Make a real difference to the local community
Full-Time, Fixed – Term 12 Months
Access to Salary Packaging
Generous Annual Leave
The Role
This role plays a pivotal role in contributing to Wathaurongs family services leadership and providing expert practice advice utilising relevant theoretical frameworks.
The Practice Leader is responsible for providing practice leadership, expert advice and mentoring to areas of the Family Services team as directed by the Family Services Manager.
In addition, it promotes evidence informed interventions and build capabilities in the staff teams who work in family services.
Leadership functions will be in accordance with the relevant industrial instruments and regulations and agency policies and procedures ensuring alignment with Wathaurong's Strategic and Operation plans.
The Practice Leader will also work with the Family Services manager to build and maintain effective partnerships with both internal and external stakeholders when required.
About You
Essential
Only Aboriginal and Torres Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons are eligible to apply for this role.
This is a special measures role and only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are eligible to apply, under the special measures provision, section 12(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act **** (Vic).
Relevant qualification (or working toward) in Community Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related area and/or experience providing support services to families and young children
Experience or demonstrated capability to lead and support team members in the out of home care sector
Knowledge and experience undertaking mandatory reporting requirements
Demonstrated knowledge of the Children, Youth and Families Act
Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to develop positive stakeholder relationships and communicate with diverse individuals in a culturally appropriate manner




Ability to demonstrate resilience and work in challenging and high-pressured environments
Strong written communication skills including a high level of accuracy, record keeping, and report writing abilities
Ability to work effectively and cooperatively as part of a team and follow processes
Understanding of and demonstrated experience in Case Management principals
Knowledge of safe and appropriate culturally centred practices for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander focused services, including employment of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people
Demonstrated understanding of social, physical, economical, and cultural strengths and challenges affecting Aboriginal communities and their ability to access adequate and quality services
Understanding of the purpose and expectations of the Victorian Child Safe Standards and demonstrated commitment to contributing to a child safe organisation in both practice and culture
Desirable
Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
*A police check, Working with Children Check, Vaccination Certificate and current Driver Licence are required for all positions.
About Us
Please visit our website for further information:
How to Apply
A Position Description can be viewed on our website at:
Applications should consist of a current resume and a cover letter, submitted in Word or PDF format before the closing date of 27/11/2026.
Wathaurong is committed to providing a child safe workplace.
We have zero tolerance of any abuse or maltreatment of children.
We are committed to ensuring children and young people can actively participate in decisions that affect their lives.
All children have the right to be children and live free of abuse and neglect, so they can grow, learn, and develop.
Everyone within Wathaurong is responsible for ensuring a culture of child safety, preventing child abuse, and abiding by the Child Safety Principles.

📌 Family Services Practice Lead (Geelong)
🏢 Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative
📍 Geelong