Nova for Women and Children is seeking a passionate and dedicated Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Case Worker to work within the DVRE Project funded by the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ).

About us and what we offer

Nova for Women and Children is a leading community services organisation that provides interim, transitional and outreach support and crisis accommodation options to women and children across the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie regions who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness or who are escaping family and domestic violence.

Nova for Women and Children is the amalgamation of Eva’s Project, Lower Hunter Women’s Housing and Eastlake’s Women’s and Children’s Refuge and has been operating in Newcastle for approximately 38 years. In 2018, Nova for Women and Children were awarded the Australia Day Community Group of the Year Award from Newcastle City Council.

Nova for Women and Children offers a supportive culture and attractive conditions of employment, including:

• above Award salary and conditions;
• standard 9-day fortnights;
• weekly wellbeing hour;
• ongoing professional development opportunities;
• thank you days;
• salary packaging benefits; and
• Employee Assistance Program.

About the role

In the role of DFV Case Worker, you will work within the DVRE Project as the initial point of contact for women, with or without children, who require an immediate response to a domestic violence incident. This role will also provide case management support outside the DVRE Project. Reporting to a Team leader, your day-to-day tasks and responsibilities will include:

• act as the first point of contact for women and children who access the DVRE project, including but not limited to phone support counselling while a referral is being sourced in immediate response to a domestic violence;
• undertaking person-centred care, strength-based case management for housing goals, wellbeing, community participation and family support;
• case work such as provided tailored tenancy information, appropriate referrals, and guidance to facilitate self-advocacy and positive outcomes for clients;
• applying your case work expertise with other team members on complex matters;
• develop and implement support plans for participants and their children that support independent living skills and support networks; and
• developing and maintaining relationships with external and external stakeholders including government departments, real estate agents and private accommodation providers.

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualifications.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience providing holistic person-centred care for women and children.
• Passion for supporting women and children in our community.
• Thorough understanding of domestic violence with families and relationships.
• Comprehensive knowledge of local community services.
• Excellent communication skills.

Being female is a genuine occupational qualification as per section 31(2) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW). Prior to an offer of employment, you will be required to have a current driver’s licence and Working with Children Check.

COVID-19 Vaccination is a condition of employment in accordance with Nova’s COVID-19 Management Plan.

How to apply

Confidential enquiries can be made to Skildare on (02) 4940 8743. Alternatively, you can request an information pack by emailing [email protected]. 

Applications, including a CV and cover letter with an overview as to your experience relating to this position, can be submitted by clicking APPLY. 

Shortlisting for this position will commence immediately.  You are encouraged to apply promptly as applications close when suitable applicants are obtained. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Nova welcomes and encourages women of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and Culturally and Linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply.