Safe Places For Children
Write a review
    Safe Places For Children
    (75 reviews)
    Write a review
    Write a review

    Company Reviews

    Working at Safe Places For Children

    3.075 ratings in total
    5
    21
    4
    13
    3
    5
    2
    14
    1
    22
    88%
    Rate salary as high or average
    48%
    Employees recommend this employer to friends
    Work/Life balance
    2.5(74 ratings)
    Career development
    3.6(74 ratings)
    Benefits & perks
    3.1(73 ratings)
    Management
    2.8(75 ratings)
    Working environment
    2.8(75 ratings)
    Diversity & equal opportunity
    3.3(75 ratings)
    Ratings for Safe Places For Children are shared as-is from employees in line with our community guidelines

    Reviews

    Showing 75 reviews sorted by most recent
    Sort by
    most recent
    2.0
    Case Manager
    Dec 2025
    All Gold Coast QLD7 to 8 years in the role, former employee
    Consider your mental health
    The good thingsPassionate supportive work with the Young People.
    The challengesThe organisations business model is not sustainable and outdated with an overload of work pushed onto the role which takes away support for leadership of teams and positive outcomes for the Young People. On call has no solution in sight with expectations of 5 days a week 24 hour on call while expected to pick up shifts and do your role with minimal support. There is no flexibility allowed which creates no work life balance. Toxic managers are kept in positions due to a level of need rather then merit and good staff are being overlooked while formal complaints are ignored. The organisation has lost itself in growth instead of being "all about the young people" it is all about the bottom dollar.
    1 person found this helpful
    1.0
    Case Manager
    Oct 2025
    Beenleigh QLD 42074 to 5 years in the role, former employee
    There are better companies out their who value their staff
    The good thingsWorking with the kids and supporting them Meeting some passionate people who genuinely care
    The challengesToxic upper management run by egos and favouritism, they say it’s all about the kids but that’s a lie it’s about box ticking and ego. They throw staff under the bus without any hesitation, they ask for feedback to make things better but do nothing about it. They keep toxic managers in roles they shouldn’t be in and wonder why things will never change
    1.0
    Youth Worker
    Sep 2025
    Brisbane QLD 4000Less than 1 year in the role, former employee
    Much better jobs out there where you are treated with RESPECT.
    The good thingsNone that I can come up with to be honest. It was a very negative experience from start to finish.
    The challengesManagement has no idea at all.
    1.0
    A/ Case Manager
    Aug 2025
    Beenleigh QLD 42073 to 4 years in the role, former employee
    Adults were worse than the kids.
    The good thingsThe relationships with the kids.
    The challengesToxic Management it's not what you know but who you know. Quick to throw employees under the bus so they look good for stakeholder.
    2 people found this helpful
    2.0
    Residential Youth Worker
    Jul 2025
    Beenleigh QLD 42071 to 2 years in the role, former employee
    24hr shifts is to much!
    The good thingsTCI trainings, friendships made.
    The challenges24hr shifts. Jumping from house-to-house. Bonding with the kids than being sent to another house. Banked hours
    1 person found this helpful
    4.0
    Mutliple Roles - Currenty Area Manager
    May 2025
    Ipswich QLD 43059 to 10 years in the role, current employee
    Overall Safe Places is a good place to work and I continue to see that they are trying to improve themselves which is all you can ask for
    The good thingsSafe Places is a good place to work that focuses on internal progression. I have found that Safe Places wants to continuously improve on themselves and I have seen the improvements made over the years. You get 6 weeks annual leave, 10 days sick leave and an anniversary bonus.
    The challengesSometimes you may not agree with all decisions made It can be very demanding of your time however you know that when you sign up for the position
    1.0
    Residential Youth Worker
    Nov 2024
    Bunbury WA 62301 to 2 years in the role, former employee
    Safe places isn't safe
    The good thingsMoney is okay. Enjoyed supporting children when I was allowed
    The challengesLack of care towards children or staff. Money based and not client centered. Would put staff in unsafe environments which makes it unsafe for children and staff. Changes teams when you are making progress with vulnerable young people. No support after incidents.
