Aboriginal Assertive Outreach

About Ngwala:

Ngwala Willumbong is a leading provider of culturally safe and effective support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to supporting individuals affected by alcohol and other drug misuse, providing them with pathways to recovery through holistic and culturally appropriate rehabilitation programs.

Employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at Ngwala is essential to maintaining culturally aligned services. We STRONGLY encourage Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people to apply for this role and others as they become available.

About the Role:

The Aboriginal Assertive Outreach (AAO) position typically focuses on addressing homelessness, particularly for those who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiencing rough sleeping. The role involves a combination of outreach work, engagement with rough sleepers, and working with local services and housing providers to find sustainable solutions while providing a culturally safe response for individuals facing homelessness

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and address underlying issues which contributed to a community members rough sleeping/homelessness
• Achieve outcomes that lead to securing long term housing
• Actively identifying and engaging with individuals sleeping rough in specific areas, building trust and rapport to encourage them to accept support.
• Working with local authorities, housing providers, mental health services, and alcohol and other drugs support services to ensure a holistic approach to addressing the community member’s needs.
• Supporting community members in accessing emergency accommodation or securing long-term housing and assisting with tenancy sustainment.
• Acting as an advocate for Aboriginal rough sleepers, ensuring their voices are heard in local decision-making processes and service provisions.

Referral

• To respond to referrals within 48 hours by contacting the community member or complete outreach to a community member’s sleep site or known location.
• Undertake an intake to complete an initial assessment and planning tool and provide responsive interventions/outcomes to clients

Data Management

• Maintaining accurate and up to date client records and case notes in the client’s file
• Maintain a high standard of professionalism including client confidentiality
• Conduct client feedback and relay such feedback to management
• Report any concerns to management and in emergency situations be prepared to contact the relevant emergency services

Skills & Experience:

• Experience in working with First Nation people experiencing or at risk of homelessness
• Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and/or culture
• Understanding of Homelessness Issues & Mental Health and Substance use awareness
• Willingness to contribute to the vision, purpose and core values of Ngwala
• Ability to preserve confidentiality in a professional and respectful manner
• Skills in working independently within a multi-disciplined team
• Willingness and ability to work within and contribute to the vision, purpose and core values of the organisation.

Mandatory Requirements:

• Current Victorian driver’s licence

• National Police Certificate (not older than 3 months)

• Victorian Employment Working with Children Check

What We Offer:

• Fixed Term Full Time role (12 months), Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5 PM

• Crisis Accomodation Level 3

• NFP Salary Packaging Benefits up to $15,900

• An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

• A supportive and culturally inclusive work environment.

• Ongoing professional development and training.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey and promoting cultural safety, we would love to hear from you. Please provide the following:

• A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for this role

• A resume which outlines your educational and employment background

*Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit pre-employment checks including a Police Check (no older than 3 months), Victorian Employment Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check.