A Community-Based Support Officer works with people, families, and community groups to find needs and link them to services. They play a key role in building community strength by connecting people to the right help at the right time. Assess community needs – Checks needs for health, welfare, housing, employment, and training in the local area. Liaise with stakeholders – Works with community groups, agencies, government bodies, and local businesses to address community issues. Develop support p...

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How to Become a Community-Based Support Officer: Australian Careers in Community Services

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On this page

What is a Community-Based Support Officer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Community-Based Support Officer?

A Community-Based Support Officer helps people access services and improve their lives. They work with community groups, government bodies, and non-profit groups to find and address local needs.

Their work covers health, welfare, housing, employment, and training. They meet with clients to find out what each person needs. They then link clients to the right services.

These officers also design and run programs for specific groups. They work with partners and promote awareness of local resources. This builds stronger ties across the whole community.

The role suits people who care about social justice and community growth. Strong communication skills, empathy, and flexibility are key. No two days are the same, making it a lively and rewarding career.

Career snapshots For Community-Based Support Officers

Community-Based Support Officers are in strong demand across Australia. Community and personal service roles are set to grow by 13.5% over the next five years. This means around 188,900 new positions are expected in this period (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Most roles are in government bodies, non-profits, and community health groups in both city and regional areas.

Full-time hours average 38 to 40 per week. Part-time and flexible work is common. Entry-level pay starts at around $52,000 per year. Experienced officers earn $75,000 to $85,000, rising to $90,000 or above in senior or specialist roles (Community Work Australia, 2025).

What will I do?

A Community-Based Support Officer works with people, families, and community groups to find needs and link them to services. They play a key role in building community strength by connecting people to the right help at the right time.

Assess community needs – Checks needs for health, welfare, housing, employment, and training in the local area.
Liaise with stakeholders – Works with community groups, agencies, government bodies, and local businesses to address community issues.
Develop support programs – Plans and runs education and training programs for specific community groups.
Monitor client progress – Tracks client outcomes and prepares reports on the impact of support services.
Facilitate referrals – Connects clients with extra services that can provide further help.
Conduct outreach activities – Runs community events to raise awareness of available services and resources.
Prepare funding submissions – Writes proposals and reports to secure funding for community programs.
Support families – Provides education and care for families, including children and people with disability, in various settings.

What skills do I need?

A Community-Based Support Officer needs a broad mix of hands-on and people skills. Strong communication is key, as the role means talking with clients, agencies, and government bodies every day.

Empathy and cultural awareness help officers build trust with people from all backgrounds. Problem-solving lets them check complex needs and find the right support. Good time management is also vital, as officers juggle multiple cases and write reports for funding bodies. Knowledge of local services, welfare policies, and community resources rounds out the skill set for this role.

Skills/attributes

Clear verbal and written communication
Empathy and active listening
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Cultural sensitivity and awareness
Needs assessment and evaluation
Case management and service coordination
Report writing and funding submissions
Knowledge of community resources and services
Understanding of social welfare policies
Conflict resolution
Time management and organisation
Ability to work alone or as part of a team
Basic computer skills for records and reporting
Community engagement and outreach
Flexibility and adaptability

Resources

NATIONAL

VIC

ACT

TAS

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