• Position: Fixed Term, Part Time (4 Days a week)
• Location: Dandenong
• Salary: $85,120 - $91,586 Pro Rata, plus Super & Benefits

The Organisation

The Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA) is an Aboriginal Community-Controlled organisation that supports and advocates for the Aboriginal Community and is the largest organisation of its kind in Australia. The VACCA team is committed to the organisation’s visions and values, passionately providing support, service and advocacy for our children and other vulnerable members of the community.

Our strength lies with our people.

About the role

The Better Futures Community Connector acts as a bridge between young individuals transitioning from care to the community, facilitating access to resources and opportunities. They organise outings and educational pathways, fostering connections that help these youths pursue their aspirations in education and employment. While they don't engage in direct casework, they're a vital part of the support network for these individuals. Connectors assist those who've been in out-of-home care and are aiming for independent living post-care.

About You

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Welfare Work or Social Sciences (or willing to obtain) or less formal qualifications with significant industry experience.
• Demonstrated commitment and understanding for the values that underpin VACCA’ vision and purpose  
• Demonstrated awareness and appreciation of Aboriginal societies and cultures, and commitment to continually build knowledge of such, along with a high level of awareness of the key issues which impact upon Aboriginal communities
• Proven ability to create safe environments for children, shielding them from abuse and neglect.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for professional communication, negotiation, and effective problem-solving.
• Exceptional writing abilities for creating professional case notes, assessments, and reports.
• Proficient in computer literacy and digital skills.
• Proactive approach in fostering a positive, collaborative work environment, contributing to ongoing improvements.
• Requirements: Current COVID-19 vaccination (including booster dose, as applicable), a Working with Children’s Check for a paid employee (or willingness to obtain) and a Victorian Driver Licence.

What we can offer you

• A supportive environment that includes comprehensive induction
• The support of regular internal supervision
• Professional development and training opportunities 
• Attractive salary packaging to increase your take-home pay
• 17.5%  loading on annual leave
• Access to agency vehicles for all work-related travel 
• Access to Employee support and wellbeing programs 
• Paid parental leave after 12 months of ongoing employment
• Opportunity to work and build connection with the Aboriginal Community and culture
• Fitness Passport - allowing you (and your family) access to any of the facilities available on this program 

Please note: This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. This employment opportunity is only available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Applications should include a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria and current resume.

We encourage applicants to view the Position Description prior to applying.

Please click the link to download the position description for this role. Better Futures - Community Connector Cultural Mentor - Southern-L4

We are committed to Aboriginal self-determination and supporting strong, safe, thriving Aboriginal communities and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity, honouring all cultural backgrounds, abilities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities and spiritual beliefs.

VACCA is a child-safe organisation and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and young people with zero tolerance for child abuse. All successful applicants will be required to undertake a National Police Record Check and Working with Children Check prior to commencement of employment and periodically following commencement.

VACCA is an equal opportunity employer and has a smoke-free workplace policy.