• Partnership with Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP)
• Full time, fixed term contract: 2 years
• Location: Mildura, Victoria

About the Australian Childhood Foundation

The Australian Childhood Foundation is a leading non-profit dedicated to protecting children and healing those affected by abuse, neglect, or family violence. Our evidence-based approach integrates neurobiology, attachment theories, and child development into our therapeutic services across multiple Australian regions. We collaborate extensively with families, communities, and professionals, providing training and advocating for systemic change to ensure a safe, nurturing environment for all children. Our commitment extends beyond immediate care to fostering long-term societal improvements in child welfare.

About the Role

We are excited to announce a unique opportunity for a dedicated Therapeutic Specialist to join our team in Mildura. This new role is pivotal within our Therapeutic Residential Care program, aimed at providing specialised care and recovery for children and young people who have experienced abuse-related trauma.

In this dynamic position, you will lead clinical efforts in our partnership with MASP in their residential care setting, conducting therapeutic assessments and implementing tailored trauma informed strategies. Your role will focus on enhancing the therapeutic practices through the development and delivery of specialised programs and comprehensive training for the therapeutic residential care team. The position will provide direct therapeutic work with children and young people where appropriate.

Additionally, you will champion the rights and well-being of children and young people, working closely with a network of stakeholders including families, educational bodies, broader support services and child protection services to foster a supportive and healing environment. This position embodies not just care delivery but a commitment to transformative change in the lives of vulnerable children.

About You

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled professional with:

• A Bachelor degree or higher in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.
• A deep understanding of the challenges within service systems, especially those impacting children in the out of home care system..
• Experience in providing clinical assessment and direct therapeutic services to children and young people and their networks.
• A commitment to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, as well as children from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Preferred Skills

• Postgraduate qualifications or specific training in child and adolescent clinical practice.
• Ability to provide effective therapeutic leadership and engage diverse professional teams.
• Experience in working within multi-disciplinary and intersectional care teams.
• Strong communication and capacity-building skills to foster a learning culture.

What We Offer

• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• A chance to make a significant impact on the lives of children and young people.
• Salary packaging benefits available for employees of not-for-profit organisations.
• A work vehicle provided for both personal and professional use.
• A competitive salary and benefits package, reflective of your experience and qualifications.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and have the skills to lead and innovate within a therapeutic setting, we encourage you to apply.

To Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your experience and suitability for the role, or for a copy of a position description, please email Bree Roberts at [email protected] using the subject line: Therapeutic Specialist - Residential Care - Mildura enquiry via EthicalJobs.

The Australian Childhood Foundation (ACF) is committed to safeguarding children and young people. We require all applicants to undergo an extensive screening process prior to appointment.

ACF is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBT+ community. All are strongly encouraged to apply.