    5 people found this helpful
    5.0
    Multiple Roles
    Feb 2024
    Melbourne VIC 3000
    In general, my experience with Safe Place for Children has been predominantly positive. With its emphasis on competitive compensation, job stability, and prospects for individual and career development, this organisation genuinely demonstrates its concern for both its employees and the communities it supports.
    The good thingsAs an employee of Safe Place for Children for the past 3.5 years, I can confidently say that it has been a fulfilling and rewarding journey. Here's why: First and foremost, the company offers a level of stability and financial security that is unparalleled in the sector. Once you grasp how the hours and pay structure work, you realise that Safe Places actually pays better than most organisations in this field. This consistency in weekly wage and job security that you get from being full-time has been a huge relief, allowing me to focus on my work with peace of mind. I started my journey with Safe Places as a youth worker and have worked as a senior youth worker, case manager, and part of the learning and development team. The opportunities for growth and advancement within the company are abundant, and I am grateful for the support and encouragement I've received along the way. Schedule flexibility is one of my favourite aspects of the job. While working long hours might be difficult, especially in our demanding sector, it has helped me. Longer shifts allow for more time off, improving work-life balance. I can work hard when I need to, and I still have more time for my hobbies and interests than most of my friends and family.
    The challengesWorking with young people who are in out-of-home care is undoubtedly tough, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Safe Places values proactive employees who are willing to make a difference, and I've been given numerous opportunities to positively impact the lives of the young people we work with.
    1 person found this helpful
    5.0
    Youth Worker
    Jan 2024
    Wangara WA 60651 to 2 years in the role, current employee
    My Safe Places journey is a rollercoster of fragile smiles and fierce tantrums, witnessing vulnerable spirits soar even under the cloak of darkest nights. Each step forward, a shared breath through clenched fists, reminding me that resilience blooms even in the most desolate corners.
    The good thingsImpact lives: Witness vulnerable kids blossom under your guidance – the reward is unparalleled. No two days alike: Embrace the unexpected, from giggles to challenges, each day a unique adventure. Supportive family: Find community among passionate colleagues – you're never alone in the journey. Grow with purpose: Develop resilience, skills, and a career, all while making a difference. Meaning beyond measure: The smiles, breakthroughs, and connections – priceless rewards for your dedication. It's not for everyone, but if impactful work, a supportive team, and making a real difference resonate with you, then Safe Places might be your calling.
    The challengesEmotional demands: Witnessing trauma, managing setbacks, and navigating challenging behaviors can take their toll. Burnout potential: Long hours and unpredictable schedules can lead to exhaustion. Patience tested: Progress is often slow, requiring resilience and acceptance. Boundary blur: Children may push limits, requiring clear communication and consistent guidance. Secondary trauma: Witnessing struggles can impact your own well-being. Support systems are essential. While demanding, these challenges can be navigated with the right support and commitment. If you thrive on impact and resilience, Safe Places can be an incredibly fulfilling journey.
    5 people found this helpful
    1.0
    Youth Worker
    Dec 2023
    Ashmore QLD 4214Less than 1 year in the role, former employee
    Worst experience hence why only lasting 2 months
    The good thingsThe young people I worked with were great
    The challenges24hr shifts 3-4 times a week Then Constantly being messaged to cover shifts The hours bank is rediculous No work life balance what so ever
    15 people found this helpful
    1.0
    Senior Youth Woker
    Jun 2022
    Less than 1 year in the role, former employee
    Unqualified Amateurs
    The good thingsClassroom training is informative and comprehensive.
    The challengesThe organisation is run by unqualified individuals with very limited management and social work experience. Enormous staff turn over due to a void in leadership skills on all levels - amateurs. Furthermore the business focuses on TCI to obtain placement funding, as opposed to a person centred approach with young people, which should focus on the individual, not the problem.
