Description:
About Marist180Welcome to Marist180, where we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the community through our passionate team and meaningful work. We are currently seeking a committed Safeguarding Officer to join us on a permanent full-time basis at our Blacktown location, in the vibrant Parramatta & Western Suburbs of NSW.
As part of our Governance and Risk department within the field of Community Services and Development , this role presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to our mission of creating safer environments for vulnerable individuals. If you have a genuine interest in safeguarding and protecting others and are eager to make a difference, we invite you to explore this rewarding career opportunity with us at Marist180.
Job Description About the RoleThe Safeguarding Officer will serve as the primary point of contact for all safeguarding matters, offering expert advice, guidance, and support to staff on a wide range of issues, including but not limited to reportable conduct, safeguarding , and child protection . This role plays a crucial part in safeguarding vulnerable individuals and ensuring that Marist180 adheres to the highest standards of safety and protection.
Primary accountabilities of the role of Safeguarding Officer include, but are not limited to:
- Promote a high-quality evidence-based service, developing effective inter-disciplinary and interagency relationships to improve the outcomes for children/young people at risk of abuse and/or neglect.
- Act as the primary point of contact for all safeguarding, child protection and reportable conduct matters, providing timely, expert support and advice in order to safeguard young people in our care.
- Assess and determine validity of allegations under the provisions of the Reportable Conduct scheme, Office of Children Guardian Act 2019 or Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act. Consult with the Ombudsman to confirm threshold.
- Conduct safeguarding reporting and compliance requirements to the OCG and other regulatory bodies (i.e., 7-day, 30 day and Entity Reporting) efficiently and timely.
- Coordinate, brief and act as primary contact to all external Investigators.
- Represent Marist180 in all PAC meetings; coordinate and communicate with other external bodies e.g. DCJ, Police, JCPR
- Coordinate professional standards matters with Human Resources, including requesting initial notification letter for the Person Subject of Allegation (PSOA) be drafted and issued by the Human Resources department
- Identify and assess risks related to child safeguarding provision and escalate appropriately to the Head of Safeguarding and Safeguarding Manager.
- Maintain up to date, accurate and legible notes (written and electronic) and confidential records.
The candidate
Qualifications:
- Tertiary Qualification in a relevant field.
Experience & Skills:
- Previous experience in safeguarding, compliance, quality management, investigation management, complaints handling role or similar.
- Sound knowledge of legislation that pertains to Safeguarding and Child Protection principles and practices including Ombudsman, Office of the Children’s Guardian or the National Disability Insurance Agency guidelines.
- Understanding of best practice principles for investigation processes desirable.
- Demonstrated report writing skills.
Work Requirement :
- Clear National Criminal History Check.
- Working with Children’s Check.
- Valid NSW drivers’ licence.
- Ability to work in Australia.
Immediate availability is preferred.
How to apply
Click “Apply Now” to submit your online application, please ensure you attach a resume and cover letter addressing the selection criteria. For more information about the position, please refer to the Position Description attached.
Marist180 is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture across the agency. We welcome and encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applications who meet the requirements of the position from diverse community groups and ages including people with disabilities and other diversity groups. Marist180 recognises the benefits that such an approach brings for our staff and clients within our programs.
Please Note: The successful applicant will be subject to background checks including a National Criminal History Check and a verification of your Working with Children’s Check.
ONLY SHORTLISTED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED