Job opportunity

The Department of Communities brings together the services and functions of disability services, child protection and family support, community initiatives and regional services reform.

Communities is a nationally recognised Accredited Carer Friendly Employer through the Carers + Employers program. The program defines best practice standards by creating a carer friendly workplace, enabling staff to balance work and care, while continuing to contribute to the wellbeing of individuals, families and the community.

The Opportunity

In the West Kimberley you have the opportunity to be one of two Senior Practice Development Officers (SPDO) working alongside your leadership colleagues and broader district staff in Broome, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing and surrounding communities, to deliver best practice approaches. You will be joining a committed, highly energised and motivated district who pride ourselves on a commitment to continuous improvement and working creatively and with passion to achieve positive outcomes for the children and families we work with.

The SPDO role in the West Kimberley has the unique opportunity to undertake regional travel and whilst driving and leading practice, will also present an opportunity for your own learning and growth as you apply policy and practice in regional and remote locations.  

Benefits of Working With Us

Working in the Kimberley Region attracts great benefits (subject to eligibility) including:

• Subsidised Government Regional Officer Housing
• Generous Personal Leave Entitlements (15 Days per annum)
• Additional 3 Days Public Service Leave per annum
• District Allowance $8361 for individuals or $16,722 with dependents and 17.5%
• Annual Leave Loading
• 14 Weeks Maternity/Other Parent Leave
• Cultural Leave for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Employees
• Air-conditioning subsidies
• Generous leave entitlements including 4 weeks annual leave and 1 week North West leave. You also accure 1 week Commuted TOIL and Free Pass to the Coast (includes the cost of a return flight to Perth or equivalent for you and your dependents) each year, after 12 months employment in the region.
• Flexible working arrangements
• Regular training and development opportunities
• Relocation assistance

The attached Job Description Form (JDF) provides more information about the position. For further information we encourage you to contact Rebekah Hosking, Assistant District Director on 0429 538 722 or via email at Rebekah.Hosking@communities.wa.gov.au.

There is currently 1 permanent position available for immediate filling, with the successful applicant to be based in Broome.

The successful applicant or applicants assessed as suitable through this process may receive further offers of contract employment and/or offers of permanent employment in this or similar roles.

Qualification Requirements
You must have a Bachelors degree in Social Work, Psychology, or relevant human services area to be eligible for this position. All overseas qualifications must be assessed for Australian equivalency. Refer to our website for information about the qualification requirements for this role, and how we will be assessing your qualifications.

Join the Department of Communities
Apply online by clicking the ‘Apply for Job’ button (above and below) and provide the following documents in Word or PDF format only:

1. A current resume/CV.
2. A two [2] page written application addressing all the Essential Work Related Requirements (Selection Criteria) as stated on the JDF.
3. A copy of your degree certificate and academic transcript (plus unit descriptors and/or overseas qualification assessment if applicable).
4. A copy of all qualification/s (regardless of the relevance to the role) as specified in your application or resume/CV (if applicable).
5. An application form (for hard copy applications only).

For technical difficulties while applying online, general recruitment enquiries, or to request any document in an alternative format, please contact Courtnie Hayes, A/HR Consultant via email on HRRecruitment@communities.wa.gov.au or 0466 517 569 during business hours only.

We can also be contacted via the National Relay Service on the following numbers:

TTY/voice calls - 133 677

Speak & Listen - 1300 555 727

SMS relay - 0423 677 767

Integrity and Honesty
The public sector is built on a strong foundation of integrity where employees act ethically, and public sector bodies promote and maintain integrity. 

In line with Communities policies, applicants may be asked for consent to undergo criminal record screening and integrity checks during the application process. For more information on these requirements, click here.  

Equity and Diversity

The Department of Communities is committed to improving employment opportunities and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.  As a measure to achieve equality and support, section 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA) will apply to this position.  Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply.

If you have any access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, or alternative methods of communication, please contact Courtnie Hayes, A/HR Consultant via email on HRRecruitment@communities.wa.gov.au or 0466 517 569 during business hours only.

If you are an Aboriginal person who would like assistance with your application, please contact Jobs and Skills WA on 13 64 64.

Lodgement is system generated. Any emailed applications or late submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted.