Domestic & Family Violence Counsellor

Domestic and Family Violence Counsellor

Cooktown District Community Centre (CDCC) is a not-for-profit organisation providing community services and supports to Cooktown, Hope Vale, Wujal Wujal and Laura including Financial Support, Social Support, Community Development, Parenting & Family Support, Family Support, Youth Engagement, Youth Alcohol and other drugs (AOD), Domestic & Family Violence Support, 60’s and Better Healthy Aging and Intensive Playgroup. 

CDCC provides a flexible, family-oriented, friendly, and supportive work environment that is interested in the ongoing professional development and engagement of all its employees. As an accredited organisation, CDCC is able to secure vital funding for community service programs and has a positive vision for future funding and expanding services. 

As a registered Charity, generous salary packaging applies. You can salary package up to $15,900 per year for general living expenses and packaging benefits relating to vehicles and entertainment expenses. This position is classified at level 4 or level 5 under the Social, Community, Home Care,  and Disability Services Industry Award 2010, equal remuneration rates apply. Salary will be negotiated on qualifications and depth of experience with 11% superannuation as per the government superannuation guarantee. 

Position Details

Counselling is a significant early intervention and prevention strategy aimed at stopping the cycle of violence. CDCC has both a men's and women's counselling team focused on accountability for people who use violence and support and safety planning for people experiencing violence. As part of a close-knit team, the Domestic & Family Violence Counsellor will provide specialised case management and counselling services to victims of domestic and Family Violence.

Our counselling service for Domestic and Family Violence is based in Cooktown, with outreach services to Hope Vale, Wujal Wujal and Laura. We are excited to extend the opportunity to either suitably qualified professionals, or candidates with experience in social services who are willing to undertake professional development.

Key Duties include but not limited to:

• Provide Counselling and Case Management.
• Provide support, needs assessment, advocacy, information, and referral to victims of Domestic and Family Violence
• With support from the team, develop and maintain community education strategies for Domestic and Family Violence
• Develop and maintain key stakeholder and inter-agency relationships
• Prepare and maintain accurate client records
• Prepare and maintain all statutory and organisational reporting
• Work collaboratively as part of a team

You will be provided with a copy of the complete position description on receipt of your application. 

Selection Criteria

1. Candidates with diploma or university qualifications in counselling, psychology, social work, community welfare, or a related social qualification will be highly regarded.
2. Demonstrated high level of written and spoken communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work autonomously and cooperatively within a team environment to attain organisational and client goals. Ability to liaise with government and non-government agencies.
3. Demonstrated skills in providing counselling, case management, advocacy and crisis intervention to victims of domestic and Family Violence and thorough ability to work within Australian DV Practice Standards.
4. Demonstrated sound knowledge of cultural differences and in particular an awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lifestyle, customs and issues and a demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and sensitively to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
5. Knowledge and understanding of the effects and cause of domestic and Family Violence, including knowledge of cultural differences and needs.
6. Knowledge and application of relevant legislation and regulations, specifically Domestic and Family Violence Act and a basic understanding of the Family Law Act.
7. Demonstrated computer literacy skills, including Microsoft Office applications.

Additional factors:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply; however, this position is not identified.
• Professional development may be provided to people who are willing to learn. 
• Ability to work independently with minimal direction and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• High-level organisational skills, including the ability to be flexible, set priorities, manage time efficiently, sound problem-solving skills and the ability to use word processing, email and the Internet.
• Current or eligible to apply for a “Working with Children & Young People” Blue Card
• A current Queensland driver’s license is required – 4X4 driving experience is desirable.

Benefits

• A competitive salary is offered, including generous salary packaging options. In addition, individual and peer supervision and professional development opportunities will be offered to the successful applicant.
• Flexible working arrangements are offered to those supporting family or with carer's responsibilities.  
• CDCC is a family-friendly organisation. 
• Organisational culture is friendly, supportive and professional. 
• CDCC vehicles are provided for work-related travel. 

Applicants are requested to provide a cover letter addressing the selection criteria against their relevant work experience and a current resume with the names of two professional referees / current or previous supervisors. 

Please call (07) 4082 1*** if you would like to speak with someone before submitting your application.