Lifeline South Coast (NSW) is part of the national Lifeline network providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. Somewhere in Australia there is a new call to Lifeline every minute. The Lifeline South Coast call catchment area runs the coastal strip from Helensburgh in the north, to the Victorian border in the south. In addition to the crisis service, the organisation also provides a financial counselling service, and corporate and community suicide prevention training. Lifeline South Coast is an activity of Wollongong Mission, Wesley Uniting Church on the Mall.

We are currently seeking a permanent full time (76 hours per fortnight) Community Training and Engagement Manager who demonstrates initiative and has considerable knowledge and experience in community engagement. The Community Training and Engagement Manager will work as part of a multidisciplinary team in Lifeline’s Wollongong office.

Job Description:

The key aim of the position is to

• Develop an understanding of training and information needs within our region and assist in identifying, matching or creating Lifeline South Coast services to address this needs
• Oversee the implementation of existing service and funding related to corporate and community training (Gatekeeper) programs, which comprise a suite of mental health and suicide awareness and prevention programs delivered to the general community and key frontline employees
• Maintain current stakeholder relationships and build new relationships to develop effective partnerships.

Selection Criteria:

• Formal qualifications relevant to the role e.g. Community Development, Adult Education and Training, Allied Health; and/or significant relevant experience
• Cert IV TAE or willingness to complete in first year of employment
• Experience in community engagement and development roles
• Good understanding and experience of Suicide Awareness and Prevention and commitment to upholding the values and community reputation of LLSC.
• Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills
• Proven strong interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated excellent organisational skills and project management skills
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a team
• Demonstrated ability to develop strong alliances both internally and with other relevant stakeholders such as project partners, sponsors, supporters, and the media
• Demonstrated high level of integrity and sound ethical practice
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and coach a small team of staff
• Confidence to use a Microsoft Windows suite of applications
• Current Drivers Licence and vehicle