Research Assistant

For over 240 years combined, Berry Street and Yooralla have been at the forefront of supporting Australians with a disability and those experiencing poverty, violence and abuse. Now, as one unified organisation, we bring together unparalleled expertise and a shared commitment to empowering individuals and families to thrive, while upholding and championing their human rights. We believe in a future where everyone has the opportunity to live the fulfilling life they choose for themselves, free from the impacts of trauma, violence, and abuse, achieved safely and with dignity.

• Melbourne, Wurrundjeri Country
• Fixed Term, until Dec 31 2026 (due to funding)
• Flexible 0.8-1.0FTE available
• Base Salary of $88k pa (pro rata) + Superannuation + Salary Packaging

The Opportunity

Berry Street Yooralla is partnering with La Trobe University on an impactful research project focused on improving outcomes for children, young people, and families with cumulative or escalating needs.

This role sits at the intersection of research and practice, contributing to evidence that strengthens Family Services delivery and supports early intervention for families at risk of Child Protection involvement.

You will play a key role in:

• Designing and delivering qualitative and quantitative research activities
• Analysing and interpreting data to generate meaningful insights
• Supporting the development of evidence-informed practice approaches
• Producing high-quality reports and presenting findings to diverse stakeholders
• Contributing to research that strengthens how services support families experiencing complex challenges

About you

We are seeking a highly skilled professional with strong expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research, including data collection, analysis and interpretation.

You will bring:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to produce high-quality reports and confidently deliver presentations and facilitate discussions.
• An understanding of the family services system and the complexities faced by vulnerable families
• Ability to engage sensitively with clients, including parents and young people, and navigate the challenges of conducting research in this sector
• Bachelor qualification in Psychology, Social Work, or related discipline is required for this position

Experience working in or alongside the Victorian community services sector will be highly regarded.

Our Benefits

• Additional salary packaging available for meals/accommodation.
• Flexible work arrangements and generous leave conditions.
• Access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including access for staff members’ immediate family.

How to Apply

Applications including resume and cover letter addressing your suitability for the position to be submitted. Please note applications will be reviewed and assessed as received.

Any queries please let Christina Ambrosi - Senior Research Officer on cambrosi@berrystreet.org.au

We believe in diversity, inclusion and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of the Victorian community. We recognise the benefits that diversity and inclusion brings, and in turn encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities and identities to apply to our vacancies.

We encourage applications from people with lived experience of disability. You'll receive adjustments and support throughout the whole process — from the application stage to starting in the workplace. If you require the position description in a different format or any accommodation or assistance during the application and interview stages please contact the person listed on the ad or alternatively email recruitment@berrystreet.org.au or call 9421 9392.

Berry Street Yooralla is committed to being a child safe, child friendly and child empowering organisation. In everything we do we seek to protect children. We are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children; children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds; children with a disability; children who identify as LGBTIQA+. We aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their cultural background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, spirituality or religion.

Please Note; the successful applicant will be subject to comprehensive reference and background checking prior to employment, including a NDIS Screening Check, Working with Children Check and National and International Police check (if required) and NDIS training.