Refuge Worker
SOC 21-1093.00 · ESCO 3412 · OSCA 411635
Role snapshot
Overview
Provides practical and emotional support to people staying in crisis accommodation, helping with safety planning, daily needs, and referrals to longer-term services. Refuge workers offer immediate assistance, advocacy, and guidance to individuals and families experiencing domestic violence, homelessness, or other crises, ensuring their safety and connecting them to essential resources for recovery and stability.
Offers a safe haven and critical support to vulnerable individuals and families, empowering them to escape dangerous situations, heal from trauma, and build pathways to a more stable and independent future.
On the job
- Provide immediate emotional support and crisis intervention to residents.
- Assist residents with daily living needs, including food, shelter, and hygiene.
- Develop, implement, and review safety plans with individuals and families.
- Connect residents with external resources such as legal aid, housing, employment services, and counseling.
- Maintain accurate records, case notes, and confidential documentation for residents.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
A certificate, diploma, or bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related human services field is often preferred. Experience in crisis intervention or victim support is highly valued.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Refuge Worker
Allied Health
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SCE
Individuals who are highly social, enjoy helping others, and are organized in their approach to providing structured support thrive in this role. It appeals to those who are compassionate, responsible, and capable of working effectively in challenging environments.
Personality characteristics
Empathetic listener
Genuinely connects with people in distress, listens actively, and understands their perspectives without judgment.
Organized and responsible
Manages multiple cases, appointments, and documentation accurately and reliably, ensuring all protocols are followed.
Resilient under pressure
Remains calm, composed, and effective when dealing with high-stress situations, emotional clients, or unexpected crises.
Proactive helper
Takes initiative to identify needs, connect individuals with appropriate resources, and advocate for their well-being.
Collaborative team player
Works effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and external agencies to ensure comprehensive and holistic client support.
Best for
- People who are passionate about social justice and supporting vulnerable populations.
- Individuals who excel in high-pressure environments and can provide calm, structured support.
- Those who are highly organized, empathetic, and skilled at navigating complex support systems.
Watch out for
- Can be emotionally demanding and require strong self-care practices to prevent burnout.
- Requires adaptability and quick thinking in unpredictable crisis situations, which can be stressful.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Refuge Worker — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
FREE ASSESSMENT
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