Initial Assessment & Planning Worker

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.

Make a Real Difference Every Day!

Are you passionate about creating a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families experiencing homelessness? Do you have a heart for social justice, compassion, and collaboration? If so, The Salvation Army invites you to bring your dedication and expertise to our Initial Assessment and Planning (IAP) team.
 

We are seeking a committed and empathetic IAP Worker to join our Homelessness – Social Mission Department. This is an opportunity to work on the frontline of crisis support, helping vulnerable people regain safety, dignity, and stability in their lives.
 

About the Role

You will play a critical role in delivering rapid, compassionate, and high-quality crisis intervention services to individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. You will conduct assessments, develop action plans, provide housing referrals, and connect clients to a wide network of community supports—all with the goal of securing safe, affordable accommodation and preventing re-entry into the homelessness system.
 

You’ll be part of a caring, values-driven organisation that’s committed to social justice, inclusion, and long-lasting positive change.

Reporting to the Team Leader, this is a permanent, part-time position, 22.8 hours per week, based in Frankston, VIC.
 

Compensation is in accordance with SCHADS Award Level 5. 
 

You will successfully

• Conduct thorough assessments and develop tailored support or safety plans in response to immediate needs and risks.
• Deliver person-centred services in line with TSA’s National Homelessness Model of Care
• Link clients with essential community services and long-term support systems
• Maintain accurate case notes, reports and documentation in accordance with funding and compliance requirements
• Work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders to deliver integrated care
• Advocate for vulnerable individuals with empathy and professionalism

You will have

• A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g. Social Work, Psychology, Occupational Therapy). Candidates with Diploma qualifications and significant experience will be considered
• Recent experience in Initial Assessment and Planning or a related role within the community services sector
• Demonstrated understanding of homelessness, trauma-informed practice, and complex client needs (e.g. mental health, substance use, family violence)
• Excellent communication, crisis management, and relationship-building skills
• A deep alignment with The Salvation Army’s values of Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration
• A current and valid Employee Working with Children's Check
• A current 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
• 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

About us 

The Salvation Army (Salvos) 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, the Salvos are always there providing support, safety, community, and opportunity

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re ready to be the difference in someone’s life—to bring hope where it’s needed most—then we want to hear from you.

Apply now and help us continue our mission of transforming lives, restoring dignity, and providing lasting solutions for those experiencing homelessness.
 

Together, let’s create a future where everyone has a safe place to call home.

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value and include people of all cultures, languages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and intersex status. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal 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.