Aboriginal Homes First Case Manager

About Ngwala

Ngwala Willumbong is a leading provider of culturally safe and effective support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to supporting individuals affected by alcohol and other drug misuse, providing them with pathways to recovery through holistic and culturally appropriate rehabilitation programs.

Employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at Ngwala is essential to maintaining culturally aligned services. We STRONGLY encourage Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people to apply for this role and others as they become available.

About the Role

Ngwala’s Homes First Program provides long-term (up to three years) case management and service coordination to Aboriginal individuals or families who have experienced chronic homelessness. Delivered by Ngwala, this role supports clients across Melbourne, focusing on culturally safe, trauma-informed, and person-centred support to help them secure and sustain housing, while also addressing broader health, wellbeing, and cultural needs.

Working with a limited caseload of clients allows for meaningful, consistent engagement with each community member. This role is assertive outreach based to ensure we are meeting clients where they feel most comfortable, in the community, in their homes, or on Country. Utilising Clients centred practise with flexible support, respectful engagement and ensuring alignment with client goals and pace.

The role supports strong outcomes by following the Housing First approach and staying true to Ngwala’s values, with a focus on Aboriginal-led support, cultural healing, and community connection. It’s grounded in respect for culture, Country, and an understanding of how trauma, housing instability, and disconnection affect people’s lives.

Expected outcomes include stable housing within the first year, inceased physical and mental health, and a stronger sense of safety, identity, and belonging. Over time, clients may have fewer hospital visits, less contact with the justice system, improved self-esteem, stronger family and cultural ties, and feel confident to seek support in the future if needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a small caseload in an outreach capacity, providing intensive case management, support coordination, advocacy, and referrals to help Aboriginal community members achieve their goals around long-term housing, health, and wellbeing.
• Provide support that aligns with Housing First principles, by offering housing without preconditions and ensuring ongoing support is client-led, flexible, and focused on sustaining long-term housing and wellbeing.
• Use persistent but respectful engagement strategies to build strong, ongoing relationships, understanding that trust may take time due to past trauma or negative experiences with services.
• Coordinate and participate in case conferences, support planning, and exit planning with other services and organisations to ensure wraparound, culturally safe support.
• Apply Ngwala’s trauma-informed, culturally grounded case management approach, guided by the Homes First model and the needs of the individual.
• Monitor progress towards program goals and adjust support plans as needed to stay responsive to client needs.
• Maintain accurate and timely records and data collection in line with organisational policy and funding requirements.
• Work collaboratively with other ACCOs and First Nations workers to ensure culturally appropriate service delivery and strong community connection.
• Complete risk assessments and safety plans when working in the community or with clients experiencing complex needs.
• Support a workplace culture that encourages peer support, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Contribute to a safe, respectful working environment by following all health and safety procedures.

Skills & Experience

• Certificate IV in Community Services or relevant (Desirable)
• Experience in welfare work and / or community development
• Experience in working with Aboriginal people experiencing family violence or at risk of homelessness
• Demonstrated understanding of the unique health challenges and social issues faced by the Aboriginal community, including the impacts of alcohol and drug use, family dynamics and homelessness.
• Ability to provide culturally safe and respectful care and services to the Aboriginal community.
• Leadership skills to lead and inspire a team, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Networking skills to build and maintain relationships with various stakeholders, including local health services, law enforcement agencies, and Aboriginal organisations.
• Outreach skills to conduct assertive outreach within the community, demonstrating sensitivity and respect for cultural norms and practices.
• Computer literacy skills including Microsoft Office suite

Mandatory Requirements

• Current Victorian driver’s licence
• National Police Certificate (not older than 3 months)
• Victorian Employment Working with Children Check

What We Offer

• Full Time role
• SCHADS Crisis Accommodation Level 3
• NFP Salary Packaging Benefits up to $15,900
• An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• A supportive and culturally inclusive work environment.
• Ongoing professional development and training.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey and promoting cultural safety, we would love to hear from you. Please provide the following:

• A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for this role
• A resume which outlines your educational and employment background

For further information, please contact recruitment@ngwala.org.au

*Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit pre-employment checks including a Police Check (no older than 3 months), Victorian Employment Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check.