Social Worker

The Office of Public Prosecutions (OPP) is an independent statutory authority responsible for preparing and conducting criminal prosecutions in Victoria on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Matters prosecuted by the DPP and the OPP involve serious crimes or matters that are of significance to the fair and effective operation of the Victorian criminal justice system.The OPP consists of the Solicitor for Public Prosecutions and a staff of approximately 475 providing legal and corporate support to the DPP, the Chief Crown Prosecutor and Crown Prosecutors in the exercise of their independent roles in the criminal justice system.

Social Worker - Victims and Witness Assistance Service (VWAS)

2x Ongoing Positions & 2x Fixed Term (Up to 12 Months) Positions Available

The OPP has multiple exciting opportunities for motivated individuals to join our Victims and Witness Assistance Services (VWAS) team as a Social Worker!

The OPP is committed to ensuring the VWAS team continues to provide a very high standard of support and service to the Victorian community, as an integral part of the prosecution service.  All Social Workers provide professional information and support at the highest standard in relation to victims of crime and their role in the indictable prosecution process and criminal justice system.

As a leader in the criminal justice system the OPP continuously delivers effective outcomes by valuing and supporting its people and delivering high quality prosecutions independently, fairly and efficiently. 

The OPP's culture is shaped by its core values which include:

• Treating everyone with respect
• Working collaboratively
• Embracing innovation
• Demonstrating professional excellence
• Acting with integrity

The OPP prioritises and promotes employee health and well-being and aligns with the VPS Mental Health Charter and Wellbeing Charter. 

As a VPS employee you will also have access to range of leave provisions, including paid parental leave, annual leave, long service leave and study leave and as a flexible workplace, arrangements including part-time and compressed working weeks will be considered.

The position is Melbourne based with travel to country Victoria required as part of the role. Such travel can involve multi-night stays and a vehicle and overnight accommodation are provided as required.

Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options are available.

About the Role:

• Social Workers at the OPP provide assistance to victims, witnesses and their families within the prosecution service, as an integral part of the Legal Practice services. They also support solicitors and prosecutors to ensure that victims and witnesses are informed throughout the prosecution process.
• The position works as part of a multi-disciplinary team with solicitors and prosecutors to help ensure the rights of victims are met in accordance with the OPP Victims Charter.

As our ideal candidate you will have:

• Successful candidates will work in a dynamic environment and should possess the ability to work in an agile manner, contributing to and embracing innovative solutions and ways of working.
• Extensive case management experience and proven ability to work in a demanding team environment, managing complex situations, highly sensitive issues and positively contribute to innovative ways of working are required traits of the Social Worker role.
• A qualification in social work, psychology or a related discipline is essential, together with a valid Australian Drivers Licence.

To apply, you will need to submit a resume, cover letter and complete the online questionnaire which can be found on the last page of the application process. This questionnaire will ask you to address some of the Key Selection Criteria which you must complete.

Separate responses to the KSC outlined in the position description are not required.

In accordance with the VPS recruitment process all candidates are subject to complete a pre-employment misconduct screening declaration. Further information is available on the VPSC website: https://vpsc.vic.gov.au/resources/pre-employment-screening-misconduct-victorian-public-service/

Applications close 11:59pm Friday 23 February 2024.

The OPP is committed to building a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture.  People from all cultural backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply, particularly applicants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, or those who may experience disability related barriers in securing employment. If you require assistance with the recruitment process, or have accessibility requirements please contact ************@opp.vic.gov.au

Persons considering applying for these positions should note that the recruitment process may be used to fill a commensurate position/s within 3 months of the completion of the recruitment without any further advertisement or interview. Please note this recruitment process, including interviews, will be conducted remotely.