Question 1

General Recruitment

Accepted Answer

1. Who is Y Whittlesea and why should I join the team?Y Whittlesea is not your average profit for purpose (not-for-profit) – we’re the world’s oldest youth organisation and a super-powered social enterprise. Every bit of profit we make goes back into our awesome communities. By becoming part of the Y family, you’ll have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. Moreover, you’ll be part of something bigger, as all surpluses from Y Whittlesea go back into the communities we serve, supporting those with a disability, children attending early years education, community schools, and more.2. What perks come with the job?Oh, the perks are amazing! Get ready for work/life balance, reduced childcare fees (for Children’s Services staff), a free gym membership, personal development opportunities, salary packaging (for permanent Inclusion staff) and competitive salary rates. Plus, we offer an Employee Assistance Program to support you during tough times.3. Why am I required to complete pre-employment background checks?At the Y, we are committed to keeping all Children, Young and Vulnerable People safe, at the Y, in their families and in their communities. As such, we ensure that all our candidates are appropriately screened to make sure that the right individuals are placed in suitable roles. To learn more about our screening processes, view and download our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy and our Child Safe Screening Practices.4. What kind of candidates are you seeking to join your team?At Y Whittlesea, we’re all about diversity and inclusion. If you’re passionate, positive, and full of life, you’re our kind of hero. We welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds, especially those with awesome life experiences to share. If you don’t have the qualifications needed for a role, but keen to join the team, we still want to hear from you. We are committed to supporting personal development journeys.5. What roles are available?There’s something for everyone. Jump into Early Years, Disability Support, Secondary school, Recreation & Support Services, and more. Choose your adventure!6. What is the standard Y Whittlesea recruitment process?Once we receive your application, we’ll review it, we may chat with you on the phone, and get to know you through interviews. We’ll also conduct background checks and references to ensure a good fit – then you become part of the Y family.7. How do you accommodate and support people with disabilities?We embrace and promote the employment of individuals with disabilities. As an NDIS provider, we provide unwavering support throughout the recruitment process and beyond. If you have any accessibility requirements, feel free to inform us during the application process or even after you’ve joined the team. Our goal is to ensure you have all the necessary support to shine brightly in your role.8. Do you offer work experience, placement or volunteering opportunities?Certainly! At Y Whittlesea, we provide various work experience, placement, and volunteering opportunities. Whether you’re seeking hands-on experience or looking to contribute your skills to meaningful projects, we welcome you to join our team and make a positive impact in the community. Email recruitment@ywhittlesea.org.au to submit your interest.9. Do I have to be an Australian Citizen to work at the Y?We are an inclusive organisation and value the benefits that diversity brings. As long as you have rights to work in Australia and those rights are suitable to the role you are applying for, we encourage you to apply. Residency and visa statuses are checked in the pre-employment process for all applicants.10. Is there a minimum age to be considered for a role at the Y?If you’re 15 years or older, you can join the Y family and start your epic journey.  If you are younger, still reach out to us to register your interest so we can explore options for you in the future.11. Is there room for growth within Y Whittlesea?At Y Whittlesea, the sky’s the limit. As a ‘profit for purpose’ organisation, we are committed to fostering talent and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth. Your journey with us is just the beginning of something truly special.

Question 2

Recruitment Process

Accepted Answer

Application:1. Ready to join the adventure! How do I apply? It’s easy. Just hop onto our careers page on our website, find the job you wish to apply for and submit your application before the closing date. Showcase your super skills and experiences by sending us your resume/CV and, if you can, also include an epic cover letter. Please note that we only accept applications via our website, so get ready to shine. Please remember, as an organisation committed to inclusion and diversity, if you do not have a resume, if English is your second language or technology gives you heart palpitations, please email us on recruitment@ywhittlesea.org.au and we can look at ways to support your application process.2. I’ve submitted my application for a role online. When can I expect to hear from you?Please be patient with us as we work through a large volume of applications. The Hiring Manager will reach out within 7 working days of the application closing date if you have progressed to the next stage. Otherwise, you’ll receive an email informing you of the outcome of your application.3. How will I know that you have received my application?Once you’ve submitted your online application, you’ll receive an automated email confirming that we’ve received your application. If you do not receive a confirmation email within 24-48 hours please log back into our career page to ensure your application has been submitted correctly.4. Can I apply for more than one role?Absolutely! We’re thrilled to see your dedication. Apply for multiple roles if your heart is drawn to various ways of making a positive impact. Once you have applied for one job, you can use that same email address and password you entered to apply for other jobs.  If you have forgotten your password, just enter your email address and click on “Login”. An email with a login link will be sent to your inbox.5. How can I be considered for future roles?If you cannot find the perfect role for you advertised right now, don’t worry. You can submit your expression of interest to one or more of our ongoing expressions of interest job ads on our career page.6. I’m having trouble with my application. What do I do?We want to make finding your dream job as easy as possible, so if you require additional support, please email us directly at recruitment@ywhittlesea.org.au.7. Can I change my application once submitted?Make sure to double-check everything before you hit submit, as once your application sets sail, unfortunately changes cannot be made. If you need to send additional information, then please forward to recruitment@ywhittlesea.org.au.8. Will I receive feedback if I’m not selected?We appreciate every application we receive. Although we cannot provide individual feedback for everyone, we do value your interest and hope you’ll continue to support our cause.

