MDAS’ reason for being is described by our Elders as: Employed by our Community, to work for our Community… engaging, educating, and empowering individuals, families, and our Community in their journey to self‑determination. MDAS is committed to becoming a leading Aboriginal organisation known for making a practical difference to the lives of clients, families, and our Community. This is underpinned by our LORE , the foundation of who we are, what we do, and why we do it. Our organisation’s services, people, and culture are guided through strong leadership and meaningful engagement with Community and MDAS teams. OUR PURPOSE MDAS’ purpose is to: Heal, support, serve, and protect our communities throughout the Mallee Region. Promote healthy, resilient, and capable Aboriginal people and families who can be their best selves and exercise true self‑determination. Care for, strengthen, empower, motivate, and guide our Mob. ABORIGINAL/TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLE ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY POSITION SUMMARY This is a fixed term role with an end date of 30th June 2028. The Case Worker, Homelessness Services is primarily responsible for providing assistance to Aboriginal people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The role includes: Providing crisis accommodation and support options for individuals, young people and families. Delivering advice, referral, advocacy and support services. Providing case management, including assessment of client needs and risks. Developing and monitoring support plans tailored to each client’s circumstances. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Direct Service Delivery Plan service delivery tailored to each client to ensure coordinated, comprehensive support. Assess clients and utilise HEF and brokerage per guidelines; assist tenants with resolving tenancy issues. Link clients with services to ensure a holistic approach to meeting needs. Provide interim responses including emergency accommodation, food access, and public housing application support. Case Management Provide effective case management for clients with complex issues. Support continuity of care to prevent homelessness. Promote services to the Aboriginal Community and provide cultural advice to broader homelessness sectors. Monitor and support tenancies, maintaining relationships with real estate agents and landlords. Case manage clients residing in transitional housing. Reporting and Compliance Maintain accurate files and data as required by DHS and MDAS. Submit reports, project plans and required data at least one week before due dates. Participate in quality improvement activities within the department. Stakeholder Management Establish networks in the community to source practical support such as food, furniture and essentials. Maintain effective networks with key partners including Office of Housing, AHV, Mallee Family Care, Loddon Mallee Housing Network and rental providers. Represent MDAS by promoting the service within Aboriginal and broader communities. KEY SELECTION CRITERIA Case Management Working knowledge of the housing sector and community supports. Strong understanding of local Aboriginal community and family dynamics. Knowledge of relevant policies, legislation and program requirements. Demonstrated assessment skills and the ability to apply varied intervention strategies. Direct Service Delivery Understanding of frameworks relating to homelessness, family violence, AOD issues. Strong organisational and time-management skills. Confident written and verbal communication skills; ability to write reports and maintain accurate client records. Communication and Interpersonal Skills Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with diverse groups. Ability to consult, liaise and negotiate with Aboriginal and non‑Aboriginal people at all levels. Ability to understand client needs and negotiate effective solutions. Technical Expertise Ability to use Word, Excel, databases and general computer applications confidently. QUALIFICATIONS Certificate IV in Social Housing or Community Services, or willingness to obtain within 12 months. OTHER SCREENING REQUIREMENTS Current Australian Driver’s Licence. Current Employee Working with Children Check. Current National Police Check. MDAS CHILD SAFE & HEALTH REQUIREMENTS MDAS is a child‑safe organisation committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children. Employment is subject to a satisfactory National Police Check and Working with Children Check.
