Initial Assessment and Planning (IAP) Worker – Aboriginal Entry Point

About Us

Ngwala Willumbong (Pitjantjatjara for “Dry Place”) Aboriginal Corporation is an Aboriginal community-controlled organisation (ACCO) that is devoted to providing high quality, specialised alcohol and drug rehabilitation and community support services to meet the needs of Aboriginal people and their families. Our services operate across Victoria.

At Ngwala, we are committed to continuously improving the quality of our services by maintaining the knowledge of our staff and listening to the voice of our community. We also strive to develop meaningful partnerships with other organisations to foster best practices in service delivery.

The Job

The Initial Assessment and Planning (IAP) Worker will provide immediate and/or timely assessments and crisis intervention to Aboriginal People experiencing homelessness. Using culturally safe practises, the IAP worker will assess client needs (and family where appropriate) and arrange, coordinate and advocate for the delivery and access to a range of programs and services that support the client to reduce the risk of homelessness and/or achieve stable housing.

Tasks will include:

• Respond to clients who drop in for support
• Provide outreach services
• To respond to referrals within 48 hours by contacting the client
• Undertake initial assessments and provide responsive interventions/outcomes to clients

Remuneration and Benefits

• 6 Month contract (subject to funding)
• SCHADS Crisis Accommodation Level 2
• NFP Salary Packaging Benefits up to $15,900
• Work for a dynamic, family-friendly and inclusive NFP organisation

Your Skills & Experience

• Experience in working with Aboriginal people experiencing or at risk of homelessness
• Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture and commitment to the Aboriginal community
• Demonstrated understanding of the unique health challenges and social issues faced by the Aboriginal community, including the impacts of alcohol and drug use and homelessness.
• Demonstrated skills in case management
• Ability to provide culturally safe and respectful care and services to the Aboriginal community.
• Networking skills to build and maintain relationships with various stakeholders and Aboriginal organisations.
• Skills to conduct assertive outreach within the community, demonstrating sensitivity and respect for cultural norms and practices.
• Able to develop positive relationships with clients.
• Ability to work in high-pressure environments while managing a complex caseload.
• Demonstrate commitment to the care and support of homeless and disadvantaged men, women, youth and families
• Skills in working independently, generally within defined guidelines, and as a team member
• Proficiency in computer skills, including the Microsoft Office suite and client management systems
• First Aid (desirable)

Mandatory Certifications

• Satisfactory National Police Check (International if applicable) within the last 6 months
• Victorian Employment Working with Children’s Check
• Driver’s License

If this sounds like you, please provide the following:

• A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for this role
• A resume which outlines your educational and employment background

Employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at Ngwala is integral to keeping our services culturally aligned so we strongly encourage Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander People to apply for this role and others as they become available

*Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit pre-employment checks including a Police Check, Victorian Employment Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check.