Youth Housing Specialist [Identified]

Brisbane Youth Service

Since 1977, Brisbane Youth Service (BYS) has worked to create new futures for vulnerable young people at risk of homelessness aged 12-25 years and their children.

To be eligible for this position you must identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, under equal opportunity section 105 of the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act 1991. Our aim is to employ a workforce reflective of the young people we support.

33% of young people accessing BYS services identify as First Nations and in this role as Youth Housing Specialist you will work with indigenous and non-indigenous young people providing crisis, brief intervention and ongoing planned support, enabling young people to successfully transition into independent living. This position works collaboratively with other teams within BYS, key partners and the broader community to effectively respond to issues associated with housing and homelessness.

Employment Type & Hours

Full-time | 76 hours per fortnight

Conditions

Level 4 - Social, Community, Home Care & Disabilities Services [SCHADS] Award 2010

• Generous salary packaging benefits with flexible work arrangements available
• 5.5 weeks annual leave per annum [pro-rata]
• Great team culture – incl. national Voice Project's 2022 Best Workplace Winner!

In addition to submitting a resume or CV, applicants must address the selection criteria [below] in their cover letter to be considered for shortlisting.

Selection Criteria

1. An understanding of, and commitment to, BYS’ vision and objectives and the demonstrated experience working within a strengths-based and trauma informed practice framework
2. Demonstrated experience working holistically with vulnerable young people, using brief solution focused crisis interventions and ongoing case managed support, building trusting relationships with marginalised young people
3. Demonstrated understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a community housing provider in accordance with the National Regulatory System of Community Housing (NRSCH)
4. Strong organisational and planning skills and the ability to work independently and contribute positively within a team
5. Demonstrated effective communication skills, including strong interpersonal skills and writing skills and the ability to advocate on behalf of others
6. Demonstrated experience developing networks and collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government and community service providers

Education, Qualifications, Requirements [Mandatory]

• A tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Social Sciences or comparable qualification OR substantial demonstrated experience in a related field
• Current Queensland driver’s license
• Working with Children Suitability Card [Blue Card] / willingness to obtain a Blue Card prior to commencement
• National Police Check Clearance
• Evidence of vaccination, immunity, or medical exemption for the following preventable diseases prior to commencement: Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella [Chicken Pox]; Pertussis [Whooping Cough]; and COVID-19
• Three relevant references, including most recent Manager, if relevant

Skills & Experience

• Self-reflective and critical thinking skills
• Ability to support young people with a focus on housing and tenancy sustainment
• Conducting assessments of a young person’s situation and support needs, including suicide risk assessments
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary team and contributing to positive outcomes for young people
• Ability to develop networks and collaborative relationships with external providers

Personal Attributes

• An ability to contribute in a positive wat to the health of an organisation
• Personal drive and integrity
• Consultative and collaborative working attitude
• Flexible, self-directed initiative, collaborative, inclusive, respectful, ethical, accountable
• Commitment to a learning culture and ongoing professional development

Service Delivery

• Complete thorough assessments and provide brief solution focussed interventions with young people to assess their needs and provide support
• Work collaboratively with other programs, both internal and external to support young people to achieve their goals and sustain tenancies
• Support young people with housing, legal, mental health, employment, education and training goals, and social activities
• Provide centre based, outreach and offsite support (including home visits) to young people being supported in BYS housing
• Participate in both quantitative and qualitative data collection to support BYS continual quality improvement
• Participate in staff training and development activities as required
• Participate in staff meetings and organisational planning to contribute to the monitoring and development of BYS programs and services
• Develop networks and collaborative relationships with internal and external providers
• Undertake risk assessments appropriate to the task

People, Culture, Safety

• Model and drive a culture of respect, optimism, accountability, and resilience in line with the organisation’s values
• Model ethical behaviours in line with the BYS Code of Conduct and consistently apply ethical standards to self and others
• Protect and promote the rights of children and young people, including making decisions compatible with the Human Rights Act 2019; and responding to and reporting suspicions and disclosures of abuse or harm
• Ensure a healthy and safe workplace for all by adhering to BYS Work Health and Safety Policy, Procedures and Practices
• Contribute to a culture of respect, optimism, accountability and resilience in line with organisational values
• Attend supervision with Line Manager [at least monthly] to monitor the service and performance
• Participate as a collaborative and supportive team member, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the team and outcomes for young people
• Identify and participate in training and professional development opportunities
• Transport groups and individuals to appointments, meetings, and any other activities as required
• Collect and maintain accurate client data, to contribute to monitoring, evaluation and reporting on program performance
• Participate in both quantitative and qualitative data collection to support BYS continual quality improvement
• Actively participate to deliver the BYS Reconciliation Action Plan [RAP] initiatives and measurable actions that support First Nations equality across our organisation
• Where agreed with the Manager supervise students

Administration

• Implement administration relating to the service, including accurate data, client files, correspondence, and financial records
• Submit timesheets and leave requests accurately and on time on a fortnightly basis, in accordance with relevant legislation and organisational policy and procedure
• Undertake any other tasks as required

Interviews may take place progressively for successfully shortlisted applicants with an immediate start available.

Please visit our website for more information about working with BYS: https://brisyouth.org/

We look forward to hearing from you!