability to work independently when required as well as working positively within a team.
• Ability to undertake crisis intervention and support of children and young people in care, parents and other services.
• Proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with referral agencies and community carers.
• Understanding and commitment to EEO, WHS, Cultural issues and the NSW Child Protection system and legislation as well as mandatory reporting requirements.
• Knowledge of the context and impact of the issues arising from children and young people being in Out of Home Care.
• Demonstrated computer skills and the use of various software.
• Drivers licence with a satisfactory driving history record.

Do you want to be a part of something great?

At CareSouth, we recognise that the work you do every day is what makes our organisation great. We want to reward that and be an organisation that you are proud to be a part of. We are here to help you bring your best self to work and take your best self home!

To recognise the work you do we offer

• 24/7 After Hours Call centre to allow you to leave work at work
• Concessional leave, to be taken over the Christmas period
• Salary packaging entitlements up to $15,900
• Free, confidential and independent Employee Assistance Program
• Tailored professional development pathways
• 24/7 access to our online eLearning system
• Access to Fitness Passport
• A compassionate, supportive and inclusive culture that encourages you to be bold, big-hearted and determined.

Applications Close: 29 April 2025.

To Apply: Please review the Position Description found at www.caresouth.org.au/careers for a comprehensive overview of the role. Your application must include a copy of your updated resume and a cover letter (Max. 2 pages) addressing the Essential Criteria in the position description

Please note that only applicants who are invited to an interview will be contacted. Be sure to keep an eye on your emails as applicants who are invited to an interview will be contacted via email to schedule an appointment time.

CareSouth warmly welcomes EVERYONE, irrespective of their ethnicity, faith, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to eliminating all forms of discrimination.

NOTE: Positions are subject to a Working with Children/Vulnerable People clearance and satisfactory National Police Check

Enquiries to: Emma Robertson, Family Preservation Program Manager on 1300 554 260