Domestic Violence Support Services

DVSS aims to provide a holistic response to women with and without accompanying children who are experiencing domestic and family violence and related homelessness, emphasising the principles of empowerment, self-determination and an acknowledgement of the dynamics of domestic violence in a political and social context.  We do this through the provision of direct support, safe accommodation and housing options and programs that aim to create a non-violent community where women and children, regardless of their social and cultural background, age and sexual orientation, will have access to the knowledge and supports needed to take control over their own lives. 

About the Role

Reporting to the Director of Prevention of Violence and DV responses, this position through case management and assertive outreach for our clients, will provide a range of services that will include:

• Risk assessment and safety planning
• Advocacy for safety and housing
• Information and referral and support to access services
• Practical assistance and emotional support.

Based on feminist principles, working from a strength based, child-centred, family focused, gender and trauma-informed practice framework:

• Conduct comprehensive risk assessment and safety planning with women and children to end or reduce the risk of future violence.
• Provide short term systemic advocacy, information and planned support to access legal assistance, accommodation opportunities and other services that promote safety
• Provide centre based and outreach strategies to women, children and family members affected by domestic and family violence.
• Work through a team-based approach to identify supports and access to services to meet the needs and aspirations of people accessing services.

Use the tools and processes developed by the team for planned support and coordination with other agencies like   Onelink, HACT, CYPS, Legal Aid/Women Legal Centre, ACT Police, DVCS and women refuges.

 The right person will have

• 2-3 years of experience of case management and working with women and children, preferably in ACT/NSW.
• Understanding or experience of working in family and domestic violence
• Knowledge and experience in the following fields:
• Strengths-based case management.
• Gender and trauma informed support.
• Current theory and practice relating to domestic and family violence. 
• Advocacy and outreach support.

Qualifications 

A minimum Diploma in Community Services, or tertiary qualifications in a relevant field such as social work, psychology or human services

About YWCA Canberra:

YWCA Canberra is a respected feminist, not-for-profit community organisation that has been providing community services and representing women’s issues in the Canberra community since its establishment in 1929. Today, we provide leading and innovative services to women and the broader Canberra community in the areas of children’s services, community services, housing, youth services, personal and professional training, and women’s leadership.

As a values-based organisation, and the only Canberra based Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (WGEA), YWCA Canberra is a great place to work. We have a strong track record in building long-term, sustainable careers with excellent conditions (including charitable salary sacrificing and above award salaries) together with a supportive work environment for all employees to thrive.

What’s in it for you?

Working at YWCA Canberra offers more than just a pay cheque. Here, you’ll find a job with real purpose, where your efforts directly contribute to improving lives in our community. Whether you’re involved in early childhood education, housing support, or any of our other programmes, you’ll see the tangible results of your work.

YWCA Canberra offers:

• Competitive base salary  
• Flexible working options to support work-life balance including a 9-day fortnight, 4 day compressed work week and varied working hours to accommodate work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development and further study through our in-house registered training organisation.
• Salary packaging options that can improve your take-home pay by $5K annually
• Generous parental leave entitlements, 3 days extra paid annual leave between Christmas and New Year, annual flu vaccinations.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program for guidance and counselling

Join Canberra’s ONLY Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (WGEA).

How to apply

Visit https://ywca-canberra.org.au/about-us/careers/ to access the position description and job demands checklist. 

Please submit your application including a CV and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria together through the YWCA Canberra e-recruitment web portal by visiting https://candidate.aurion.cloud/ywca/production/signin

Applications will be accepted until Friday 19 June 2026

Want more information?

For a confidential discussion or further information please contact our Director – Prevention of Violence and DV responses – Dr. Tulika Saxena via email at tul••••••••••@ywca-canberra.org.au

For support with the application process please contact Rec••••••••@ywca-canberra.org.au

Make a difference with us.

At YWCA Canberra, we’ve been championing change since 1929, empowering women and promoting gender equality for nearly a century. Our legacy isn’t built on words alone—it’s rooted in real action. Every day, we transform lives through our community services, affordable housing programs, early childhood education, and leadership initiatives. Whether it’s providing a safe home through YHomes, supporting survivors of domestic violence, or nurturing the next generation of leaders, we walk the talk. Our impact is tangible, and our commitment to building an inclusive, equitable future remains stronger than ever.

YWCA Canberra reserves the right to close this role early if a suitable candidate is found prior to the closing date.

YWCA Canberra is committed to the safety of children and young people. As such, successful applicants will be required to participate fully in all child protection risk management recruitment processes and ongoing character checking and assessment processes.

YWCA Canberra is an equal opportunity employer. People from diverse backgrounds and with diverse life experiences are encouraged to apply. We specifically encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.