About Ngwala

Ngwala Willumbong is a leading provider of culturally safe and effective support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to supporting individuals affected by alcohol and other drug misuse, providing them with pathways to recovery through holistic and culturally appropriate rehabilitation programs.

Employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at Ngwala is essential to maintaining culturally aligned services. We STRONGLY encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply for this role and others as they become available.

About the Role

The Residential Rehabilitation Program Manager leads the day-to-day operations of Ngwala’s residential rehabilitation program, ensuring the delivery of safe, culturally responsive, and high-quality alcohol and other drug (AOD) recovery services. The role oversees staff, supports program development, and maintains effective systems for administration, data collection, and reporting. Working closely with clients and the broader Ngwala team, the Manager promotes positive client outcomes through quality case management, individual recovery planning, and culturally appropriate program activities. This position plays a key role in creating an environment that empowers Aboriginal people to achieve positive change, strengthen wellbeing, and reach their full potential.

Key Responsibilities:

Staff and Program Management

- Lead the delivery of program objectives, ensuring compliance with organisational, funding, and regulatory requirements.
- Monitor program performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement through audits, incident reviews, observations, and staff feedback.
- Investigate complaints and incidents in a timely manner and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
- Maintain accurate program records, registers, and operational documentation.
- Provide leadership, supervision, coaching, and performance management to staff.
- Participate in recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes as required.
- Ensure all staff receive comprehensive induction, training, and information necessary to perform their roles effectively.
- Foster a positive, culturally protected, and supportive workplace environment that promotes accountability, teamwork, and service excellence.

Client Management

- Assisting CSU in client intake process using the Comprehensive Assessment Tool (CAT)
- Ensuring the daily care and activities of clients are carried out as per the roster
- Advocating on behalf of clients where appropriate (this may include attending court, etc.)
- Sign off on individual treatment plans (ITPs), care and exit plans
- Reviewing client ITPs and support clients and staff to achieve set goals
- Review client files weekly
- Oversee that webster packs and medication is provided to clients as required




- Oversee the ordering, collecting, checking and recording of webster packs and scripts (ensure copies are placed in files)

House Management

- Ensure each resident is accommodated in a comfortable environment which is in good
- working order which meets QIP, Rooming House Standards
- Supervise and monitor daily activities of the centre
- Ensure all client appointments and program attendance are recorded and kept
- Conduct monthly meetings
- Prepare rosters for the centre staff
- Conduct internal audits of client files
- Ensure resources are effectively used
- Facilitate the processing of paperwork and client applications

Stakeholder/Partner Relationships

- Liaise with the community and various agencies and provide referrals
- Act as a main point of contact for external agencies

Financial

- Manage in house expenses (e.g. kitchen supplies) and adhere to program budgets
- Monitor petty cash and report cash flow to the Finance Team.

Data Management

- Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, case notes, and documentation.
- Ensure client confidentiality and professional information management practices are upheld.
- Gather and report client feedback to support continuous service improvement.
- Escalate concerns to management and respond appropriately to emergencies.
- Monitor, verify, and maintain accurate data across client management systems.
- Conduct regular data reviews and audits to ensure compliance and data integrity.
- Prepare reports and maintain records in line with organisational and funding requirements.
- Support quality service delivery through accurate data collection and reporting.

Food Handling Responsibilities

- Adhere to nutritional and dietary requirements for all meals
- Always maintain cleanliness and tidiness in the kitchen and dining room
- Ensure all staff maintain food handling certificates

Teamwork & Agency Representation

- Maintain professional boundaries and uphold confidentiality in all interactions.
- Represent and promote Ngwala and its programs in a professional, respectful, and culturally appropriate manner.
- Foster positive working relationships and address concerns in accordance with organisational policies and grievance procedures.
- Demonstrate Ngwala’s values through respectful and inclusive interactions with clients, colleagues, stakeholders, and community members.
- Contribute to a collaborative team environment that supports quality service delivery and positive client outcomes.





Skills & Experience

- Demonstrated ability to lead, supervise, and support a team of specialist workers.
- Sound understanding of the impacts of intergenerational trauma, grief, loss, and alcohol and other drug (AOD) issues experienced by Aboriginal communities.
- Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture, with a strong commitment to working within an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO).
- Proven leadership experience, including maintaining quality standards, compliance, and continuous improvement practices.
- Demonstrated experience in case management and client-centered service delivery.
- Strong organisational, administrative, and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently, show initiative, and contribute effectively as part of a team.
- Commitment to the vision, values, and culturally inclusive approach of the organisation.
- Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with clients, colleagues, external stakeholders, and community partners.
- Resilience and ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and challenging environment.
- Demonstrated ability to implement, lead, and support organisational and program change.
- Well-developed computer skills, including proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite and the use of mobile applications and client management systems.

Mandatory Requirements

- Current Victorian Driver's License
- National Police Certificate (no older than 3 months).
- Victorian Employment Working with Children Check

Desirable

- Cert IV/Diploma in Alcohol & Other Drugs or willingness to obtain qualification
- Training in Management
- Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Training
- Aboriginal & Torres Strait Mental Health First Aid
- Knowledge/Training in MARAM
- Training in Client Incident Management Systems (CIMS)
- First Aid

What We Offer

- Full-Time role, Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5 PM
- SCHADS Social & Community Level 4
- NFP Salary Packaging Advantages up to $15,900
- An chance to make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- A supportive and culturally inclusive work environment.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey and promoting cultural safety, we would love to hear from you. Please provide the following:

- A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for this role
- A resume which outlines your educational and employment background

For further information, please contact View email address on jobs.swagapp.com

*Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit pre-employment checks including a Police Check (no older than 3 months), Victorian Employment Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check.

📌 Residential Rehabilitation Program Manager (St Kilda)
🏢 Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal
📍 St Kilda