Therapeutic Youth Residential Care Worker - Western Region

The Opportunity

Residential Care & Therapeutic Residential Care (TRC) is intensive and time-limited care for a child or young person in statutory care that responds to the complex impacts of abuse, neglect and separation from family. This is achieved through the creation of positive, safe, healing relationships and experiences informed by a sound understanding of trauma, damaged attachment and development needs. 

• Ballarat Victoria area, Homes on Wadawurrung Country
• Various opportunities available
• Base salary $71K - $80K pa (pro rata) dependent on experience and qualifications + salary packaging + super + penalty rates

IMPORTANT DATES:

• Applications closing: Friday 13th November 2026
• Group Assessment: Friday 20th November 2026
• 2 day face-to-face Orientation Training is mandatory for all successful candidates: Monday 30th November and Tuesday 1st December 2026

*Please note your in person attendance is a mandatory portion of your application.

While the role is deeply rewarding, it also presents its own set of challenges. Working with children and young people who have endured trauma, neglect, and abuse requires resilience, compassion, and a commitment to their growth and well-being.

We are looking for individuals who have a strong sense of self, are resilient and who are truly able to understand trauma and the behaviours of vulnerable young people in the Out of Home Care sector. You will provide therapeutic support and care and have the potential to truly make a difference to a young person's life.

On the Job, You Will: 

• Work collaboratively within a dedicated team to deliver high-quality therapeutic care. 
• Implement current best practice therapeutic interventions and program guidelines to ensure the highest standard of care and child safety. 
• Serve as a positive role model, supporting young people in their educational, social, and recreational pursuits while fostering independence. 
• Create a safe and nurturing home environment, including managing household duties and providing nutritious meals. 

Your Skills and Experience: 

• A team worker – ability to work with various stakeholders, share ideas with a constructive approach to reach common goals focusing on the best interests of the young person.
• Great at relationship building – listening and giving your time. Respecting yourself and others and have professional boundaries.
• Flexibility – be open to new ideas, cope with unexpected change and multitask with ease. Be creative in your thinking and approach each task without judgement and confidence.
• You must hold a drivers licence (minimum green P’s) as the role will transport young people from time to time.

A minimum Cert IV in Child, Youth & Family Intervention or equivalent qualification is required or equivalent

• Applicants must complete the mandatory upskilling units as required by Department of Families, Fairness and Housing. Continuing employment is dependent on satisfactory evidence provided within 6 months of being engaged in the role.

Interested?

Applications including resume and cover letter addressing the key selection criteria for the position.

For inquiries, contact our Talent Acquisition Team at [email protected]

Please Note; the successful applicant will be subject to comprehensive reference and background checking prior to employment, including a Working with Children Check and National and International Police check (if required) and Worker Care Exclusion Scheme.

Berry Street is committed to being a child safe, child friendly and child empowering organisation. In everything we do we seek to protect children. We are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children; children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds; children with a disability; children who identify as LGBTIQA+. We aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their cultural background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, spirituality or religion.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds and people with a disability are encouraged to apply.