* Help children and families through complex adoption decisions. * Guide adoption workers and shape how you deliver services. * Put your expertise to work supporting people affected by adoption. * Build on your leadership skills while helping children and families. * Fixed-term, full-time role until June 2027, earning $110,910 - $122,380 per year, plus super. About us
Adoption Services Victoria is part of the Civil and Enforcement Services Group of the Department of Justice and Community Safety. Adoption Services delivers a range of services under the Adoption Act 1984 including counselling to people considering placing a child for adoption, assessing people to be approved to adopt a child from Victoria or overseas and providing records to people who have been affected by past adoptions. What you will do
As practice leader, you will guide casework and support people who use adoption services. You will help your team make informed decisions about children, families and access to adoption records.
You will: * manage casework and daily services, including professional supervision for adoption workers * develop and review case plans, assessments and support strategies to meet individual needs * guide workers through complex cases and share advice with other professionals * prepare detailed reports, review court reports and present advice and recommendations in court * use research to improve policies and services, working with agencies and community groups to address complex needs. About you
You must hold a recognised degree in social work or a similar welfare or behavioural field. Your degree must focus on child development, human behaviour, family dynamics or trauma, preferably with practical counselling or casework.
You should also have: * adoption expertise,



including its history and experience with complex casework and assessments * knowledge of adoption law, including the Adoption Act 1984 and placing children in alternative home care * sound judgement when applying theory and research to assess needs, review progress and plan support * leadership and communication skills to coach staff, understand different views and guide your team through change. To learn even more about this role, please read the position description. If you have any further questions, feel free to email Cathy Millon at [email protected].
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (Aboriginal) people are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about our Aboriginal workforce strategy.
How to apply
Please click the Apply button on this advertisement. Applications should include a resume and covering letter. Attachments can be uploaded in .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt or .rtf formats.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo pre-employment checks which may include national police checks and misconduct screening.
If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process, or require an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to get in touch with the contact person listed on this ad.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Child safe statement of commitment
The Department of Justice and Community Safety is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. We seek to prevent harm of any kind impacting children and young people and have zero tolerance for racism, child abuse and inequality. Children and young people's rights, relationships, identity, and culture must be recognised and respected, their voices heard, and their concerns acted upon. We aim to foster a culturally protected, child safe and child friendly environment for all children and young people we have contact with, deliver services to, or are impacted by our work.

📌 Practice Leader, Service Integrity (Melbourne)
🏢 Victorian Government
📍 Melbourne