Seeking a Tenancy Advocate - Daydawn Advocacy Centre

ABOUT THE AGENCY

Daydawn Advocacy Centre is an outreach agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth which seeks to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and advocate on their behalf. Services include provision of legal and social advocacy services for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

ABOUT THE ROLE - A SNAPSHOT

• Permanent, Part-time (0.6 FTE – 22.8 hours per week)
• Workdays negotiable across 3 or 4 days Monday to Thursday
• Must be available between the hours of 9am – 2pm to assist clients
• Make a difference directly to those in need
• Join a small team of 5 people based in Aberdeen Street, Perth
• 3.5 days additional paid leave over Christmas

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO

The Tenancy Advocate assists the Director in ensuring that the office is a safe, welcoming and trusting environment for clients at all times. The Tenancy Advocate supports the Director and the Tenancy Lawyer in their roles, including advocating for clients facing eviction. They assist the Director and Tenancy Lawyer to coordinate the team of advocates and volunteers. This role works closely with and is guided by the Tenancy Lawyer in the day-to-day tasks to provide tenancy services to clients.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Tenancy Services

• Work collaboratively with the other Tenancy Advocate to assist the Tenancy Lawyer with day-to-day tasks including provision of tenancy services
• Provide advice, advocacy and representation in relation to tenancy matters
• Assist in preparing both internal and external reports
• Maintain client records and data bases as required
• Assist volunteers, as and when required
• Participate in team meetings, planning and review activities
• Implement policies and procedures and act in accordance with agency values
• Carry out other duties, consistent with the role as required by the Director and Tenancy Lawyer

Administration Duties

• Be responsible for the day-to-day general office duties, including the opening and shutdown routines
• Answer incoming telephone calls, direct calls and take messages for staff when required
• Receive and welcome clients
• Conduct a preliminary assessment of the client’s needs
• Provide administration support including word processing, photocopying, record keeping and filing as required
• Maintain agency statistics and client files as requested by the Director and/or Tenancy Lawyer
• Ensure the premises are kept clean and orderly

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Qualifications

Tertiary qualification in social sciences, advocacy, or social work that would be relevant to the Mandate and objectives of the agency

Skills & Experience

Essential:

• A willingness and capacity to support the Catholic ethos
• Working knowledge of the Catholic Church
• Understanding of the type of issues faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
• Recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples values within a spiritual context
• Intermediate level computer skills, including in the Microsoft Office Suite (particularly Word and Outlook)
• Strong networking and negotiation skills
• Ability to facilitate legal support for clients
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality
• Well-developed organisation skills
• Advanced interpersonal/customer service skills
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills
• Western Australian Driver's Licence

Desirable:

• Experience working in a Catholic organisation
• Ability to negotiate outcomes in the best interests of clients
• Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
• Understanding of the histories and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
• A working knowledge of the policies and procedures used by the Department of Communities, Housing and Child Protection
• A broad knowledge of support services available to vulnerable clients in Western Australia

Personal qualities:

• Strong work ethic
• Displays a service mindset and resilience
• Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Respects boundaries and practises self-care
• Ability to handle challenging situations in an appropriate manner and according to organisational guidelines
• Has a positive and flexible approach and the ability to work as part of a team

If successful in securing the position, the applicant must provide a valid National Police Clearance, WA Driver's Licence, and proof of working rights in Australia.

BENEFITS

• Be part of a small, supportive team dedicated to making a difference
• 3.5 days additional paid leave over Christmas

Next steps

Submit your current resume and a cover letter on EthicalJobs.com.au by no later than the advertised closing date. We reserve the right to begin shortlisting and interviews prior to the closing date.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Perth is committed to the Safeguarding of children and adults at risk.