Community Worker

Summary

Community workers encourage and assist community groups to identify their needs, participate in decision-making and develop appropriate services and facilities to meet those needs.

Duties & Tasks

Community workers may perform the following tasks:

  • assist community groups in planning, developing, maintaining and evaluating community resources, programs and support networks
  • support, develop and evaluate strategies that encourage community participation in activities
  • research, analyse and assist council, town planning, corporate planning and environmental health departments in developing community service policies
  • communicate frequently with community groups, welfare agencies, government bodies, non-government organisations and private businesses about community services such as housing, health, welfare and recreation
  • monitor, evaluate and recommend changes to community development programs, policies, practices or budgets
  • help raise community and public awareness regarding issues such as welfare rights by promoting, organising and/or helping to coordinate meetings and seminars
  • carry out administrative work which may include written correspondence, preparing submissions and reports for government bodies or other agencies and attending management meetings.

Specialisations

Aboriginal Affairs Administrator

An Aboriginal affairs administrator is involved in running organisations that provide services and assistance to Aboriginal communities in areas such as art and crafts, education, health and housing. Their work also involves organising events and activities to meet local needs.

Working Conditions

The work of community workers involves considerable personal contact and travel within communities. They are normally expected to attend evening meetings and occasional weekend activities.

Personal Requirements

  • enjoy assisting people
  • able to work independently
  • able to work in cooperation with others
  • good work organisation and time management skills
  • able to relate to people effectively and patiently
  • able to manage and help resolve conflict
  • able to understand the issues and interests of the communities involved
  • good oral and written communication skills.

Related Courses:

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