Aged Care Navigator - Care Finder Program in Cairns

Council on the Ageing Queensland is a for-purpose registered charity committed to advancing the rights, interests, needs and futures of people as we age. Our vision is that ageing in Queensland is a time of possibility, opportunity, and influence. For more than 60 years, we have been engaging with older Queenslanders and organisations which service their needs, providing information and education to enable well-informed decisions about ageing well. We amplify the voices of Queenslanders to develop and implement policies and programs that improve the lives of people as we age.

As an Aged Care Navigator, you will be assisting the most vulnerable older people in the Cairns community in need of intensive assistance to access aged care and other supports. Our Aged Care Navigators help to identify, understand and access services on our client's behalf, connecting them to community supports according to their needs as part of the Care Finder program. This is a part-time permanent position (0.6 FTE - 3 Days, 22.5 hours per week).

Key responsibilities include:

• Building and maintaining strong relationships with older people, community organisations, health professionals and key stakeholders.
• Conducting outreach and engagement activities with Care Finder priority populations including older people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and older people living with disability.
• Providing ongoing support based upon a person's individual needs, circumstances and capacities as they age while respecting optimal client choice and control in decision-making.
• Maintaining accurate and confidential case notes and records.
• Working collaboratively with service providers and stakeholders to ensure delivery is coordinated and integrated.
• Attending, participating and representing the Aged Care Navigator program in regular seniors and carers expos, community events and stakeholder meetings.
• Participating in professional development and quality improvement activities to support continuous improvement.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of the aged care, health, disability, or related human services sector, particularly those on offer in the Cairns region.
• A tertiary qualification in community services, health or human services or related discipline or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated skills and experience in engaging with cultural sensitivity, empathy, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Experience supporting individuals experiencing vulnerability, disadvantage or barriers to accessing services.
• Strong organisational skills including the ability to manage competing priorities and meet reporting requirements.
• Demonstrated skills in case management and data management systems.
• Well-developed verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience in working as a member of a team in the context of an online environment.
• Ability to work from home or an alternative flexible location.
• Knowledge of the aged care system and the current aged care reforms.
• Experience in and/or knowledge of working with older people from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience working in the community.

We value and appreciate the diversity of our clients and staff and support an inclusive and equitable workplace, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds and valuing a range of skills and experiences.

The successful applicant will require:

• A current first aid and CPR certificate.
• Use of private vehicle, licence and comprehensive insurance.

This position and applicable allowances are paid in accordance with the SCHADS award, Level 5. Council on the Ageing Queensland is a public benevolent institution which enables successful candidates to salary package for tax benefits.

For further information on the position, please contact Kate Kleemann on *************@cotaqld.org.au using the subject line: Aged Care Navigator - Care Finder - Cairns enquiry.