• Team: Service Delivery
• Reports To: Head of Programs / Head of Financial Counselling
• Direct Reports: N/A
• Location: Mile End, Adelaide
• Employment Status: 20 hours per week, 10 am – 2 pm Monday – Friday
• Classification: Level 3 / 4 – Depending upon experience
• Date Reviewed: May 2024
• Award: Social, Community, Home Care & Disability Services Industry 2020
• Delegation and Authority: N/A

The Organisation

Zahra Foundation Australia is dedicated to supporting women and non-binary individuals affected by domestic and family violence through comprehensive programs and financial counselling services. Our mission is to empower participants by facilitating pathways into further education, training, and employment, thus breaking the cycle of abuse. As one of Australia's leading non-government, non-profit organisations, we provide trauma-informed specialist financial counselling and programs tailored to promote economic empowerment and support recovery from domestic violence.

We are embarking on significant growth and are seeking value-driven individuals passionate about social justice and gender equality to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to influence meaningful change in our communities and contribute to ending gendered violence in Australia. The Zahra Foundation is known for its innovative projects, advocacy for change, and community awareness, all developed in co-design with survivor advocates.

Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Abuse

At Zahra Foundation, we believe in:

• Quality Services: Grounded in best practices and research, informed by trauma and violence.
• Partnerships: Collaborating with corporates and stakeholders.
• Community Awareness: Raising awareness and advocating for policy changes.
• Survivor-Centred Approach: Listening to and centering the experiences of survivors.

Our Vision, Purpose & Values

• Vision: Every woman in Australia recovering from domestic and family violence is economically empowered and safe.
• Purpose: Empowering women's economic independence to break the cycle of abuse.
• Values: Instilling hope, providing opportunities, building partnerships, and promoting empowerment.

Objectives of the Position

The Intake Officer is the first point of contact for individuals seeking assistance, playing a crucial role in screening, assessing, and triaging referrals. This role ensures that clients receive timely and effective support, connecting them with appropriate services.

Key Responsibilities

Client Screening and Assessment:

• Conduct initial screenings and assessments to determine eligibility and immediate needs.
• Identify risks and prioritise cases based on urgency and severity.
• Complete safety plans and risk assessments as needed.

Referral Management:

• Manage incoming referrals via phone, email, and walk-ins.
• Provide information and referrals to internal programs or external agencies.
• Maintain accurate records of all client interactions and referrals.

Support and Advocacy:

• Provide brief interventions and crisis support.
• Advocate on behalf of clients to access necessary services and support.
• Ensure services are culturally, gender, and age-appropriate.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain client databases and ensure documentation is up-to-date.
• Manage calendars, booking meeting rooms, and coordinating with team members.
• Ensure all tools and resources are available and operational.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Maintain and foster external relationships supporting Zahra Foundation's services.
• Represent Zahra Foundation positively in external meetings, networks, and conferences.

Reporting and Compliance:

• Provide comprehensive reports on key service issues and progress.
• Ensure accuracy and maintenance of all relevant records.
• Deliver timely and accurate reports.

Workplace Health and Safety:

• Comply with Workplace Health & Safety obligations.
• Actively contribute to minimising health and safety risks.
• Report any workplace incidents, hazards, or concerns promptly.

Administration, Systems, and Technology:

• Perform all administrative activities related to the role.
• Utilise relevant software and technology tools to enhance service delivery.
• Contribute to the ongoing improvement of administrative processes.

Professional Development and Training:

• Engage in evidence-informed training to enhance professional skills.
• Stay updated on emerging research and best practices.
• Participate in supervision sessions and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative environment and encourage a culture of well-being.

Essential Requirements

Qualifications & Experience:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field.
• Minimum two years of experience in case management or a similar role.
• Understanding of the impacts of domestic and family violence.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Successful completion of pre-employment checks (Working with Children Check, Criminal History Check, etc.).
• Commitment to maintaining a child-safe and inclusive workplace.

Other Relevant Information:

• Flexibility with working hours and willingness to work outside of normal business hours.
• Willingness to travel for operational requirements.
• Willingness to undertake further training and development.

Experience:

• At least 2 years of experience in a similar setting.

General Conditions

• Employment is subject to continued funding and a 6-month probationary period.
• Employees must abide by Zahra Foundation's philosophies and principles.
• Appointment subject to state and national police screenings.
• Employees must maintain registration with external peak or regulatory bodies.
• Employees must use Zahra Foundation systems and software.
• Compliance with Workplace Health and Safety legislation is required.
• Employees must engage in support, training, professional development, and mentoring.

Benefits

• Salary packaging options to increase take-home pay.
• Flexible and hybrid work environment.
• Shared Leadership framework.
• Accredited training.
• Access to Employment Hero staff benefits (Discount Store, wellness content).
• Professional development opportunities.
• Access to well-being programs and EAP scheme.
• Supportive and dedicated team environment.

Contact Information:

For any inquiries or further information regarding the position, please contact Kelly-ann Tansley or Shelly at [email protected] using the subject line: Intake Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs.

A position description is attached.

We appreciate your interest in joining The Zahra Foundation team and look forward to reviewing your application.