At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families in crisis through risk assessments and tailored safety planning.
- Company: Join the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, a leader in family support.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous superannuation, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Access ongoing training, professional development, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in social science and three years' experience with families required.
The predicted salary is between 111701 - 111701 $ per year.
Salary: $99,734 to $111,701 per annum plus 15.4% superannuation
Location: Brisbane, QLD
Jurisdiction: Federal Circuit Court and Family Court of Australia
Classification: Australian Public Service Level 6 (APS 6)
Job Type: Non-ongoing, Full-time
What is a Triage Counsellor?
Triage Counsellors are qualified social science professionals, who have clinical experience working with children and families, including in child protection, family support, family and domestic violence. They assist parties in family law matters by conducting confidential risk assessments to identify appropriate support services, safety planning, and case management. This help is targeted towards families who are at high risk as a result of family violence, mental health issues, drug and alcohol misuse, and child abuse and neglect.
Triage Counsellors have a statutory appointment to the role of 'family counsellor' (Section 281(1) of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Act 2021), to provide family counselling as defined under Section 10 of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) (FLA).
Why become a Triage Counsellor?
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) and be part of world-leading initiatives designed to ensure safe and effective outcomes for children and families. The role offers the rewarding opportunity to be part of Lighthouse, which is an innovative approach taken by the FCFCOA to screen for risk, with a primary focus on improving outcomes for families. New Triage Counsellors are provided with a supportive and structured induction program, ongoing professional development, access to an extensive literature library, and regular professional supervision.
What does a Triage Counsellor do?
- Review responses to the Court's Risk Screening Tool (Family DOORS Triage)
- Conduct reviews of filed material to further inform risk screening and risk assessment
- Conduct video interviews with identified parties to further formulate risk assessment and analysis, including identifying protective and supportive factors
- Co-design and develop safety and well-being plans with individuals, and where appropriate and necessary, undertake direct referrals to identified agencies and services
Other great reasons to become a Triage Counsellor:
- A 15.4% employer superannuation contribution rate
- Salary packaging options
- Paid leave days between Christmas and New Year, and three days after New Year, in addition to the standard annual leave entitlement (4 weeks for full time)
- Up to eighteen weeks of paid parental leave
- Access to Cultural and First Nations ceremonial and NAIDOC leave
- Access to study leave and other study assistance
- Flexible work arrangements, including opportunities for hybrid office/home-based and part-time work
- Great working facilities
- Safe and secure working environment on court premises
- Access to a raft of project and higher duties opportunities
- Training by Australian and international experts
- Strong team cultures and regular team building activities
Mandatory qualifications and experience:
- A recognised degree in a relevant social science area (e.g. social work, psychology, counselling, human services)
- A minimum of three (3) years relevant clinical experience working with children and families, such as in child protection, family support, family and domestic violence
- A clearance for working with children as required within the relevant State/Territory scheme
Contact Officer:
For more information, confidential enquiries can be made by emailing Erylin Rees, Director Court Children's Service.
Eligibility:
Employment with the Court is subject to the conditions prescribed in the Public Service Act 1999, and the following:
- Australian citizenship – the successful applicant must hold Australian citizenship.
- Security and character clearance – the successful applicant must satisfy a Police Records Check and may also be required to complete security clearances during the course of their employment.
- Successful applicants engaged into the APS will be subject to a probation period.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Federal Court Australia is committed to supporting an inclusive and diverse workforce and welcomes and encourages applications from People with Disability, First Nations peoples, LGBTIQA+ people, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds, mature age workers, as well as young workers.
Applications close: Sunday 30 August 2026 at 11:30 pm (AEST)
GAZ - APS 6 - QLD - Triage Counsellor (social worker or psychologist or counsellor) - FCFCO Div 1 & 2 employer: Federal Court of Australia
Working as an Associate to a Judge at the Federal Court of Australia in Brisbane offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the judicial process while being part of a supportive and inclusive work culture. The Court values diversity and provides ample growth opportunities, ensuring that employees can develop their skills in a meaningful environment. With competitive remuneration and a commitment to ethical practices, this role is ideal for those seeking a rewarding career in the public service sector.
Contact Details:
Federal Court of Australia Recruitment Team
