BACKGROUND

Since 1987, ACES has been providing programs and services to Aboriginal Elders. ACES was incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act (1981) and have a Board of Management made up of elected community members.

In the Australian context, ACES is unique in being both Aboriginal-run and specialising in provision of both planned activity group and residential aged care services.  At ACES culture is recognised as central to individual and community health. Further the integration of a range of programs on the site ensures continuity in the assessment and delivery of appropriate care to Aboriginal elders in a culturally appropriate environment as they age.

ENVIRONMENT

Amidst the hustle and bustle of East Brunswick, the Caring Place nestles in the serenity of lush, well maintained, bush-like gardens and the Merri Creek. The setting provides Residents with a friendly, relaxed culturally relevant home-like environment which is important to their health and well-being.

VISION STATEMENT

Our vision is to see the provision of ACES services continue to improve and expand through constant attention to high standards of service delivery that will be recognised throughout the community.

We will work to earn the respect of clients and their families and maintain a strong reputation within the Aboriginal community and the aged care industry sector. We will be known by our contribution to the quality of life of our clients.

We expect that one result of this will be and increased community demand for ACES services.

VALUES

• In safe and comfortable physical environments for those in need of residential care, or making use of the ACES facilities;
• maximising the independence of the client group especially as regards maintenance of family and community relationships;
• being respectful of client rights to privacy, dignity and confidentiality;
• valuing and fostering individual interests, customs and belief;
• providing high quality care and other services in a family home type environment that is welcoming of clients’ family members and friends as well as other community visitors.
• treating all clients with compassion and kindness

POSITION DETAILS: ACTIVITIES ASSISTANT

Purpose:

The Activities Assistant is responsible for the day to day implementation of the Social support Program based at East Brunswick and is under the direction of the Social Support Manager.

This role supports clients in participating in the program to enhance their lives and foster their independence, ensuring they receive quality, culturally appropriate, and engaging services.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Activities Assistant will assist with creating a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for clients and providing care and support to clients; setting up and running activities; encouraging client participation; care planning, assessments, risk assessments and cultural plans, assistance with meals, assistance with transport.

The role also involves contributing to program development, ensuring participant safety and fostering their independence, while effectively managing administrative tasks and advocating for their well-being through active participation in care planning and record-keeping.

Other duties as directed by the Social Support  Manager to ensure the program meets its objectives, in particular, meeting the needs of clients.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential :

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture and values.
• Ability to relate to Elders with a caring and respectful approach, in an equal and nonjudgmental manner.
• Experience in assessment and care planning
• Possession of the following certificates or ability to complete recognised courses:
• Certificate 3 in Aged Care/HACC and/or Certificate or Diploma in Community Services and/or Certificate in Leisure and Lifestyle
• Current first aid certificate.
• Safe Food Handling certificate (can be obtained once started)
• Relevant experience in the care of frail aged people, people with dementia or a disability
• Good communication skills including oral and written
• Proficiency in computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and other relevant software.
• Ability to conduct; review and evaluate activities and programs
• Ability to work as part of a small team, within the framework of the philosophy and principles of ACES.
• Current Victorian drivers licence
• Appointment is subject to satisfactory completion of a police check and Working with Children Check

Desirable

• Additional relevant qualifications in health services or aged care, such as a Diversional Therapy Certificate.
• Knowledge of and experience in working specifically with Aboriginal Elders.
• Experience using data recording software.

Ethical

• To treat all clients with dignity, privacy and confidentiality
• To work towards providing an enjoyable environment for supported clients
• Maintain harmonious relationships with all staff members
• Treat all client information as strictly confidential
• Treat all ACES Inc. information as strictly confidential

WHAT WE OFFER:

• A culturally safe and supportive work environment.
• A workplace conveniently located near the beautiful Merri Creek River and gardens.
• Access to Smart Salary Packaging benefits.

Applications will be reviewed, as received, and candidates will be contacted for interviews on rolling basis.

For any inquiries, please contact us via email at humanr@acesinc.org.au or by phone at 03 9383 4244.

Please note this position may only be available to persons of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent (Permitted under section 12 of the Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 2010: “A person may take a special measure for the purpose of promoting or realising substantive equality for members of a group with a particular attribute”).