Career - Youth Worker

Youth Workers will interview young people to identify problems and act as advocates (representatives) for them, raising these issues with relevant government authorities and will advocate for young people who have a grievance with government departments or other organisations. They will assist with developing policies relating to young people and provide support and advice to young people experiencing difficulties, such as family problems, unemployment, illness, drug abuse and homelessness. They will arrange and provide counselling, food, shelter or clothing and assess risks and provide intensive short-term crisis counselling for victims of domestic violence or child abuse. They will also arrange for the referral of clients to appropriate specialists or community agencies and provide information about community services and resources available for young people. They will plan, conduct and evaluate programs for young people in areas such as employment and training, education, self-development, accommodation, welfare and counselling and will also plan and organise activities such as sports, handicrafts, dancing, drama, hiking, bushwalking and holiday camps. They need to establish and supervise youth clubs and small neighbourhood support groups in the local community. They will write reports and submissions requesting funding for continuing programs and new projects and work closely with teachers, social and welfare workers, local authorities, health professionals, refuge workers, parents and, in some instances, the police.

Avg Salary