Deliver culturally responsive child protection practice that supports Aboriginal children and families across regional communities.

• Multiple full-time temporary vacancies available via a pool process
• Make a difference through Aboriginal-led family support and connection  
• Child Protection Allowance in addition to annual salary.

Role Status: Multiple full-time temporary vacancies available via a pool process
Remuneration: AHP2 ($94,997 - $110,052) / AHP1 ($73,710 - $89,981) + 12% super

This position is only open to applicants of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent pursuant to Section 56 (2) of the Equal Opportunity Act, 1984

Our Far North Far West (FNFW) team has multiple opportunities for Senior Aboriginal Family Practitioners (AHP2) and Aboriginal Family Practitioners (AHP1). The FNFW team services the Ceduna, Port Augusta, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie and Whyalla regions, delivering child protection services across diverse regional, rural and remote communities. Applicants will be asked to nominate their location preferences as part of the selection process.

Working alongside Aboriginal children, families and communities, you'll play an important role in strengthening family connections, supporting child safety and delivering culturally responsive child protection practice.

Whether you're an emerging practitioner or an experienced professional, you'll contribute to services that are grounded in culture and focused on positive outcomes for families. Senior opportunities also provide the chance to offer practice leadership, mentoring and support to colleagues.

Desirable Qualification:

• A degree level qualification in Social Work which gives eligibility for full membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers.

Persons of Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, who have the appropriate background and skills but do not have the essential qualification, may apply for and be engaged/assigned to the role of Social Worker and will be entitled to apply for any Allied Health Professional roles requiring a qualification in Social Work within the Department for Child Protection (DCP).

As a Senior Aboriginal Family Practitioner, you will:

• Lead culturally responsive service delivery for Aboriginal children, families and communities
• Provide specialist guidance and consultation to support effective child protection responses
• Build strong partnerships with Aboriginal communities and key stakeholders to support coordinated responses
• Advocate for family-centred approaches and culturally informed decision-making
• Share practice knowledge and contribute to service improvement through collaboration.

As an Aboriginal Family Practitioner, you will:

• Work alongside Aboriginal children and families to support safety, wellbeing and positive change
• Collaborate on child protection assessments involving Aboriginal families
• Support families to build on their strengths and connect with services that meet their needs
• Develop trusted relationships with Aboriginal communities and key stakeholders to strengthen support
• Share culturally informed advice to improve outcomes for Aboriginal children and young people.

About you:

• You build trusted relationships with Aboriginal children, families and communities
• You understand the strengths, diversity and experiences of Aboriginal people
• You can manage competing priorities, respond to changing circumstances and make informed decisions
• You communicate effectively and work collaboratively
• You recognise trends and emerging needs to identify opportunities for service improvement.

Whether you're applying as a Senior Aboriginal Family Practitioner or an Aboriginal Family Practitioner, you'll bring a commitment to culturally responsive practice that supports Aboriginal children and families.

Salary:

AHP2: $94,997 - $110,052 + 12% super
AHP1: $73,710 - $89,981 + 12% super

+4% child protection allowance
+Regional financial incentive
+Professional Development Allowance
+Qualification Allowance may apply if you hold an additional qualification relevant to the role.

AHP2 positions are also entitled to claim reimbursement of eligible professional development expenses through the Professional Development Allowance.

What’s in it for you – Perks That Matter:
At DCP, these are just some of the benefits you’ll enjoy:

• Paid relocation expenses, government employee housing, and other benefits may also be available for some roles based in regional South Australia. To find out more about working in the region, visit working with us in regional South Australia
• A collaborative team environment, working alongside people who are committed to best practice and making a meaningful impact
• Flexible working options with tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life
• Paid Parental and Partner Leave – additional paid time to support you and your growing family
• Recognition and Growth – we celebrate your achievements and open doors to development across DCP
• Salary Packaging – reduce your taxable income with a range of pre-tax benefits
• Health and Fitness Perks – free flu vaccination plus access to more than 1,700 gyms, fitness centres and pools across Australia through our Fitness Passport program for you and your family
• Wellbeing Support - confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family.

See our full list of benefits.

About the Recruitment Pool:

We are establishing a pool of suitable candidates who have successfully completed a selection process for this role. Should you be successful, you will be advised (in writing) that you have been recommended onto this pool. During the time the pool is active you may be contacted and offered employment. You are not required to accept any or all offers made to you, and DCP does not guarantee an offer of employment.

PLEASE NOTE: DCP reserves the right to advertise similar positions outside of this pool process.

Find out more about our Recruitment Pool process.

About DCP

The Department for Child Protection (DCP) plays a key role in the protection of children, young people and their families within South Australia. The department provides support to vulnerable children and young people to be safe, strong and connected.

Special Conditions:

For the purpose of this advertisement and links provided, the term Aboriginal is used to refer to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within South Australia. This is not intended to exclude Torres Strait Islander people, or people that identify as being of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent.

Essential:

• You must have a current Working With Children Check
• You must have a current Australian driver’s licence (P2 or above) and a willingness to drive.

For a successful application you will need to respond to all points listed under the your capabilities section of the attached role description. Please also note any special conditions that may be listed.

Want to know more? 

Contact Nirelle Ware - Principal Aboriginal Practitioner for a confidential discussion

Via tel: 0438 251 534 or email: [email protected].

Our workplace reflects the diverse communities we serve, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. This includes women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ communities, and those from culturally diverse backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace where everyone feels supported.

To apply for this role, please click here to be redirected to the DCP Career Portal.

Applications close: 30 June 2027, 11:00 PM