Refuge Coordinator – Full Time

Whitsunday Region, QLD
Salary Packaging | Relocation Support | Purpose‑Driven Work

For more than 30 years, Whitsunday Counselling & Support Inc. (WCS) has been a trusted, compassionate presence supporting individuals and families impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence, as well as those seeking therapeutic counselling and community connection. Our work is grounded in our organisational values of respect, cultural safety, integrity, empowerment, and trauma‑informed practice.

As the region’s only dedicated DFV service, we are committed to reducing the impact and incidence of violence through evidence‑informed programs, early intervention, crisis responses, and collaborative community partnerships. We walk alongside our clients with care, professionalism, and a deep belief in their strength.

We are now seeking a skilled and values‑driven Refuge Coordinator to lead our Refuge and Transitional Housing Program.

About the Role

In this pivotal leadership position, you will guide a dedicated team delivering crisis and transitional accommodation to women, children and families experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence. You will ensure our refuge environment is safe, culturally responsive, trauma‑informed, inclusive and empowering, in line with WCS values and practice frameworks.

Key responsibilities include:
⭐ Program & Team Leadership

- Lead the day‑to‑day operations of the refuge and transitional housing program

- Provide supportive, strengths‑based supervision and ongoing professional development to staff

- Oversee safety, compliance, critical incident processes and on‑call coordination

- Model WCS values of respect, dignity,



collaboration and professionalism

⭐ Client & Accommodation Coordination

- Oversee referrals, intake, risk assessments and unit allocations

- Maintain SHIP/SHOR, QHIP and accommodation reporting

- Support tenants with Centrelink, tenancy processes, arrears and rental reports

- Ensure all client support is client‑centred, culturally safe and trauma‑informed

⭐ Therapeutic & Case Management Oversight

- Guide high‑quality case management, safety planning and needs assessment

- Support collaborative case planning across housing, financial wellbeing, child safety, legal and health needs

- Coordinate referrals to internal and external supports

- Respond to high‑risk domestic and family violence situations with timely, evidence‑informed interventions

⭐ Safety, Risk & Compliance

- Lead risk monitoring, safety audits and site safety procedures

- Ensure adherence to DFV, child protection and WHS legislation

- Maintain security, fire safety, maintenance registers and contractor compliance

- Uphold organisational practice frameworks grounded in human rights and Child Secure principles

⭐ Program Development & Community Connection

- Support the development of resources, tools and group programs

- Engage in community education, prevention initiatives and stakeholder partnerships





- Contribute to continuous service improvement and innovation across WCS programs

What You Will Bring

We are seeking someone who embodies professional integrity, compassion, cultural respect and a commitment to client and staff safety.

Essential:

- 2 years in a Team Leader or Coordinator role preferrable

- 3+ years working in the DFV sector

- Experience supervising and supporting staff

- Strong understanding of trauma‑informed practice, DFV risk assessment and child safety

- High‑level communication skills and the ability to foster respectful, collaborative relationships

Qualifications:

- Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Social Sciences (desirable)

- Blue Card (or eligibility to obtain)

- Open Driver Licence

- Eligibility for professional membership (AASW, APS, ACA desirable)

Why Join WCS?

At WCS, you will be part of an organisation that prioritises safety, compassion, professional excellence, and community impact.

- Purpose‑driven work grounded in strong organisational values

- Salary packaging to increase take‑home pay

- Relocation support may be available

- Supportive leadership, reflective supervision and ongoing training

- Be part of a passionate team creating safer futures for local families

- Live and work in the spectacular Whitsundays

How to Apply

Please submit via Seek your:
✅ Cover Letter addressing the Selection Criteria
✅ Resume
✅ Professional referees

Applications close 31 July 2026. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date.

For a copy of the Position Description, please contact ******@whitsundaycs.com.au.

📌 Refuge Coordinator (Townsville)
🏢 Whitsunday Counselling & Support
📍 Townsville