Empower renters to understand their rights, resolve tenancy issues and access practical advocacy and support.

Employment type: Full Time Ongoing
Classification: Social Worker Level 5
Salary: $105,736 to $110,518 + Superannuation + Salary Packaging
Salary packaging options: Up to $15,900 plus meals and entertainment benefits
Location: Ballarat, VIC
Above award entitlements: Including 3 days paid Christmas Leave annually

Our Values
At Cafs, our work is guided by the values of:
Respect | Integrity | Collaboration | Kindness | Innovation

About the Program
The Renter Rights Service provides local, place-based support to renters across Victoria. As part of the broader Victorian Renter Rights Program, the service helps renters access information, negotiation, advocacy and practical assistance to resolve issues in their renting arrangements.

About the Role
As the Renter Rights Service Practitioner, you will support renters experiencing housing insecurity, financial disadvantage, family violence and other vulnerabilities to understand their rights and navigate tenancy issues.

You will provide tailored rental information, practical assistance, negotiation and advocacy, including support with Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria and Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal processes. Working collaboratively across the renter support sector, you will help build renter capability and contribute to a coordinated, accessible and effective service system.

Key Responsibilities

Act as a first point of contact, complete screening and needs assessments, and identify eligibility, urgency, risk and safety concerns.
Triage referrals, manage intake waitlists and follow-up processes, and connect renters with appropriate housing, legal and community supports.
Provide tailored information and practical rental advice based on each renter's circumstances.
Negotiate and undertake conciliation with rental providers, real estate agents and other parties to support fair and collaborative resolutions.
Assist renters to prepare letters, documents and applications, and provide information about RDRV and VCAT processes.
Attend and advocate for renters at RDRV and VCAT hearings when renters cannot effectively represent themselves.
Maintain current knowledge of rental practice and law, particularly the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, and participate in required training and supervision.
Maintain accurate client records, casework data and reporting while delivering culturally safe, accessible and trauma-informed support.
Why Join Cafs?
At Cafs, you'll join a supportive and inclusive organisation where your contribution genuinely matters.

Professional development and career progression opportunities
Regular supervision, specialist training and leadership support
A supportive, collaborative and values-based culture
An organisation committed to child safety, inclusion, diversity and eliminating family violence
The opportunity to strengthen renter capability and support fair, sustainable housing outcomes
How to Apply
If you are an experienced client-focused practitioner with knowledge of housing, community services, law, social work or dispute resolution, and a commitment to practical advocacy and equitable outcomes for renters, we would love to hear from you.