Assists individuals, families and groups with social, emotional or financial difficulties to improve quality of life, by educating and supporting them and working towards change in their social environment.

• Provides support while exploring alternatives with clients who experience difficulties such as marital problems, unemployment, illness and drug abuse; assesses risks and provides intensive short-term crisis counselling for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, disasters and other crises; assists to establish and administer neighbourhood houses, community groups, employment training programmes and other services.

• Typically works indoors in office situations as part of government bodies, local councils, schools or community agencies but may visit homes and community locations.
• Usually works in adequately heated and ventilated offices, but conditions at off-site locations can vary.

• Sedentary physical demand levels.
• Frequently sits when carrying out interviews, meeting with fellow professionals or when completing reports.
• Stands and walks when working in the field.
• Stretching up and reaching across is not a significant feature of the job.
• Bending squatting, crouching and kneeling is not a significant component of the job.
• Twisting of the body or neck is not a significant feature of the job.
• Contact with skin irritants or water is not a significant feature of the job.
• Lifting, carrying and holding is not a significant feature of the job.
• Repetitive movements are likely when using a computer or keeping written notes.
• Driving is likely to be required.
• Use of hand-held objects and equipment will include computers, diaries and other record-keeping and office equipment.
• Mental activities necessary include assessment, computing, communication, decision-making, report writing, knowledge of relevant social legislation and good communication skills with cultural sensitivity/knowledge.

• A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

• There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.
• May work with people in very distressing personal situations.