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ABOUT US
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.
Position Title: Community Development Specialist
Classification: SCHADS Crisis Level 4
Location: Social Mission – Homelessness, Toowoomba QLD
Status: Full Time/ Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm
Why this role matters
The Salvation Army (Salvos) is one of the largest providers of homelessness services across the country. Our philosophy is that every person should be afforded dignity and respect and that no one should be without a safe, affordable, and secure home. We provide services and supports to adults, and families with accompanying children in the form of accommodation, case management, assertive outreach, financial assistance, community connection and referral services.
About the Role
This role is to provide Community Development specialist support and facilitation to help individuals, families and the community to bring about social change and improve the quality of life in the Toowoomba and Southwest Region.
It is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating impactful community development initiatives that promote social inclusion, strengthen community connections, and contribute to ending homelessness.
The successful candidate will operate with a high level of independence, providing expert advice, strategic leadership, and capacity-building support to the Queensland Homelessness Leadership Team, service teams, and broader community sector.
The position also involves the development of operational frameworks and templates that influence both organisational practice and community outcomes.
How You Will Make an Impact
Utilising development practice and deep listening, facilitate spaces and opportunities for individuals to form collective groups through meaningful engagement and activities working towards knowledge and relationship building and creating shared goals.
Arrange all necessary equipment for activities and work closely with community members to ensure that activities are valued and relevant.
Create opportunities for advocacy for community members (including program participants) and support self-advocacy work with participants to build resilience and develop capacity
Through relationship building, assist individuals to access support services and establish community supports, and where needed provide advocacy for the person with service provider
Create opportunities for connection between community members (including program participants), leading to improved social inclusion and opportunities for engagement in community.
Develop and deliver training and workforce development activities for internal staff, including Community Development training and Most Significant Change methodology.
Provide expert consultancy and strategic advice to leadership teams on embedding community inclusion strategies.
Actively participate in sector networks, including Communities of Practice and local community group meetings.
Lead and support working groups focused on planning and executing community initiatives.
Analyse qualitative and quantitative data, community narratives, and group feedback to assess and enhance development efforts.
Contribute to organisational leadership across areas such as tender submissions, staff development, and training strategies.
Create and implement operational tools and templates that enhance community development practices.
What You Bring
Demonstrated experience in the social services sector, with a strong background in community development and group facilitation.
A relevant tertiary qualification (bachelor’s degree, postgraduate, or associate diploma) and significant industry experience.
In-depth understanding of key frameworks, theories, and practices within the community development discipline.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and lead in collaborative settings.
Proven ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and deliver outcomes in a dynamic environment.
Mandatory Requirements
Current QLD Working with Children.
A current and valid Driver’s Licence.
What we offer
The Salvos offer eligible employee's a well-balanced package of meaningful benefits including:
Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefit.
Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities.
Flexible (add remote / hybrid / onsite / WFH if applicable) working arrangements.
Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport
Ongoing training and development opportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency.
Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts.
How to apply
If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to join a team dedicated to creating positive change, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your alignment with the requirements of the role. Together we can build a brighter future.
Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured.
The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.
We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration