About Us The Mai-Wel Group is a Hunter region not-for-profit connecting people with possibilities for nearly 65 years. We partner with people with disability, young people and those experiencing disadvantage to build independence, confidence and real pathways into community, education, training, employment and enterprise. With a team of more than 370 people, we deliver integrated, person-centred supports across daily living and independence, social and creative participation, and real-world work-readiness programs that lead to jobs—reinvesting every dollar to grow impact across our region. Trusted, local and outcomes-driven, Mai-Wel is Full of Possible.
Job Description
Are you passionate about supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to thrive in their communities, education, and employment pathways?
Mai-Wel is seeking a dedicated Youth Support Mentor – Identified Position to provide culturally safe mentoring, advocacy, and support to young people participating in our youth and employment programs.
This is a meaningful opportunity to make a real difference by building strong connections with young people, families, communities, and services while helping create positive social, educational, and employment outcomes.
About the Role
As the Youth Support Mentor, you will play a key role in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth through culturally respectful mentoring and community connection. You will act as a cultural liaison between young participants, families, community organisations, and Mai-Wel staff to ensure services are safe, inclusive, and responsive.
You will also help strengthen relationships with local Aboriginal communities and contribute to embedding cultural awareness and understanding across Mai-Wel programs and practices.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
Provide culturally appropriate mentoring and support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people
Support participants to engage in education, training, employment, and community programs
Act as a cultural liaison between participants, families, community organisations, and Mai-Wel staff
Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with local Aboriginal communities
Advocate for young people and assist them to overcome barriers to participation and success
Provide cultural guidance and advice to staff to support culturally safe service delivery
Contribute to reporting, program evaluation, and continuous improvement activities
Desired Skills and Experience
About You
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal cultures, values, and community perspectives
Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, families, or communities
Experience in mentoring, youth support, community engagement, or a similar role
Strong relationship-building and communication skills
An understanding of culturally safe practices
The ability to work collaboratively and build trust with participants, families, and stakeholders
A current Driver’s Licence
Desirable
Certificate IV or Diploma in Youth Work, Community Services, Social Work, or a related field
Mental Health First Aid
Experience in employment services, youth services, or community programs
Knowledge of local Aboriginal community networks and services
Experience supporting young people into education, training, or employment
Identified Position
This is an Identified Position and is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only, in line with relevant legislation.
Applicants may be required to provide confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage as part of the recruitment process.
Why Join Mai-Wel?
At Mai-Wel, our values of Respect, Integrity and Excellence guide everything we do. We are committed to making diversity, equity and inclusion part of everyday practice and creating a workplace where people feel supported, valued and belong.
This is your chance to join an organisation that is committed to improving outcomes for young people and building stronger community connections across the Hunter region.
Apply Now
If you are passionate about supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and want to help create meaningful pathways to education, training and employment, we would love to hear from you.
Applications should include a current resume and a short cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role.