Question 3

Interviews

Accepted Answer

1. What should I expect at an interview, and how should I prepare?Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but don’t worry, just be yourself. Prepare by showcasing your enthusiasm, sharing relevant experiences, and highlighting your alignment with the Y’s mission. Do your research, anticipate behavioural questions, and be ready to demonstrate how your skills align with our programs. Also note, we take the safeguarding of children, young and vulnerable people very seriously at the Y, so related questions will also be part of your interview. The number of interviews you’ll be invited to will depend on the role you’re applying for. The Hiring Manager will keep you informed as your application progresses.2. How long does it take to make a decision after an interview, and when will I know the outcome?After the interview, please allow approximately 7 working days for our Hiring Manger to get back to you with a phone call.3. How are interviews conducted at the Y?We conduct interviews in various ways, including phone screening interviews, face-to-face sessions, group interviews, and/or online meetings.4. If I’m running late or cannot attend an interview, who do I notify and how?If you encounter any issues with your interview schedule, promptly call or email the Hiring Manager you’ve been working with. You’ll find their contact details on your interview confirmation email.

Question 4

Background Checks

Accepted Answer

1. What pre-employment background checks are required?To ensure a safe and secure environment for all Children and Young and Vulnerable People at the Y, we require the following pre-employment background checks:Current Victorian Working with Children CheckVIT registration (for Early Childhood Teachers)Current National Police checkInternational Police Check (If you have lived outside Australia for 3 months or more in the last 5 years)NDIS Worker Screening Check (If working in a ‘a high-risk role’)Photo ID listing your full name & date of birth.Reference Checks2. Why am I required to complete pre-employment background checks?At the Y, we are committed to keeping all Children, Young and Vulnerable People safe, at the Y, in their families and in their communities. As such, we ensure that all our candidates are appropriately screened to make sure that the right individuals are placed in suitable roles. To learn more about our screening processes, click here to view our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy.3. What is your reference check process?Once you’ve progressed to the reference check stage, we will send you a link to invite your referees along with reference instructions. When you log in, you can extend the invitation to your referees and kindly request them to respond within 2-3 days. Remember, this part is crucial for our mission’s success. Meeting the minimum reference requirement and completing the checks within a reasonable timeframe will ensure you stay in the running for the role of a lifetime.4. I don’t want my current manager to know I’m looking for a job. Can I provide someone else as a reference?Certainly! You can provide a reference from your most recent past employer, such as a supervisor from a previous workplace, volunteer coordinator from a community group or a teacher.5. I have had a negative experience with a previous workplace, do I need to ask them to provide a reference?In such cases, you are not obligated to request a reference from a workplace where you had a negative experience. Instead, you can provide references from other professional supervisors/managers or suitable individuals who can vouch for your skills, character and abilities.

Question 5

Offer / Hire

Accepted Answer

1. I’ve been successful at interview stage and completed all background checks, what’s next?Congratulations! You’ll receive a phone call from the Hiring Manager extending the job offer and discussing the exciting start date. Following that, you’ll get a link to complete your contract. If you’ve been offered multiple roles, you will then receive additional links to complete your additional contracts.2. I haven’t received my contract yet, what should I do?No worries, sometimes it takes a moment to sync up. If you haven’t received your contract within two days, take a peek in your junk mail. If it’s still MIA (missing in action), please reach out to your Hiring Manager for assistance or email recruitment@ywhittlesea.org.au.3. What training/induction should I expect?Once your contract is signed, your dedicated Hiring Manager will get in touch to give you the lowdown on how your first day/week will look like. Get ready for a mix of online training and on-the-job guidance to get you settled in.4. How should I prepare for my first day?You’re all set to embark on this wonderful journey with the Y. For a stellar first day, come looking sharp and neat, wear the correct uniform (if applicable), and be punctual – get ready for the start of a fantastic journey with the Y. If there is anything you need specifically, your Hiring Manager will communicate this to you.