Carer Services Practitioner

Professional 1 - Remuneration Package Range $83,963 - $106,860

(including salary $78,668 - $90,331)

Professional 2 - Remuneration Package Range $109,860 - $130,643

(including salary $92,910 - $110,781)

Regional Services Top End and Arnhem

Darwin, Nhulunbuy

Two full time ongoing vacancies are available

Selection will be made at the P1 or P2 level depending on the experience of the successful applicant.

Are you passionate about supporting children and carers to achieve safe and stable outcomes? Join our team and make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.

The Department of Children and Families works in partnership with families, communities and key stakeholders to ensure children experience safe, healthy and supported childhoods. We are committed to strengthening communities and delivering high-quality child protection and out-of-home care services across the Northern Territory.

As a Carer Services Practitioner, you will play a critical role in the assessment, recruitment and support of foster and relative carers, contributing to quality placement outcomes for children in care. This role requires strong professional judgement, cultural competence and the ability to operate within a legislative framework.

Key responsibilities include:

1. Assessing, recruiting and supporting foster and kinship carers
2. Delivering quality placement services in line with policy and legislation
3. Undertaking statutory responsibilities under the Care and Protection of Children Act
4. Providing guidance, training and support to carers and staff
5. Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to achieve best outcomes for children
6. Ensuring compliance with legislative and departmental frameworks

To be successful, you will have:

1. Relevant tertiary qualifications (social work, psychology, community services or equivalent)
2. Strong assessment, analytical and decision-making skills
3. Demonstrated ability to work within legislative frameworks, particularly in child protection
4. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
5. Cultural competency, including knowledge of Aboriginal culture and the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle
6. Ability to manage competing priorities and work both independently and collaboratively

What we offer:

1. Meaningful and rewarding work that impacts children and families
2. Opportunities for professional development and career progression
3. Supportive team environment
4. Competitive salary and conditions
5. The opportunity to work across diverse communities in the Northern Territory

For further information about this vacancy please contact:

Recruitment Officer on 08 8922 7268 or

[email protected]

Quote vacancy number: 13282

Closing date: 16/06/2026

Applications should consist of a one page summary sheet, resume / CV and copies of relevant qualifications.

For a copy of the Job Description or to view career opportunities in the Northern Territory Government please visit https://jobs.nt.gov.au/Home/Search