Aboriginal Tenancies at Risk (ATAR) Worker

About Us

Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Corporation is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation that is dedicated to delivering quality specialist Alcohol and Drug Treatment, Housing and Homeless and other services to meet the needs of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) People and their families. Our services operate across Victoria.

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.

The Job

The role of the Aboriginal Tenancies at Risk Worker is to maintain Aboriginal tenancies by supporting tenants to address issues placing their housing at risk, with focus on families/women with dependent children. They will also assist with rental arrears, Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) matters, transfers, maintenance debts and other life issues that may jeopardise tenancies.

The program provides assessment, referral and case management to address needs and risk factors that make tenancies within public and social housing vulnerable.

The role is responsible for:

• Identify and address underlying issues which contribute to the risk of tenancy breakdown
• Achieve outcomes that lead to successful, sustainable public and social housing tenancies
• Reduce preventable exits from public housing, prevent homelessness
• To support clients who are at risk or experiencing homelessness, including but not limited to liaising with the community, assessing and documenting client needs, advocate on behalf of clients and transport clients to various appointments
• Assist clients to maintain Public Housing Tenancies.
• Support clients to integrate into social and community networks
• Promptly respond to general enquiries and referrals of clients
• To respond to referral within 48 hours by contacting the client
• Undertake initial assessments and refer homeless clients to appropriate agencies to meet emergency accommodation and support needs
• 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
• Data input to SHIP (database program) and procedures (monthly)

What we offer:

• Full Time Position
• SCHADS Crisis Accommodation Level 2
• NFP Salary Packaging Benefits up to $15,900
• Grow your career at a thriving organisation invested in your development
• Work for a dynamic, family-friendly and inclusive NFP organisation

Your 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
• 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.
• Able to develop positive relationships with clients and work within a high-paced environment
• Computer literacy skills including Microsoft Office suite
• High level of organisation and time management skills, attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
• Desirable to have completed MARAM and Client Incident Management Systems (CIMS) Training, selected candidate will be required to complete these trainings.

Mandatory Requirements:

• Certificate IV in Social Housing or relevant; and/or experience in working with Aboriginal people experiencing or at risk of homelessness
• Victorian Driver’s License
• National Police Certificate (no older than 6 months).
• Victorian Employment Working with Children Check
• Required qualifications will be verified

Desirable

• Relevant studies or training within the Community Services and/or homelessness sector

• Client Incident Management Systems (CIMS) Training (can be completed post-employment)

• MARAM Training (can be completed post-employment)

• First Aid

We welcome applications from highly motivated individuals with experience in cultural education, community engagement, and Aboriginal services.

If this sounds like 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 complete pre-employment checks including a Police Check, Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check.