Working in community services offers a rewarding opportunity to help individuals, families, and communities improve their well-being and quality of life. In this role, you provide essential support such as counselling, advocacy, and assistance to diverse groups facing social, cultural, or economic challenges.
You play a crucial role in addressing health, housing, education, and social inclusion issues. Building respectful and trusting relationships empowers clients, promotes social justice, and strengthens communities. Whether you're assisting youth, the elderly, people with disabilities, or marginalised populations, your work significantly impacts people's lives.
There are several different types of legislation that impact the community service sector. These will also differ depending on your state or territory.
The following are some of the key legislation to be mindful of in community services at a national level:
- The Work Health and Safety Act 2011
- The Aged Care Act 1997
- Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission Act 2018
- The Child Protection Act 1999
- The Mental Health Act 2014
- Homelessness Persons' Assistance Act 1974
- The Homelessness Bill 2013
- The Anti-Discrimination Act 1991
- The Disability Discrimination Act 1992
- The Racial Discrimination Act 1975 The Privacy Act 1988
There are also various laws relating to Domestic and Family Violence. You can read more about this by clicking here.
After completing a Cert IV in Community Services, you can pursue further studies to deepen your understanding and advance your career. Advanced qualifications in case management can equip you with enhanced skills and knowledge and prepare you for leadership roles, policy development, and research opportunities to improve service delivery.
Ongoing study can also include professional development (PD), which, often in community services, is mandatory for you to stay updated on industry trends and best practices when working with individuals or groups in your specialised area.
For example:
Emerging Minds offers free online training courses to support children's mental health and well-being.
The Black Dog Institute offers a variety of free resources and tools to understand Mental Health.
The Association of Children's Welfare Agencies offer free online courses to support people working with children and young people and their carers or families.
