Specialist Children's Practitioner

The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

This position is responsible for the provision of a high quality, integrated, family assessment and response program with a strong focus on parent education and skill development to enhance child development and healthy attachment, supported by Salvation Army Youth Services.

Why work with us?

Youth Services is dedicated to working alongside young people experiencing crisis. Many of the young people we support are also parents—parents who are navigating the challenges of trauma, instability, and complex needs.

About the role

We are seeking a dedicated Specialist Children’s Practitioner! You will be responsible for the provision of a high quality, integrated assessment and response program for children supported by Salvation Army Youth Services. The Salvation Army Youth Services is committed to working in partnership with young people to address the issues contributing to their unique experience of crisis & homelessness.

You will empower these families with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to nurture their children and build strong relationships.

You will successfully

• Deliver tailored, on-site parent education and group work focused on secure attachment, healthy routines, and child safety
• Conduct comprehensive family assessments to identify strengths, risks, and opportunities for growth
• Offer secondary consultations to case managers and support staff to enhance child-focused service delivery
• Develop and implement holistic support plans that promote child development, safety, and well being
• Create custom education resources to suit individual parent needs and increase service awareness
• Recommend and model engagement and play strategies that promote parent-child bonding
• Provide ongoing staff training to strengthen child development knowledge and trauma-informed practice

Reporting to the Client Services Coordinator, this is a permanent part-time position, based in St Kilda and Chadstone, VIC.

Compensation is in accordance with SCHADS Award Level 5.

You will have

• Minimum degree qualification in social work or related discipline
• Experience or training in early childhood education or related discipline is preferred
• Experience working with parents to promote child development and/or parent education programs or tools
• Experience in service delivery with children and families who have experienced trauma
• A current Victorian Driver's Licence
• A current Employee Working With Children's Check

What we offer

When you join The Salvation Army, you become part of a movement for justice, hope, and dignity. We offer:

• Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefit;
• Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities;
• Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives
• Ongoing training and development to deepen your skills and knowledge
• The chance to work with a mission-driven organisation committed to meaningful social change
• Up to 5 days paid leave per year to support a TSA program or activity
• An inclusive culture of dedicated, passionate, and professional team members
• Positively supporting and impacting the lives of others through your career contribution

Why Join The Salvation Army?

We’re more than an iconic name—we’re a mission. At The Salvation Army, we believe in Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration. We stand for justice and work to ensure every Australian has the chance to live with dignity and hope.

Your purpose starts here. Apply Now and make an impact.

When you work for The Salvation Army, you're not just building a career—you’re building hope. Hope for young parents, for their children, and for a future where every family has the tools and support they need to thrive.

Please send CV and cover letter addressing the following:

• Minimum degree qualification in social work or related discipline
• Experience or training in early childhood education or related discipline is preferred
• Experience working with parents to promote child development and/or parent education programs or tools
• Experience in service delivery with children and families who have experienced trauma

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration