Special Homelessness Service Program Worker

ABOUT US

For over 30 years, Northern District Community Health (NDCH) has supported healthy, inclusive rural communities across all ages. Partnering with health services and government, we provide integrated, accessible care tailored to rural needs.

Our services include medical care, allied health, nursing, mental health, counselling, health promotion, and community programs. We also offer in-home support for older adults to help them age in place and stay connected.

Serving the Gannawarra, Buloke, Loddon Shires, and the Rural City of Swan Hill, NDCH employs over 120 staff and 130 volunteers across towns like Cohuna, Kerang, Boort, and Swan Hill. We offer rewarding careers with a genuine work-life balance for passionate professionals.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Specialist Homelessness Service Program Worker provides high-quality, person-centred support to individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless. The role involves conducting assessments, developing support plans, providing advocacy, and coordinating referrals in line with the Homelessness and Housing Support Guidelines and the Opening Doors Framework. The position also ensures compliance with funding requirements while upholding NDCH’s vision and values.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Assessment and Planning

• Conduct comprehensive assessments under the Opening Doors Framework.
• Complete risk and safety assessments, including family violence (MARAM).
• Develop individualised support plans focused on housing stability, safety, and wellbeing.
• Provide culturally safe engagement, offering choice of mainstream or ACCO services for Aboriginal clients.

Housing Access and Support

• Assist clients to access the Victorian Housing Register and other housing pathways.
• Support private rental applications and brokerage (bond, arrears, utilities).
• Provide timely referrals for clients at risk of housing instability.
• Support transitional housing and tenancy processes.

Information Management and Teamwork

• Maintain accurate, confidential records in SHIP and NDCH systems.
• Meet SHS reporting (SHSC), CIMS, and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure compliance with privacy and information-sharing legislation (FVISS/CISS).
• Participate in supervision, training, reflective practice, and multidisciplinary teamwork.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential

• Diploma or higher in Social Work, Community Services, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience in the community services sector (including relevant student placements).

Desirable

• Understanding of homelessness causes and impacts on individuals and families.
• Knowledge of regional homelessness services and supports.
• Ability to work autonomously while maintaining professional standards.
• Strong partnership-building and collaboration skills.
• Effective time management, flexibility, and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and teamwork skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.

WHY JOIN US?

At NDCH, we’re more than a workplace, we’re a community committed to healthier, inclusive rural lives. Guided by values like courage and inclusivity, we offer a supportive, flexible environment prioritising well-being and growth. As a not-for-profit, we provide salary packaging, real career opportunities, and meaningful community impact. Here, your voice matters and your work make a difference.

Application Requirements

• Complete mandatory pre-employment checks (e.g., references, work rights, police, child safety, NDIS checks); appointment depends on results.
• Maintain valid Police, Working with Children, and NDIS checks during employment.
• Provide and keep current professional registrations and driver’s license.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit the following documents via the form below:

• A current Resume (CV)
• A Cover Letter detailing your interest in the position
• A separate Key Selection Criteria response

If you require further information, please contact the People & Culture Team at Northern District Community Health on (03) •••• •200 or car••••@ndch.org.au.

Northern District Community Health is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people with disability.