- Pivotal Leadership Role
- Lead the provision of quality systems to support the delivery of high quality and culturally responsive services
- Be part of ensuring the highest level of care for South Australia’s most vulnerable children
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Department for Child Protection (DCP) works in partnership with families, government and non-government organisations, carers and the community to care for and protect vulnerable children and young people by addressing harm and keeping them safe. DCP are now seeking a Director, Quality and Safeguarding to support high quality, culturally responsive safe practices to vulnerable and at-risk children, young people and their families.
THE ROLE
Reporting to the Chief Practitioner DCP the Director, Quality and Safeguarding provides strategic leadership and expert oversight of quality assurance, safeguarding systems and critical review functions within the Department for Child Protection. As a senior leader within the Office of Professional Practice, the role is responsible for driving systemic improvements that enhance the safety, wellbeing and outcomes of vulnerable children, young people and their families.
The Director leads high-impact initiatives, policy development and cross-sector engagement to ensure DCP’s service delivery is evidence informed, culturally responsive and aligned with best practice standards. With accountability for key functions such as incident reporting, quality of care, strategic projects, practice improvements and operational policy governance, the role is pivotal in strengthening practice accountability and embedding a culture of continuous improvement.
THE CANDIDATE
The successful candidate will need to demonstrate:
- Proven ability to provide strategic leadership and direction within a complex service delivery environment, with a focus of quality, safeguarding, and professional practice.
- Demonstrated experience leading reform and cultural change initiatives across a statewide organisation.
- Strong leadership skills in driving practice and service improvements that reduce risk factors and enhance safety outcomes and for children and young people.
- Extensive knowledge of the child protection and/or human service system and innovative policy, strategy development and service delivery.
- Experience leading and supporting multi-disciplinary teams to deliver both strategic projects and business-as-usual operations aligned with organisational priorities.
- Demonstrated ability to work in partnership with Aboriginal communities and organisations, with a commitment to culturally responsive practice and Closing the Gap outcomes.
- Skilled in identifying systemic risks and emerging practice trends, and applying evidence to inform strategy, policy, and continuous improvement.
- Highly developed communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and build trust at all levels.
- Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic policy, quality frameworks, and governance structures that support high-performing practice.
HOW TO APPLY
The closing date for applications is Monday, 25 August 2025, at 9am. The reference number to include in your application is H25_5197.
