Support Worker (Lived Experience)

About us

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and other men impacted by the justice system?

The Salvation Army is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Support Worker (Lived Experience) to join our Brothers Healing team. This unique and rewarding role is ideal for a man with personal experience of the justice system, homelessness, or recovery from alcohol and other drugs (AOD), who wants to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other men on their healing journey.

About the Role

As a Support Worker (Lived Experience), you will use your own story of resilience and recovery to build genuine connections with men exiting custody, AOD rehab, or those at risk of homelessness. You will play a vital role in helping men stabilise their housing, connect to community supports, and work towards a stronger, more positive future. You will be working as part of a team aligned with The Salvation Army’s Trauma-Informed Care, No Wrong Door Policy, and Mission and Values.

This is a Casual position based in Cessnock, NSW. Salary is in accordance with SCHADS Crisis Level 1.

How you will make an impact

• Build trust and meaningful relationships with men using lived experience
• Support the implementation of case plans and coordinate access to services
• Share insights to enhance client engagement and service strategies
• Offer empathy, hope and practical support through shared experience
• Help men access housing, services, and build connections in the community
• Co-facilitate wellbeing and inclusion activities
• Contribute to the safety and improvement of services
• Work collaboratively with case managers and the wider support team
• Maintain accurate client records and contribute to a safe, inclusive service environment
• Collaborate with the team to strengthen service delivery and community impact

What you will bring

• Lived experience relevant to the client group (justice system, homelessness, AOD recovery)
• Certificate III in Community Services or willingness to work toward it
• Strong communication, teamwork and self-reflection skills
• Ability to work in alignment with trauma-informed and culturally safe practices
• Understanding of The Salvation Army’s Model of Care and Trauma-Informed Care principles

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. 

• Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives  

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports such as: Burra Burra Network (pastoral care network), Cultural Events, Sorry Business and Ceremonial Leave (up to 10 days) 

• 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. 

How to Apply: If you are ready to turn your experience into purpose and walk alongside other men on their healing journey, we would love to hear from you.

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