KEY WORKER – DISABILITY SUPPORT WORKER (COMPLEX / FORENSIC SUPPORTS) EMPRESS SUPPORT SERVICES Location: Northern Suburbs (Donnybrook / Craigieburn Corridor) SCHADS Award (Level based on experience) penalties Employment Type: Casual (structured ongoing roster) About the Role We are seeking an experienced and grounded Key Worker to support a participant transitioning into Supported Independent Living (SIL) within a single-occupancy, robust environment. This role requires someone who can provide structured, consistent, and safe support within a forensic-informed and behaviourally complex environment, while working closely with the care team and allied health professionals. You will play a key role in establishing routine, stability, and a safe environment during a critical transition period. Participant Overview You will be supporting a participant who presents with: Psychosocial disability and emotional regulation needs History of behaviours of concern (BOC) Justice-involved / forensic background Transitioning into SIL with a focus on stability and routine Preference for low stimulus, structured living environment Key Responsibilities Participant Support Deliver consistent, person-centred support aligned with the Behaviour Support Plan (BSP) Support daily routines, emotional regulation, and structured engagement Identify early signs of escalation and respond using approved strategies Promote independence while maintaining safety and stability Structure & Consistency Maintain clear and consistent routines across all shifts Support implementation of structured daily schedules Ensure continuity of care through clear communication and handovers Behavioural Support & Safety Respond to behaviours of concern using de-escalation strategies Maintain professional boundaries and a calm, non-reactive approach Follow all safety protocols, including staff safety procedures Utilise designated safe spaces when required Documentation & Communication Complete accurate progress notes and incident reports Communicate effectively with the care team, including allied health Contribute to ongoing observations to support clinical decision-making Team Collaboration Work closely with the Services & Complex Program Manager and wider MDT Support consistency across all staff working with the participant Participate in training, reflective practice, and team reviews What We Are Looking For We are specifically looking for staff who: Have experience supporting participants with complex behavioural and psychosocial needs Are confident working in forensic or justice-related environments Can maintain structure, routine, and clear boundaries Remain calm under pressure and respond effectively to escalation Understand the importance of consistency across shifts Are team-oriented and able to follow a structured support model Essential Requirements Certificate III or IV in Disability, Community Services, or equivalent NDIS Worker Screening Check & Police Check First Aid & CPR Manual Handling & Infection Control Mental Health First Aid (or willingness to obtain immediately) Experience working with behaviours of concern and complex participants Strong communication and documentation skills Highly Desirable Experience in forensic / justice-involved settings Understanding of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) frameworks Training in MAPA, CPI, PMAB or similar (de-escalation-focused) Experience in SIL or transitional accommodation environments Work Environment Single-occupancy robust home Structured, low-stimulus setting 24/7 support model with OOA arrangements Strong clinical and operational support from Empress leadership Why Join Empress Support Services At Empress, we focus on quality over volume. Our complex programs are designed to provide: Strong leadership and structured support models Ongoing training and development Clear communication and expectations A team-based approach to complex care Important Requirement Due to participant-specific needs and Behaviour Support Plan recommendations, female support workers are required for this role. This role requires maturity, consistency, and professionalism. It is best suited to individuals who are confident working in structured environments and can maintain clear boundaries while delivering high-quality support. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you. Apply now.
