Working at Melba Support Services (Melba)

• We support people with disability to live the life they want.

• We have a Zero Tolerance approach to violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

• Every member of the Melba community is committed to The Melba Way Charter, our vision, purpose and values.

• Melba aims to create welcoming and respectful workplaces that promote inclusive and collaborative working relationships.

For over 50 years Melba Support Services has been providing services to people with disability that focus on supporting people to dream big, embrace life and do what they choose and value. Melba is firmly grounded in upholding human rights and recognises that part of living a happy, healthy life is being independent and being able to do the things that bring us joy. Melba won the 2023 National Disability Award for Excellence in Service Quality. 

Why Join Us? 

We are a human-rights, values-based, not-for-profit community organisation committed to providing services that support individuals with disability to lead everyday lives of their choice, if this resonates with you, come join us!

Overview

Melba Support Services has partnered with Box Hill Institute, Federation University, TAFE Gippsland and Victoria University to offer student placement opportunities designed to kick start your career and build hands-on experience in real-world environments.

Eligible students must be enrolled with one of our Registered Training Organisation (RTO) partners and studying a participating Disability, Community Services, or Mental Health course. Placement opportunities are available across two of our service areas:

• Supported Independent Living (SIL): Supporting people with daily routines, building life skills and promoting independence within their own homes.

• Day Programs: Community-based activities, skill-building workshops and social experiences that support people to explore their interests and build independence.

Melba is offering several placement opportunities based at our sites across Victoria in locations including:

• Ballarat & Horsham (Central Highlands & Wimmera)

• Carrum Downs (Southern Suburbs)

• Lilydale & Mount Evelyn (Eastern Suburbs)

• Warragul, Traralgon and Bairnsdale (Gippsland)

Interested in completing a Student Placement with Melba? Click ‘Apply’ and submit your application by 15 June 2026.

Job Description

This placement provides an opportunity for the student to gain practical experience and develop skills in the disability support sector. Under supervision, the student will work alongside experienced employees to support people in achieving their personal goals, building their independence and assisting them to live a fabulous life.

• Assist in the planning and delivery of individualised support services to people we support.

• Participate in daily activities, community engagement and capacity building programs.

• Develop supportive, respectful and inclusive relationships with people supported and colleagues.

• Observe and apply person-led strengths-based approaches.

• Maintain accurate records and documentation in accordance with Melba policies on privacy and confidentiality.

• Engage in reflective practice and participate in supervision, training and team meetings as required.

• Collaborate with team members to promote inclusive practices, upholding Melba values, policies and procedures.

• Adhere to Melba policies, procedures and relevant legislation, including NDIS requirements.

Your Background (Skills and attributes)

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds and varied support needs.

• A genuine interest in supporting people to live a fabulous life.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of placement.

• Currently enrolled in a relevant course.

• A current NDIS Worker Screening and Working with Children Check (Employee).

• Successful completion of pre-employment safety screening checks, mandatory training, (including ongoing renewals).

• Ability to comply with OHS&W regulations, legislation and Melba policies and procedures.

• A current First Aid and CPR Certificate.

• The ability to travel and work a variety of shifts.

Desirable

• A valid Australian driver's licence.

Occupation Health Safety and Wellbeing (OHS&W)

• Take reasonable care for their health, safety, and wellbeing and that of others.

• Observe safe systems of work.

• Comply with OHS&W policies and procedures.

• Report hazards, near misses and incidents in accordance with the agreed incident reporting system.

• Contribute to a positive culture in relation to OHS&W and participate in consultative structures.

Inclusion at Melba

Melba Support Services recognises the contribution that a diverse workforce makes to continuous improvement and service delivery and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Melba Support Services values diversity and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. People with disabilities and from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are also encouraged to apply. Melba Support Services is committed to making reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process and day-to-day work. As a provider of supports and services to children, Melba is committed to ensuring that every child feels safe and respected. All Melba staff and volunteers have a responsibility to make sure that children’s wellbeing and safety comes first, that they are supported to achieve their potential, respected, and protected from abuse and neglect.