About our Jobs
Advanced Child Protection Practitioners are experienced caseworkers from the fields of Child Protection and Child & Family Welfare. They investigate, assess and manage complex cases of children at risk of significant harm from abuse or neglect. They are strong team members who demonstrate leadership qualities and appropriate levels of autonomy.
The Victorian Department of Human Service is responsible for statutory child protection services. Child Protection Practitioners are based in regional offices throughout Victoria and are part of a team of practitioners, supported by a team leader and other senior experienced staff.
Under the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005, child protection practitioners have a specific statutory role, which encompasses a range of diverse functions including:
- Providing advice and consultation to people who report concerns about children and young people.
- Assessing children and families where it is believed a child is at risk of significant harm.
- Engaging and working with children and families to promote the safety, stability and development of the child, and to strengthen family capacity.
In 2008 the Victorian Department of Human services implemented the Best Interest Case Practice Model to reflect the new case practice directions arising from the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005. BICPM provides a foundation for working with children, including the unborn child, young people and families. The model includes interconnected stages of professional practice, including information gathering, analysis and planning, action and review. Processes that underpin and enable good practice include; relationship building, engagement, partnership and empowerment.
Child protection work offers the opportunity to specialise in a range of areas including working with infants, adolescents indigenous children and families and culturally and linguistically diverse populations.
What qualifications are required?
The preferred qualifications are:
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Diploma of Community Welfare Work or Social Work
To be an Advanced Child Protection Practitioner you will need a minimum of two years case work experience in child and family social work.
What we can offer you
- Secure employment with the Victorian Government
- Information and support in relation to housing, education, health and the local community
- Orientation to the region and the local professional network
- Quality induction training with a group of supportive peers
- Ongoing support and professional development
- Regular supervision and feedback with senior staff
- Career progression opportunities