Position scope– The 12-month Aboriginal Family Led Decision Making Convenor (AFLDM Diversion Program) positions is responsible for the delivery of the trial at Njernda which will include implementation and 12 months formal trial period and wrap up.

The Aboriginal Family Led Decision Making Convenor position is based on traditional family values where the responsibility for bringing up children is shared by parents together with extended family and Community and guided by the wisdom and experience of Elders.

AFLDM will encourage family members, extended family, Elders, significant others in the child’s life and where appropriate the child and/or young person, to meet and make decisions about the safety and wellbeing of children and/or young people who are involved in the Child Protection system.

AFLDM is a process that enhances but does not replace the family’s roles and abilities in developing their own decisions about their children in their own cultural way. The commitment of families and individuals to AFLDM will stem from having an active role in identifying concerns, solutions, and responsibilities in achieving safety for the child.

Organisational Values

• Professional Integrity
  We treat all our people with dignity and respect
• Quality
  We always strive to do our best and improve the way we do things.
• Responsibility
  We commit to the actions we take to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
• Client Focus
  We work toward improving the health and wellbeing of our clients and community.

Key Responsibilities

• Accept referrals and undertake assessments for Aboriginal children and young people to the AFLDM program.
• Convene/Co-Convene AFLDM meetings with Elders/Respected Persons and the DFFH AFLDM Convener.
• Engage and educate families and community on the purpose, process and positive outcomes achieved through Aboriginal Family Led Decision Making.
• Identify and work cooperatively with support services that could be engaged to support AFLDM case plans.
• Encourage reflective practices following AFLDM meetings as a cultural awareness learning tool with the Aboriginal Community and Child Protection staff.
• Work collaboratively with Community Service Organisations and Child Protection to maximise effective, sustainable, and achievable service delivery to Aboriginal children and young people.
• Develop a plan to ensure the child can remain at home safely and the family is supported to support the child’s wellbeing.
• Participate regularly in supervisions, including culturally reflective practice.
• Accurate record keeping, including case notes, completed forms and reports as required according to program guidelines and agency registration obligations.
• Case management and maintenance of client files in line with legislative and policy requirements.
• Maintain accurate statistical data using organisations current data systems as required by Njernda and Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
• Attend regular team meetings and other forums as required.
• Undertake other duties as directed.

 Key Selection Criteria

Applicants must possess:

The successful applicant will possess:

• Demonstrated knowledge, awareness and appreciation of Aboriginal cultures and values and the ability to effectively communicate with Aboriginal people.
• A proven ability to advocate on behalf of children and families.
• Demonstrated ability in facilitating and mediating outcomes with groups.
• A sound knowledge of local issues and needs of the Aboriginal community, and of cultural safety in the context of the Aboriginal community.
• An ability to work effectively with Aboriginal organisations, government departments and community service organisations.
• Well-developed written and oral communication skills and the ability to prepare reports.
• A proven ability to work as part of a team.
• A willingness to participate in training programs and in supervisions.
• The capacity to develop, plan, implement and manage a program.

 Desirable: Experience or formal qualifications in Social Work, Family Support or Family Welfare.

Other relevant information

The successful applicant will be required to undergo satisfactory pre-employment checks, including providing at least two professional referees, completion of a medical declaration, Police Records Check, Working with Children Check, Victorian Driver’s License, and proof of identify and qualifications

Commitment to equal opportunity and occupational health and safety

principles and practices are required

You will need to disclose any pre-existing illness or injury you know about which could be affected by the described work duties. Under section 82 (7) of the Accident Compensation Act, failure to disclose such a pre-existing illness or injury will mean that, if employed, you will not be paid compensation for that condition.

Written applications should include a covering letter.  Please include the names and telephone contacts of at least two referees.

To be eligible for an interview applicant MUST address the Key Selection Criteria and include a recent resume

Address your application marked: “Private & Confidential”

To:                  Corporate Services Manager

Njernda Aboriginal Corporation

P.O. Box 21 Echuca Vic 3564

Email             jobs@njernda.com.au

All applications close:  19^th May 2021             

Please check the closing date to ensure your application is received within the specified time. Applications may be posted, emailed, hand delivered or faxed (provided that a hard copy is posted on the same day).

Applications may be posted, emailed, hand delivered or faxed (provided that a hard copy is posted on the same day).

All applications close: 19th May 2021