Kids need your help
CHILD protection workers are being sought for the Barwon region to meet growing demand and fill roles that industry insiders say are challenging and rewarding.
Cameron Murnane, 27, who has worked in child protection since 2018, said the industry provided an opportunity to help people at difficult times in their lives.
“It’s my role to go out and meet with families for the first time, notify them of the concerns that have been raised for either them or their children and … assisting families to link with (intervention) services,” Mr Murnane said.
“When I hear about how intervention has changed lives for the better, I think it is really hard not to find benefit in that.
“We see big changes. We see children’s lives turn around.
“There are memories in this role that are so significant and so pleasant that you’ll remember them for the rest of your life.
“It’s a challenging job and challenges help us grow as people and professionals. It is a very rewarding job.”
Child protection worker Ben Dunn, who has worked in the industry for almost three years, encouraged people to enter the industry.
“The reward from the job far outweighs any challenges or difficult days, and you get to keep children safe and see families change for the better,” Mr Dunn said.
“There are small, beautiful moments all the time and the kids just make you smile – like when you see how far they’ve come in situations due to those supports we’ve put in place.”
A state government spokesman said $171m had been set aside in the 2021-22 budget to increase the child protection workforce
“There’s a variety of roles in child protection, whether in investigation, intake, assessment or case management – all supporting children and families when they need it most,” the spokesman said.
“We are investing heavily in transforming Victoria’s children and families system to ensure all Victorian children and families receive the support they need.”
The state government is running a recruitment drive and aims to employ 280 child protection workers.