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AnglicareSA is poised to commence recruitment for a new initiative that aims to transform the way intensive support is delivered to families in crisis.

The campaign will target highly skilled practitioners. The service will draw on international evidence such as the U.S. based HomeBuilders program, to provide responsive and effective supports for South Australian families at risk of entering the child protection system.

The Intensive Family Support Service was first announced by the State Government late last year, and is part of the Government’s broader redesign of the child abuse and neglect early intervention and prevention system. 

Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink urged people already working in the field who want to make a difference to consider applying for the new roles.


Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink

“There is no doubt working with vulnerable families in their own homes will be incredibly tough but rewarding work,” Minister Lensink said.

“The State Government wants to give parents the best possible chance to look after their children safely at home, which is why we committed $2.8 million to this pilot that will engage 46 families and about 138 children.

“We hope to see real change from this pilot program, with the ultimate aim of stemming the flow of children coming into the child protection system.”

AnglicareSA CEO Peter Sandeman said the service is a fundamental part of the reform triggered by the Nyland report and is expected to commence mid-year in Adelaide’s northern suburbs following the appointment of the first group of intensive family support specialists.


Royal Commissioner Margaret Nyland

“Ultimately, our goal is to enable more children to live safely at home with their families,” Mr Sandeman said.

“The number of children and young people entering out-of-home care continues to climb and we want to reverse this trend.

“We want to strengthen and empower families to enable them to keep their children safe at home – now and over the long term.”

“There is much to be done to turn around a system in crisis but this is a vital first step. We are absolutely committed to driving change and having a real impact on families and children at risk of removal.”

Peter Sandeman

AnglicareSA is keen to appoint responsive and innovative practitioners who are motivated to work with families to facilitate change in their natural environments.

Mr Sandeman said the recruitment drive aims to attract a diverse mix of experienced practitioners, including those with Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

Applicants will be qualified in Social Work or a relevant discipline, have an in depth understanding of the child protection system and have expertise in child and adolescent development.

Apply for the role of Intensive Family Support Specialist today.