Engagement Worker

Type: Part-time, 15 hours per week
Location: Canberra, ACT
Remuneration: Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (Level 3) + full salary packaging options available up to $15,900 per annum

About Us:               

Originally named The Wayside Foundation, The Ted Noffs Foundation was established in 1970 by the Australian humanitarian, Reverend Ted Noffs, who’s work championed social justice, mental health support, and innovative youth services. Today, the Foundation continues his legacy, delivering frontline services and community support across NSW, ACT & QLD. With over 200 staff and 350 volunteers, we remain deeply committed to helping young people affected by issues related to drugs, crime, and mental health. 

The Role:

The Engagement Worker plays a key role in supporting the operations of the 350 Program, an independent living initiative for young people aged 16 to 25. This program provides affordable housing for individuals who already possess basic independent living skills and require minimal support. The role is focused on program facilitation, resident accountability, and external engagement, rather than youth work or case management. Responsibilities and duties include:

Program Oversight & Resident Accountability

• Ensure residents adhere to program expectations, including maintaining their living space, managing rent, and following house rules.

• Conduct regular reviews and house meetings to discuss resident concerns, reinforce expectations, and address issues.

• Work with residents on goal setting and accountability, ensuring they remain on track with their independent living responsibilities.

• Manage bond payments, rent collection, and maintenance checks to ensure compliance with lease agreements.

• Address conflict resolution among residents and facilitate solutions when disputes arise.

• Uphold program policies and follow procedures for addressing non-compliance, including issuing strikes or escalations when necessary.

Community Engagement & External Connections

• Establish and maintain relationships with external organisations to increase awareness of the program and strengthen referral pathways.

• Refer young people to appropriate services for additional support, including employment, education, and mental health resources.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure a smooth transition for incoming and exiting residents.

Administration, Safety & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, reports, and documentation related to residents and program operations.

• Provide regular program updates to ensure residents are informed of any changes, expectations, or improvements.

• Ensure clear communication with residents, reinforcing responsibilities, expectations, and important program updates.

• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and organisational forums as required.

• Oversee maintenance updates and safety checks, ensuring the property remains in good condition and meets all health and safety standards.

• Ensure all program policies and procedures are followed to maintain a structured and safe living environment.
  

Additional Considerations:

• The role requires strong communication and conflict resolution skills to maintain positive relationships with residents.

• This is not a case management or youth work role—residents are expected to be self-sufficient, and the focus is on maintaining program structure and compliance.

• Flexibility is required, as the role involves balancing administrative tasks, resident engagement, and external networking.

• Commitment to the principles of harm minimisation and to the aims of the Ted Noffs Foundation.

• Successful candidate must have a current and valid ACT Working With Vulnerable People card, and Driver's Licence (minimum provisional status) with a good driving record.

If you're looking for work that’s real, challenging, and genuinely makes a difference—you’ve found the right place. At Noffs, we stand beside young people who’ve faced adversity early in life, offering free, evidence-based treatment and genuine care. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and walk alongside these young people on their journey, we’d love to hear from you.

How To Apply

Submit your application via SEEK with a Resume and a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria. 

The Ted Noffs Foundation is committed to equal employment opportunity and embraces diversity and inclusion within its workforce. As such, people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. This includes, but is not limited to First Nations People, People with Disability, Women and People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds.

As interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis, applicants are encouraged to apply at the earliest point and will be highly regarded. Interviews may be offered upon application. 

Please note only successful applicants will be contacted.