Advanced Specialist DFV Advocate

Advanced Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Advocate – Level 5

Join a groundbreaking new initiative in Townsville. Thanks to new funding and partnership opportunities, DVNQ is expanding its specialist response services and seeking an experienced Advanced Specialist DFV Advocate to become part of the Townsville DFV Networked Hub.

Embedded within The Women’s Centre, this role offers a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of domestic, family and sexual violence service delivery, driving collaboration, innovation and meaningful change for victim-survivors across the region.

• Advocate for and support victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.
• Level 5 under the SCHADS Award, plus generous benefits.
• Be part of a supportive, collaborative team that values your professional development.
• Contribute to meaningful work focused on eliminating domestic and family violence.
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

About DVNQ

DVNQ is committed to delivering culturally appropriate, respectful, and holistic support to individuals impacted by domestic and family violence (DFV). Established in 1994, DVNQ operates in North Queensland, with a mission to eliminate DFV through advocacy, innovation, and collaboration.

Our values—Integrity, Compassion, Advocacy, Innovation, and Collaboration—are at the heart of how we work with clients, colleagues, and the community. We pride ourselves on a supportive, inclusive culture where leadership is positive and every team member contributes to our shared success. Learn more about us at: www.DVNQ.com.au

About the Opportunity

Due to the continued growth of our services and the award of new partnership contracts, DVNQ is excited to offer a unique opportunity for an Advanced Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Advocate (Level 5) to join our team in Townsville.

This position places you at the forefront of an innovative and collaborative approach to supporting victim-survivors of domestic and family violence. As part of the expanding Townsville Domestic and Family Violence Networked Hub, you will work as a specialist DFV practitioner embedded within The Women’s Centre, strengthening the connection between domestic, family and sexual violence services and improving outcomes for women experiencing complex forms of violence.

This is more than a frontline advocacy role. It is an opportunity to be part of a pioneering integrated service model that brings together specialist expertise across the domestic and family violence and sexual violence sectors. Working alongside experienced professionals from multiple agencies, you will contribute to a coordinated, trauma-informed response that places victim-survivors at the centre of service delivery.

As an Advanced Specialist DFV Advocate, you will provide expert risk assessment, safety planning, crisis intervention, case management and system advocacy while building strong partnerships across the Townsville service network. You will also contribute specialist DFV knowledge to multidisciplinary responses, helping to shape best practice and strengthen pathways for women accessing support.

Reporting to the Team Leader, you will play a key leadership role by mentoring practitioners, supporting service development, and championing innovative, survivor-centred approaches to responding to violence.

If you are passionate about collaboration, systems reform, and creating safer futures for women and children, this is an exciting opportunity to join a growing initiative that is helping redefine integrated responses to domestic, family and sexual violence in North Queensland.

Multiple Fixed-Term Full-Time positions available with contracts through until 30/06/2028.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide trauma-informed crisis response, including risk and needs assessments and safety planning.
• Deliver services grounded in a feminist understanding of the gendered nature of DFV.
• Coordinate emergency accommodation and home safety upgrades.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to ensure comprehensive, holistic client support.
• Assist clients in navigating court processes and obtaining protection orders.
• Participate in community education, awareness campaigns, and advocacy initiatives.
• Mentor and supervise Level 4 DFV Advocates to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Lead trauma-informed practice development and court program coordination.
• Engaging with partner agencies, including working within police stations, to support victim-survivors and improve system integration.

For a copy of the full position description, please email recruitment@dvnq.org.au

Selection Criteria

To be considered, you will need to meet the following criteria:

Qualifications and Experience

• Tertiary qualification in a relevant human services field and/or a minimum of three years’ experience in the human services sector.

Skills and Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of DFV legislation, best practices, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Strong decision-making and case management skills.
• Proven ability to communicate complex and sensitive information effectively.
• Demonstrated cultural knowledge and ability to work respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples and provide culturally appropriate advice.
• Strong understanding of family structures, cultural protocols, and community connections.
• High level of digital literacy and experience with client record-keeping systems.
• Experience mentoring and supervising DFV practitioners.
• Advanced decision-making and practice leadership, including working within embedded service models.
• Ability to coordinate legal clinics and court work and engage with agencies like Queensland Police and Queensland Health.

Mandatory Requirements

• Current QLD C Class Driver’s Licence.
• Current Working with Children Check (Blue Card).
• Australia: National Police Check Clearance – at organisation’s expense.

We are looking for someone who is compassionate, collaborative, and committed to social justice. Your communication skills will allow you to build trust with clients and partner organisations while providing essential support to those in crisis.

About the Benefits

This is a Level 5 position under the SCHADS Award, with an hourly rate of $53.43-$55.85, plus:

• Enjoy 4 weeks of annual leave with an additional 17.5% leave loading. Plus, receive an extra 3 days of leave during the Christmas period, allowing you more time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
• Access salary packaging options up to $15,900 per annum, significantly increasing your take-home pay by reducing your taxable income.
• Benefit from a structured induction process, regular in-house training, and ongoing professional development opportunities. We also provide internal and external professional supervision, ensuring you receive the guidance and support needed to thrive in your role.
• Enjoy a Monday to Friday work pattern with flexible hours, helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Participate in our dedicated team wellbeing days, designed to foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support, advice, and counselling services to help you manage personal or work-related challenges.
• A commitment to staff wellbeing is reflected in our supportive work environment.

At DVNQ, we are committed to fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace where your contributions are valued and your professional development is encouraged.

If you share our values and have the skills necessary to bring success to the role, we invite you to apply today!

DVNQ is committed to inclusivity and advocacy, ensuring equitable access and respect for all people, regardless of cultural background, age, gender, sexuality, or disability.

How to Apply

Please apply through the link in the advertisement that will direct you to our recruitment platform. There you will be required to submit:

• Cover letter addressing each Selection Criteria
• Current resume
• Two professional referees (one must be your current or most recent Line Manager)
• Proof of education, qualifications, and/or experience

Applications close: 5.00pm 31st August 2026

Please note: Applications that do not address the selection criteria or are received after the closing date will not be considered.