Manager, Family Services
Job No:
296317
Location:
Katherine, NT
- Starting salary from $115K + Relocation + Growth Path to Senior Leadership
- Lead a strong, values-driven team improving family wellbeing in remote Aboriginal communities
- Work in an organisation where community control, cultural safety, and long-term relationships come first
- Shape the future of a growing social care program with strong internal support and autonomy
- Get hands-on with real impact – from governance strategy to on-the-ground connection in the bush
Who We Are & Why We’re Different
Katherine West Health Board (KWHB) is a community-led Aboriginal health service delivering integrated primary healthcare, allied health, and wellbeing programs across more than 160,000 km² of remote NT — stretching from the Victoria River country along the WA border to the tip of the Tanami desert.
Our work is grounded in cultural security, guided by community control, and driven by long-term impact. From maternal health to disability support, we build trusted relationships that lead to real outcomes for our mob in the bush.
As an Aboriginal community-controlled organisation, we value inclusion, local leadership, and purpose-driven people. We’re not your typical workplace — and we’re proud of that.
Learn more: www.kwhb.com.au
Lead a Critical Program at the Heart of Community Wellbeing
Katherine West Health Board is looking for a full-time Manager Family Services, based in Katherine, NT.
Reporting to the Executive Manager Family Services, you’ll lead a multidisciplinary team delivering programs across social care, family violence, disability, and elder care support. You’ll manage operations, staff development, compliance, and strategy, with a strong focus on cultural safety and quality improvement.
More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Managing day-to-day operations of KWHB family services programs including compliance and resourcing
- Leading and mentoring coordinators and case managers across multiple streams
- Liaising with internal and external stakeholders including funders and government agencies
- Driving quality improvement and ensuring culturally safe and responsive service delivery
- Writing reports and delivering outcomes in line with funding KPIs
- Participating in governance committees and strategy meetings
To read the full position description, please click here.
How We’ll Set You Up for Success
We know stepping into a new leadership role — especially in the bush — requires context and support. That’s why your onboarding will focus on connection before strategy.
In your first few weeks, you’ll:
- Travel to remote communities alongside social workers and maternal and child health teams
- Visit bush health centres and observe frontline work
- Meet local stakeholders and partner organisations
- Shadow the Executive Manager to learn the governance rhythm
- Gain a full picture of how the service operates across the region
You’ll be supported to learn the landscape, understand the relationships, and build confidence before fully taking the reins.
Step Into a Strong, Values-Led Team With Real Momentum
You’ll report to a grounded, approachable Executive Manager who’s walked in your shoes. Having previously held this role, she brings corporate knowledge, and a genuine interest in your growth – offering close guidance and support. She’s built this team with care, and is committed to maintaining the positive working culture they’ve developed.
You’ll lead a team of ten experienced professionals spanning family support, family violence, NDIS and elder care coordination, support services, and child and family wellbeing.
The team is deeply committed, culturally responsive, and driven by a strong sense of purpose in client advocacy and continuous improvement. Strong foundations and operational scaffolding are now firmly in place, positioning the team to deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes for families and communities moving forward.
They’re looking for a leader who’s approachable, steady under pressure, and confident guiding complex work. Someone who listens, mentors, and fosters a safe, supportive environment where people feel backed – especially when the work gets challenging.
Who We’re Looking For
To qualify, you will need a tertiary qualification in Human Services, Social Work, Community Development, Management or a related field.
The following skills and background will be highly valued:
- Leadership of multidisciplinary teams
- Stakeholder engagement and partnership-building
- Strong written communication and reporting skills
- Project and program management
- Cultural competency in Aboriginal community settings
As our ideal candidate, you’re calm, thoughtful, and pragmatic – especially in high-stakes or emotionally complex settings. You’re not just capable, you’re collaborative: a mentor, a relationship-builder, and a systems thinker.
This is an opportunity to lead with purpose, shape an evolving program, and directly contribute to positive outcomes for remote Aboriginal families across the NT.
What’s in It for You
Compensation is a competitive salary starting at $115,000 + super, with flexibility to negotiate for the right candidate. You’ll also enjoy:
- Relocation assistance and supported onboarding
- Paid travel allowance to remote NT communities
- Leadership development and career progression opportunities
- A respected, culturally grounded organisation driven by impact
- A warm, supportive team and a strong internal reputation
- A path into future senior leadership within KWHB
If you’re ready to lead with heart, make real impact, and grow in a role full of purpose – we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and help shape the future of family wellbeing in the NT.