The Catholic Diocese of Lismore is one of the largest employers in the North Coast of NSW. Our office supports the diverse activities of the Diocese which includes schools, health, aged care, early learning, outside hours school care, parishes, hospitality venues and many other welfare and community services.

We are seeking to appoint a Safeguarding Officer to join our team of safeguarding specialists. The Safeguarding Team’s purpose is to develop and enhance a child and vulnerable person safe culture within the Diocese.

About the Role

The Safeguarding Officer will have a primary focus on investigation of abuse claims, and the research and collation of information for child-related claims under the National Redress Scheme and civil pathways. The role also includes contribution to data and records management, policy and training.

The Safeguarding Officer reports to the Safeguarding Manager. This full-time, permanent role will be located in our Lismore office and will have occasional travel requirements.

Our Culture

The Catholic Church is committed to safeguarding practices, including the safety of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and an accessible process to advise of concerns or make disclosures of harm.

Our staff work in an inclusive and diverse team and we value strong relationships. We operate in a high trust environment which will suit someone who is professional and self-driven to achieve our goals and great outcomes for those we serve.

Position Responsibilities

• Research, gather evidence, prepare documentation and assist with responses to child or vulnerable persons abuse claims made under the National Redress Scheme or civil pathways.
• Investigate and respond to any child protection concerns or allegations.
• Engage with stakeholders across the Diocese entities, legal representatives, insurers and Government agencies.
• Provide sound and current advice to the Diocese schools, early childhood centres, out of school hours care (OSHC), clergy and parishes on relevant legislation, regulations, standards, policy and procedures.
• Support the development and delivery of safeguarding educational programs.
• Ensure records and maintained to high standards, including clear and comprehensive notes, record management and completion of general administrative components of the role.

Selection Criteria

• We are looking for experienced safeguarding specialists with sound knowledge of Australian safeguarding legislation and can demonstrate the ability to independently manage investigations.
• Applicants should hold a tertiary qualification relevant to the position, such as education, law, policing or social work.
• You will have high levels of personal resilience and self-awareness. Participation in wellness activities and ongoing development is a requirement of the role.
• You will demonstrate strong communication skills, including effective engagement with stakeholders and experience preparing reports.
• Applicants should be able to demonstrate values that align with the Catholic Church, including protection and support for the vulnerable, poor or disadvantaged and to uphold the dignity and rights of all children and young people.
• A valid Australian Driver’s License, NSW Working with Children Check clearance, National Criminal History Check and NDIS Worker Screening Check clearance, or ability to obtain prior to commencement, is essential.

If you would like more information on the role, please email us at [email protected].

We are considering applications as they are received. If this role sounds like a great fit, we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.