BDAC is an ACCO (Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation) registered as a member under the umbrella of VACCHO (Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation) and represented nationally through NACCHO (National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation).
BDAC was founded to represent and provide services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living on Djaara Country.
BDAC has a responsibility to ensure growth of services, development of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, better and improved health outcomes for our people, improved quality of life and be a lead agency in providing self-determination employment and career pathways for Aboriginal people.
What We Are Offering
Full time
Fixed term 12 months
$44.58 per hour
Access to Salary Packaging
12% Superannuation
Supportive work environment
Ongoing training and development opportunities
Job Description
About the Position
This is a meaningful opportunity for an Aboriginal &/or Torres Strait Islander person to support young people at risk of, or involved in, the justice system.
Working within BDAC’s Youth Pathways team, you’ll provide culturally safe, strengths-based support to help young people reconnect with family, culture and community, and build positive futures for young mob.
The role focuses on promoting social inclusion and creating real alternatives to offending through education, training, activities, and community support. You'll work closely with families, and services to ensure a holistic, culturally appropriate approach.
You’ll also help strengthen BDAC’s ability to support young mob by working alongside a small, dedicated team of experienced youth workers.
Key Responsibilities
Provide direct support to Aboriginal &/or Torres Strait Islander young people to help them build strong connections to culture, community, and positive pathways.
Work closely with Youth Justice case managers to provide culturally safe support to Aboriginal young people and their families.
Complete Aboriginal Cultural Support Plans with young people involved in Youth Justice.
Identify and support Aboriginal young people at risk of entering the justice system, with a focus on cultural connection and community engagement.
Collaborate with schools, Victoria Police, and other partners (e.g. RAJACs) to design and deliver programs that support early intervention and diversion.
Strengthen relationships between Youth Justice services and the local Aboriginal community, including connections with Elders, leaders, and culturally appropriate services.
Prepare reports for BDAC management, the Department of Justice, and other stakeholders as required.
Keep accurate case notes and records in line with both BDAC and funding body requirements.
Desired Skills and Experience
About You
A strong connection to and understanding of the local Aboriginal community, including cultural values and the impacts of intergenerational trauma.
A genuine interest in working with Aboriginal &/or Torres Strait Islander young people, with the ability to build trust and meaningful relationships.
Willingness to engage with families, Elders and community members in a respectful and culturally appropriate way.
Experience &/or interest in learning how to support young people who are at risk of, or involved in, the justice system.
Willingness to support young people in challenging situations, including in court or other formal settings, with guidance and supervision as needed.
A basic understanding (or willingness to learn) about the Youth Justice system, relevant policies, and the role of cultural connection in supporting young people.
Awareness of the importance of cultural support planning and how identity and connection to community can support a young person’s wellbeing.
Basic computer and writing skills, with the ability to complete case notes, reports, and maintain client records.
Good time management and organisational skills, with the ability to balance tasks and ask for support when needed.
Some knowledge of local services and referral pathways, or a willingness to develop this knowledge on the job.
Education, Training and/or Competencies.
Mandatory
A minimum Certificate III in Community Services, Youth Work (or currently working towards completion).
Preferred/ desired
Previous experience working with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community members or in an Aboriginal organisation (preferred)
How to Apply
If this role sounds like the role for you then click on the link below and apply by attaching your resume, cover letter detailing how you suit the role and a document addressing theKey Selection Criteria by Wednesday of October2025.
Mandatory Requirements
Should an applicant be the preferred candidate, background checks (Police check, reference check and Working with Children's Check) will be completed prior to the candidate’s employment being confirmed.
For more information about this position please see the Position Description which can be accessed via our website www.bdac.com.au or contact our human resources team on (03) 5442 4947 or send an email through to recruitment@bdac.com.au
Please note: This is an Aboriginal Designated Position, classified under ‘special measures’ of section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.
