Advanced Specialist Domestic & Family Violence Advocate

Advanced Specialist DFV Advocate – [Level 5]

• Advocate for and support victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.
• Level 5 under the SCHADS Award, plus generous benefits.
• Be part of a supportive, collaborative team that values your professional development.
• Contribute to meaningful work focused on eliminating domestic and family violence.
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

About DVNQ

DVNQ is committed to delivering culturally appropriate, respectful, and holistic support to individuals impacted by domestic and family violence (DFV). Established in 1994, DVNQ operates in North Queensland, with a mission to eliminate DFV through advocacy, innovation, and collaboration.

Our values—Integrity, Compassion, Advocacy, Innovation, and Collaboration—are at the heart of how we work with clients, colleagues, and the community. We pride ourselves on a supportive, inclusive culture where leadership is positive and every team member contributes to our shared success.

Learn more about us at: www.DVNQ.com.au

About the Opportunity

DVNQ is currently seeking Advanced Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Advocates – Level 5 to join our team in Townsville, QLD.

As an Advanced Specialist DFV Advocate, your role is pivotal within DVNQ. Reporting to the Response Team Leader, this role provides specialist DFV support through trauma-informed risk assessment, safety planning, case management, and referrals. In addition, you will take on leadership responsibilities, including mentoring other advocates, and supervising service delivery.

There are numerous roles available both permanent part-time and fixed-term full-time.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the service delivery and development of trauma-informed practice in collaboration with the Team Leader
• Provide trauma-informed crisis response, including risk and needs assessments, safety planning, court support, coordinating emergency accommodation and safety upgrades.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder, court, community and agency partnerships; lead community education, awareness campaigns and advocacy initiatives.
• Provide mentorship, supervision and guidance to DFV Advocates to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Model positive team culture and values, contributing to a collaborative, reflective, culturally respectful, safe and supportive workplace.

For a copy of the full position descriptions, please email recruitment@dvnq.org.au.

Selection Criteria

To be considered, you will need to meet the following criteria:

Qualifications and Experience

• Tertiary qualification in a relevant human services field and/or a minimum of three years’ experience in the human services sector.

Skills and Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of DFV legislation, best practices, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Strong decision-making and case management skills.
• Proven ability to communicate complex and sensitive information effectively.
• Demonstrated cultural knowledge and ability to work respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples and provide culturally appropriate advice.
• Strong understanding of family structures, cultural protocols, and community connections.
• High level of digital literacy and experience with client record-keeping systems.
• Experience mentoring and supervising DFV practitioners.
• Advanced decision-making and practice leadership, including working within embedded service models.
• Ability to coordinate legal clinics and court work and engage with agencies like QPS.

Mandatory Requirements

• Current QLD C Class Driver’s Licence.
• Current Working with Children Check (Blue Card).
• Australia: National Police Check Clearance – at organisation expense.

We are looking for someone who is compassionate, collaborative, and committed to social justice. Your communication skills will allow you to build trust with clients and partner organisations while providing essential support to those in crisis.

About the Benefits

This is a Level 5 position under the SCHADS Award, with an hourly rate of $53.43 – $55.85, plus:

• Up to $15,900 salary packaging — boost your take-home pay
• Extra Christmas leave + 4 weeks annual leave + 17.5% loading
• Flexible working hours – Monday to Friday with rare out-of-hours needs
• Strong supervision culture – regular internal and external supervision
• Employee Assistance Program, annual flu shots, and more
• Commitment to staff wellbeing and growth — team days, training, mentoring

At DVNQ, we are committed to fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace where your contributions are valued and your professional development is encouraged.

If you share our values and have the skills necessary to bring success to the role, we invite you to apply today!

DVNQ is committed to inclusivity and advocacy, ensuring equitable access and respect for all people, regardless of cultural background, age, gender, sexuality, or disability.

How to Apply

Please apply through the link in the advertisement that will direct you to our recruitment platform. There you will be required to submit:

• Cover letter addressing each Selection Criteria
• Current resume
• Two professional referees (one must be your current or most recent line manager)
• Proof of education, qualifications, and/or experience

Applications close: 5pm Monday 7th September 2026

Please note: Applications that do not address the selection criteria or are received after the closing date will not be considered.