“Soon after completing my course, I applied for a permanent caseworker position with DoCS and was successfully appointed. The initial caseworker training gave me additional knowledge and tools to do the job.
After spending my first few years with DoCS as a general caseworker, I then moved into the Joint Investigative Response Team (JIRT), which is made up of DoCS caseworkers and members of NSW Police and NSW Health, who work together investigating serious child protection matters. I enjoyed this role and the working environment because in many instances we were able to obtain good outcomes for the children involved.
Between 2002 and 2003, I was given a few opportunities to work temporarily as a Casework Manager at various locations. Later, I was encouraged to apply for a permanent Casework Manager role.
When I first became a manager there wasn’t much management training, but changes have meant that the Department now implements a number of professional development programs including the DoCS Management Training and Practice Supervision meetings. Practice Supervision meetings occur once a month and provide us with access to new research and the opportunity to discuss how we can improve services to our clients, and continue to improve ourselves and our teams professionally. DoCS is committed to the professional development of staff and provides many opportunities for caseworkers and casework managers to move into different areas of work. As part of my ongoing professional development DoCS supported me in completing a law degree in March 2007.
When asked about the things I enjoy most about my job, I would say it is the diversity of the work, the ongoing challenges, staying close to field work and supervising staff. I especially enjoy developing and guiding my team and seeing them reach their goals.
The positive changes in DoCS have made it an exciting place to work and have greatly improved our capacity to provide new and better services to our clients.”
