Skip to Main Content

Job Title


Counsellor - Engaging Families


Company : Windermere Academy


Location : Narre Warren, Australia


Created : 2026-02-05


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Introduction Want to know why it''s an exciting time to join Windermere? Firstly, there is no other organisation quite like us. Why do you ask? We are an independent community service organisation working across the South East of Victoria to help those who need it most. Our unique range of services include; Family Health & Wellbeing, Childhood Development, Education & Support, Early Intervention Therapy Services, NDIS Support Coordination and Plan Management, Homelessness Support, Counselling Services, assistance to support victims of trauma, assault and violent crimes and Recovery Support Services. Why work at Windermere? We are committed to outcome-focused care for children, families and individuals and to making a positive difference in the community. As well as tailored support services for individuals and families, Windermere provides a varied scope of services to support disadvantaged and vulnerable people. Windermere offers a culture of flexibility, support and wellbeing. Staff Benefits - this is where we stand out from the crowd Windermere offers staff a wide range of unique benefits beyond the salary.Flexible Ways of Working - home, in the office or combination of bothAbove Award Personal Leave and 17.5% annual leave loadingGifted days off (between Christmas and New Year)Employee Referral Program - $500 per referralFlexible Leave Scheme (50/52, 51/52)Generous salary packaging (up to $15,900 per year + additional $2,650 meals and entertainment)Structured performance and 1-on-1 development check-ins and secondment opportunitiesStaff discount program for everyday itemsOpportunities for professional developmentWindermere care about staff and strive for continuous improvement, which is why we regularly ask our staff and consumers about what we can do better. In our latest staff survey 95% of respondents said they are "happy to tell their family and friends they work at Windermere" and 95% agree "staff are welcome regardless of age, cultural background, race, religion, disability, gender identity or sexual orientation". Description Now, let''s talk about this exciting opportunityOur counsellors are dedicated to supporting and providing holistic support to families who have experienced family violence. Are you also driven by the prospect of delivering positive outcomes for these families?Windermere has partnered with Taskforce to support and safeguard families who have experienced family violence, as well as mental health, and drug and alcohol related concerns through the innovativeEngaging Families Program.Engaging Families is aCommunities for Childrenprogram with Anglicare being the Facilitating Partner. Taskforce and Windermere staff co-work with each consumer in this unique, holistic and supportive program.If you are an experienced Counsellor looking to join a community of talented employees who are committed to providing integrated support to children and families, then this part-time (0.5, 2.5-days per week) role may appeal to you.Part Time Contract until January 2027 andMonday: 9am - 5.06pmTuesday: 9am - 5.06pmWednesday: 9am pm Our ideal candidate is:Passionate about making a difference in the lives of families;Flexible in approach, innovative in thinking and strengths based in practice;Tertiary qualified in Psychology, Social Work, Family Therapy, or Counselling;Knowledgeable in trauma and therapeutic experience in counselling; andExperienced in risk assessment, safety planning and crisis management.Although this role is based in our Pakenham office, you will have the opportunity to work flexibly and creatively in your provision of office-based or outreach counselling and parenting support to consumers within the Cardinia Shire area. Do not miss this opportunity to improve lives in a values-based, progressive community organisation with heart, courage and conviction.Skills And Experiences Key Selection Criteria:Tertiary qualifications in Psychology, Social Work, Family Therapy, or Counselling;Demonstrated understanding of the impact of trauma and trauma informed practice. Passionate about making a difference in the lives of families. Demonstrated experience working with children and understanding of child safe standards. Flexible in approach, innovative in thinking and strengths based in practiceDemonstrated understanding of the impact of Family Violence, mental health and Alcohol and Other DrugsExperienced in risk assessment, safety planning and crisis management aligning with the MARAMIS framework. Ability to work collaboratively with community partners. Highly developed written and verbal communication skills. Able to maintain consumer files and databases.Ability to prepare written reports.Planning and organising excellent time management and organizational skills. Ability to work under pressure.Willingness to promote and support practices that are inclusive, culturally responsive, safe and accessible.Current Victorian Drivers'' LicenceWillingness to undertake relevant pre-employment screening and checks - including Police Check, Pre-Employment Medical and Working with Children''s checkRight to Work in Australia e.g. Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or Visa holder with full working rightsIf this job excites you, then click the "Apply" button now because we want you Please click here to view the detailed Position Description and please make sure to address Key Selection Criteria in your cover letter.If you require any specific access adjustments or support within the Windermere recruitment, interview or onboarding process please contact our Talent Acquisition Specialist via phone or email Windermere is committed to equity & equality for consumers and employees, this by building diverse and inclusive services and work environments, where all peoples from Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander, CALD, LGBTIQ+ Communities and those living with disability will know and feel accepted, affirmed, safe and celebrated. Windermere is delivering this through the continued development and implementation of our Welcoming and Inclusion Strategy as we seek to provide a diverse workforce at all levels.Please note we will be reviewing applications as they are received, therefore this role may close sooner if we find the right candidate. Please apply now to ensure you do not miss out