    25 people found this helpful
    1.0
    Youth Worker
    Mar 2022
    Never to be repeated.
    The good thingsThe salary is ok but you have to work long hours and often with little break to make it. Seeing positive outcomes for the young people we work with.
    The challengesManagement. It seems more about what the organisation is doing for itself than the young people. YW's don't get the support that is claimed to exist and with the constant long hours this leads to burn out and one of the highest turnover rates I have seen in my working life. Management have lost touch with what the organisation was set up for and appears to be more a case of some being able to say look at what i've done when you consider some of the organisation update emails that are sent out.
    15 people found this helpful
    2.0
    Worker
    Mar 2022
    The work itself is great, however resistance to changing environments and lack of flexibility
    The good thingsGreat colleagues and meaningful work
    The challengesI think change needs to be embraced and look at flexibility options
    5 people found this helpful
    1.0
    Case Manager
    Nov 2021
    Less than 1 year in the role, former employee
    Amazing young people, but incompetent management and zero leadership
    The good thingsWorking with the young people who had all been through some really traumatic experiences was very rewarding. You have huge potential to create a space for some really disadvantaged young people to achieve some really incredible things.
    The challengesManagement are generally incompetent and based on my own experience, had no clue about what they were doing, how to manage people or how to provide a therapeutic care environment to the young people placed with the service. The culture of the organisation seems to be about constant recruitment, burning their people out only to churn them through. There is no interest here in creating a positive culture for those that want to do this incredibly challenging and difficult work.
    15 people found this helpful
    4.0
    Youth Worker
    Aug 2021
    Challenging but rewarding
    The good thingsThe young people you work along side with. Good Pay Good Opportunity to progress within the company Colleagues
    The challengesCommunication Shift being changed frequently Not all management (middle) know what they are doing
    2 people found this helpful
    4.0
    Youth Worker
    Aug 2021
    1 to 2 years in the role, current employee
    I'm still here and not leaving soon.
    The good thingsWell payed job. Some kids you can help. Management will try their best to help you out appear very supportive.
    The challengesJason Bourne once said "look at us,.....look at what they make you give.." You will be payed alot...but you will be expected to perform at the higher level. Especally if you go to a senior level Forget your hobbies, or your family. To succeed you will need to put the job first. Kids WILL be full on. You can't save most of them. And many expect you to canter for them.
    1.0
    Manager
    Jun 2021
    5 to 6 years in the role
    Drastic changes required
    The good thingsThe children, despite the challenges they provide are always worth it.
    The challengesOverall the aim of the organisation is not a bad one, they do however have a toxic working environment. There are unrealistic expectations placed on team members around the amount of work that can reasonably be completed in the timeframes required. Processes within the organisation are over complex and often outdated, there is limited support for training beyond basic induction training. The organisation has large amounts of internal politics and the leadership team are out of touch with what employees need and want further down the chain. Unless drastic changes occur in the senior leadership team the organisation has little likelihood for ongoing success. Children are no longer the focus of the organisation which is disappoint to those who are trying to better their lives despite the executive leaders.
    17 people found this helpful
    1.0
    Youth Worker
    Jun 2021
    1 to 2 years in the role
    Totally used and neglected
    The good thingsSome great teamates
    The challengesHighly violent and aggressive clients. Extremely poor unsupportive management.
    7 people found this helpful
    1.0
    Youth worker
    Mar 2021
    3 to 4 years in the role, former employee
    Awful
    The good thingsSupporting some good youth
    The challengesManagement, No support at all
    4 people found this helpful
    5.0
    Youth Worker
    Mar 2021
    1 to 2 years in the role, current employee
    Working at Safe Places for Children has been a highlight in my working career.
    The good thingsIf you are passionate about working with young people in a residential care setting, and working with a supportive team, then consider this company. You will gain experience which will hold you in good stead for the rest of your career.
    The challengesPositions are shift work positions, which offer good work / life balance, but it is important to have the flexibility in your own life to be able to commit to a shift work role.
