At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in custody, helping them develop life skills and positive behaviours.
- Company: NSW Department of Communities and Justice - making a real difference in regional NSW.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, structured training, career pathways, and health support.
- Other info: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on young lives while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, resilience, teamwork, and cultural awareness.
The predicted salary is between 36.2 - 36.2 $ per hour.
NSW Department of Communities and Justice – Wagga Wagga NSW
Employment type: Casual and unlock opportunities for temporary and ongoing roles
Salary: $36.20 per hour + loading (casual). Temporary and Ongoing - $71,777 - $80,129 + super + allowances
This role involves shift work across a 24/7 roster, including weekends and public holidays.
Training: Mandatory 5 weeks of full-time Induction Training & Assessment Program (ITAP)
Working in regional Youth Justice Centres offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference while enjoying the benefits of regional living. At the same time, regional Youth Justice roles offer deep impact and strong community purpose. Staff often build meaningful relationships with the community and see firsthand the positive changes young people make. If you're looking for a rewarding career where you can make an impact while enjoying a more balanced lifestyle, regional Youth Justice could be the right opportunity for you.
Your role
As a Youth Officer, you will support young people in custody to develop life skills, build positive behaviours and prepare for their return to the community. You will supervise young people while encouraging participation in education programs and daily activities designed to reduce reoffending in a secure Youth Justice Centre. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team supporting young people while maintaining a safe and structured environment. You’ll receive five weeks of paid, full-time training to ensure you feel confident and prepared before starting in the Centre.
What you'll do
- Supervise and support young people with their daily routines and wellbeing
- Encourage participation in education, vocational, recreational and therapeutic programs
- Practice positive role modelling to support behaviour change
- Respond appropriately to challenging situations
- Maintain a safe and secure environment
- Work collaboratively with psychologists and caseworkers
- Complete operational and case management records
- Support young people attending court, medical or casework appointments
What we're looking for
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills: You can connect with people from diverse backgrounds and support young people to engage in programs and activities.
- Resilience and sound judgement: You remain calm in challenging situations and manage behaviour professionally.
- Teamwork and accountability: You work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain a safe environment.
- Cultural awareness and community understanding: You demonstrate respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and understand the social and cultural complexities affecting young people and their communities.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.
Requirements
- Minimum NSW P2 Driver Licence
- Current First Aid certificate (HLTAID011) or willingness to obtain
- Working With Children Check clearance
- Ability to pass medical, fitness, and criminal history checks
- Availability to complete 5 weeks of full-time training (ITAP)
What We Offer
- Paid, structured training to set you up for success
- Clear career pathways within Youth Justice and the broader DCJ network
- Competitive salary with shift penalties and allowances
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Health, wellbeing, and Employee Assistance Programs
- A meaningful role where you can make a real difference every day
Applications close- 13 November 2026 at 11:00pm AEST.
For more information about the role, application process, or recruitment adjustments, please contact Merina Maharjan on 0473 430 *** or *******@dcj.nsw.gov.au.
Inclusion and Diversity lies at the heart of how we recruit. We continue to hire great people with a wide variety of skills, experience and backgrounds. This includes people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people identifying as LGBTIQ+, culturally and linguistically diverse people, carers and other diversity groups.
Other Information: A talent pool may be created for future ongoing and temporary roles and is valid for a period of up to 18 months.
Youth Officer – Wagga Wagga employer: NSW Department of Communities and Justice
The NSW Department of Communities and Justice is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Parramatta that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities while contributing to meaningful projects that enhance community services. The hybrid work model promotes a healthy work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in multilingual services.
Contact Details:
NSW Department of Communities and Justice Recruitment Team
