Family Violence Court and Social Support Worker

Safe Steps is the only 24/7, family violence response centre in Victoria, providing a “state-wide entry point” for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence. Services include information and referral, crisis response, specialist family violence risk assessment, safety planning, Webchat, and access to supported crisis accommodation.

Our vision is safety, support and respect for all victim-survivors of domestic and family violence. 

Our practice is trauma-informed and guided by evidence. We provide services to all victim-survivors and recognise that most of our work is dedicated to the needs of women and children which reflects the gendered nature of domestic and family violence.

THE ROLE

Safe Steps is seeking a Family Violence Court Social Support Worker to join our specialist Family Advocacy and Support Services (FASS) program.

Working in partnership with Victoria Legal Aid and court stakeholders, you will provide trauma-informed support to victim-survivors engaging with the family law system. You will conduct risk and needs assessments, safety planning, advocacy, referrals, and support clients navigating the complexities of family violence, family law and child protection systems. The role is primarily based at the Melbourne Family Law Courts Registry and works closely with legal, court and family violence professionals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct family violence risk and needs assessments using the MARAM framework.
• Support clients before, during and after court appearances.
• Assist clients in navigating family law, family violence and child protection systems.
• Work collaboratively with Victoria Legal Aid, court staff, police and community services.
• Liaise with courts regarding safety planning and court orders.
• Maintain accurate client records, case notes and service reports.
• Participate in stakeholder meetings, professional development and rotational duties within Safe Steps.
• Uphold Safe Steps’ commitment to inclusion, equity, and cultural safety for all communities

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

• Must be available Tues, Wed, Thurs 9am – 5pm
• Experience working within the family law, court, or justice system.
• Experience working within the specialist family violence sector.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the family law system and associated support services.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in social work, community services or a related field.
• Demonstrated understanding of family violence and its impacts on individuals and families.
• Experience conducting risk assessments, safety planning and client support.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed and feminist practice frameworks.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
• Current Victorian Driver Licence.
• Current Working with Children Check and willingness to undertake a National Police Check.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the Family Advocacy and Support Services (FASS) model.
• Understanding of the Family Violence Information Sharing Scheme (FVISS) and Child Information Sharing Scheme (CISS).

WHY JOIN US?

• Make a meaningful difference to victim-survivors at a critical point in their court journey.
• Join Victoria’s only 24/7 family violence response centre.
• Work alongside experienced family violence, legal and court professionals.
• Access salary packaging benefits to increase your take-home pay.
• Be part of a values-driven organisation committed to integrity, diversity and empowerment.
• Ongoing professional development, supervision and reflective practice opportunities.

INTERESTED? APPLY TODAY!

If this sounds like the role for you then click 'Apply Now' to submit your application.

Applications will be assessed as they are received and may close early once a suitable candidate is found.

Your application will not be considered unless you provide a cover letter and a Resume.

Safe Steps is an organisation committed to an inclusive and accessible workplace for all. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, people with disabilities, those from diverse cultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds, all ages, LGBTQIA+ people, and those with a diversity of experiences.