    4 people found this helpful
    4.0
    Case Manager
    Feb 2021
    1 to 2 years in the role, current employee
    I started as an entry level youth worker and with the support, guidance and training from the SYD team/organisation in a year I have become a Case manager and loving it.
    The good thingsSupportive management, Progression within the company, valued, allows me to have more of a work life balance.
    The challengesIn any residential care work, the pressure of the job such as long hours, stressful situations etc.. can get to anyone. The key with SafePlaces is to speak up to the managers and say you need support, a break, a rest, they are more than happy to support that.
    1.0
    Youth worker
    Jan 2021
    Less than 1 year in the role, former employee
    My experience was dissapointing to say the least.
    The good thingsNone to mention I had a very challenging experience with this company.
    The challengesOver worked un-supported unrealistic expectations The program does not suit alot of there youth
    1 person found this helpful
    2.0
    youth worker
    Jan 2021
    Less than 1 year in the role, former employee
    No work life balance, challenging kids with little support
    The good thingsGood pay Some nice workers
    The challengesWorking long shifts with kids who don't want to engage or are highly aggressive Made to feel bad if you don't pick up extra shifts If you call in sick it is equal to 2 and a half days off as they're 24 hour shifts No work life balance at all
    8 people found this helpful
    2.0
    Youth Worker
    Sep 2020
    3 to 4 years in the role, former employee
    I have worked at safe places for 3 years, it was good in the beginning then the management changed and went down hill.
    The good thingsTravel allowance and able to travel interstate
    The challengesNo support from the management
    4 people found this helpful
    5.0
    Quality and Systems Manager
    Sep 2020
    1 to 2 years in the role, current employee
    If you want to actually make a difference in young people's lives, you need to work here.
    The good thingsAlways the opportunity to develop. You actually get to make a difference in young people's lives here.
    The challengesThe young people are in crisis and display extremely challenging behaviours. You have to be passionate to stay in this line of work.
    4 people found this helpful
    5.0
    Manager
    Jul 2020
    7 to 8 years in the role, current employee
    have thoroughly enjoyed working, has been the most supportive workplace i have worked in
    The good thingsVery supportive, have found all my supervisors have done the role before me, so can give me good advise and support where needed.
    The challengesCan be long days, takes a while to see the progress of the YP
    2 people found this helpful
    4.0
    Youth worker
    Jul 2020
    1 to 2 years in the role, current employee
    Great experience so far
    The good thingsThe Brisbane team support from YW to CM and other management. Also the amazing YP we support and the learnings we gain from them.
    The challengesYouth work can be tiring especially managing high needs behaviours (but that's part of the role)
    4.0
    Case Manager
    Jul 2020
    3 to 4 years in the role, current employee
    Have progressed from frontline youth work to a management position within the organisation. Great job satisfaction and further opportunities for development ongoing.
    The good thingsWork is rewarding and management are supportive of the challenges within the role
    The challengesHard to keep motivated with challenging young people
    5.0
    Quality Manager
    Jul 2020
    5 to 6 years in the role, current employee
    A supportive and enthusiastic team to work with
    The good thingsThe WA management team are amazing and very supportive. The Salary Packaging opportunities are great and allow you to earn much more.
    The challengesYouth Work in general can be very challenging
    1 person found this helpful
    4.0
    Youth Worker
    Jul 2020
    1 to 2 years in the role, current employee
    Love my job!
    The good thingsDefinitely the best Residential Care in Townsville to work for in terms of professionalism and overall standards. Case managers are supportive and approachable.
    The challengesYoung people can be very challenging, especially when working alone.
    4 people found this helpful
    Company Reviews published on our site are the views and opinions of their authors and do not represent the views and opinions of SEEK or its personnel. SEEK does not verify the truth or accuracy of any reviews and does not adopt or endorse any of the comments posted. SEEK posts reviews for what they are worth and for informational purposes only to assist candidates to find employment.
    Reviews by location
    All Brisbane QLDAll Gold Coast QLDAll Melbourne VICAll Perth WABunbury & South West WA