Lead transformative Research with Real-World Impact: As a Senior Research Officer at Berry Street, you'll not only conduct groundbreaking research but also directly influence the future of family services in Victoria. You'll be at the forefront of creating safer, stronger families, all while advancing your career in a supportive, values-driven environment. Join us and be a part of meaningful change.

Berry Street Victoria and La Trobe University are collaborating on a research project aimed at making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. Funded by La Trobe University, this project will be jointly managed by Berry Street and La Trobe University. The research focuses on what contributes to positive change for families with cumulative or escalating needs.

The research will concentrate on Berry Street’s Integrated Family Services, funded by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH), in two of its regions – North (metropolitan) and South East Victoria (Inner Gippsland).

• Hybrid with occasionally working in our Preston and Morwell offices.
• Part time 0.8FTE, fixed term role Jan 2025 to Dec 2026.
• $122k + super and salary packaging (pro rata).

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the development and implementation of the joint research project, under the direction of the Steering Group.
• Collaborate with internal and external researchers regarding the joint research project.
• Conduct activities such as literature reviews, data collection, data entry, data analysis, report writing, and dissemination of research findings in relation to the joint research project.
• Contribute to specific submissions and projects related to the joint research project and the broader field.
• Effectively manage the work of the Research Assistant.

What We’re Looking For:

• PhD preferred qualification in Social Work or Welfare or related disciplines such as Psychology.
• Minimum Masters in Research.
• A minimum of 12 months prior Research experience particularly in child and family services or related fields.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and lead a small team.
• A passion for making a real difference in the community.

Berry Street Benefits:

• A culture that values and supports professional development. 
• $15,900 pa Salary Packaging + Additional Salary Packaging for meals/accommodation
• 10 weeks paid parental leave + other generous leave conditions!
• Access to the Employee Assistance Program, with access for staff's immediate family
• Leave loading 17.5% 

Ready to Make a Difference? Apply now and take and advance your career.

How to Apply? 

Applications including resume and cover letter addressing the key selection criteria to be submitted by the Apply Now link.

Queries? Contact Lynda McRae Senior Advisor, Services on 03 9429 9266.

A position description is attached.

Please Note; the successful applicant will be subject to comprehensive reference and background checking prior to employment, including a Working with Children Check and National Police Check .

Berry Street is committed to being a child safe, child friendly and child empowering organisation. In everything we do we seek to protect children. We are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children; children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds; children with a disability; children who identify as LGBTIQA+. We aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their cultural background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, spirituality or religion.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds and people with a disability are encouraged to apply.