Refuge Case Worker

This position is open to female applicants only, in accordance with Section 27 of the Equal Chance Act 1984 (WA), as the occupant’s gender is a genuine occupational qualification.

Make a Real Impact at Palmerston Association

Since 1980, Palmerston has been a leader in AOD support across WA, helping people improve their wellbeing. We offer specialised services in alcohol and other drug treatment, mental health, and wellbeing, through counselling, group support, residential rehabilitation, and education—reaching communities across the Perth metro, Peel, South West, and Great Southern regions.

About the Role

Here’s your opportunity to be part of a passionate, purpose-driven team that’s making a genuine difference every day.

? The Refuge Case Worker will deliver family and domestic violence accommodation and support services across Katanning and the Central Great Southern region, providing safe refuge and holistic support to women and children experiencing or at risk of family and domestic violence.

Working within a trauma-informed and client-centred approach, the role will provide case management, advocacy, and practical support to assist clients through crisis, recovery and transition. The position will work collaboratively with Palmerston staff, Kadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation, and external agencies to deliver coordinated, culturally safe support and positive outcomes for women and children.

This role is classified at Level 1 under the Social and Community Services and Crisis Accommodation Services Industry Award 2010.

This role requires confidence, compassion, and a steady presence. Working alongside vulnerable individuals means facing complex situations, high emotions, and occasional setbacks. That’s why we’re looking for someone who embodies compassion, connection, acceptance,



and respect—someone who can offer unwavering support while maintaining the ability to navigate difficult moments with confidence and care.

With a commitment to excellence in service, you’ll provide the stability and encouragement that empowers individuals on their journey toward change.

What We’re Looking For

You’re more than your qualifications—you’re someone who brings heart, empathy, professionalism and a strong commitment to supporting clients in improving their wellbeing. The ideal candidate will meet the following selection criteria:

- Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the issues affecting women and children who have experienced domestic/family violence.

- Sound understanding of trauma-informed practice, including the impact of complex trauma on individuals and families.

- Proven capacity to navigate interagency systems (e.g., housing, legal aid, health, Centrelink) to support clients' goals.

- Strong crisis response skills, including risk assessment, safety planning, and de-escalation techniques.

- Demonstrated commitment to culturally safe practice, with the ability to engage respectfully and effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Why Join Us?

At Palmerston, we value people—our clients, our communities, and our staff. Here’s what you can look forward to:

✨ Great Benefits:

- Salary packaging up to $15,900 + $2,650 for meals/entertainment

- 5 days of life & wellness leave (pro rata)

- 9 weeks paid parental leave for the primary carer





- 2 weeks paid partner leave for non-primary carers

- Option to purchase an additional week of leave each year

- Partial access to long service leave after 5 years

- Flexible, family-friendly work arrangements

- 17.5% annual leave loading (award-based staff)

- 5 days paid gender affirmation leave

? Inclusive Culture:

- Cultural leave (2 paid + 8 unpaid days) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff

- Staff-led working groups (RAP, Rainbow, Environmental, Disability Access & Inclusion)

- Aboriginal Staff Forum to connect and collaborate

- Our annual Big Day Out brings staff together from all sites to relax, connect and celebrate our work

- We’re Rainbow Tick accredited—the first and only AOD provider in WA to achieve this!

How to Apply

Ready to bring your passion to Palmerston? We’d love to hear from you.

Click “Apply” on Seek! Or, if its more convenient for you, drop off your application at one of our sites.

Be sure to include

- Your resume
- A cover letter addressing the selection criteria

- Answers to all application questions

⏳ Applications close: 30th November 2026.

We’re reviewing applications as they come in—so don’t wait!

A Few Final Details

You’ll need a valid WA Working with Children Check and a National Police Clearance (issued within the last 3 months).

? Got questions? Contact Kerry Arundel at 0499 848 774 or email [email protected]

Diversity makes us stronger. We seek and welcome diversity and a breadth of experience and backgrounds in our teams. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and people who identify as LGBTIQ+ are encouraged to apply.

Recruitment agencies, we appreciate your consideration. However, we strive to fill our opportunities through direct channels whenever feasible. If we require agency assistance, we will reach out.

📌 Refuge Case Worker (Katanning)
🏢 Palmerston Association
📍 Katanning