Sean Sweeney

In my role, I excel at conducting comprehensive risk assessments and analyses by gathering information from various sources and applying professional judgment to identify, articulate, and plan for potential risks. I leverage these insights to develop effective case plans and lead the management and review of casework within DFFH and across other agencies. I employ evidence-based frameworks to investigate issues, understand their root causes, and assess their implications. Additionally, I use standardised reporting frameworks to document case data and care solutions, while also engaging in reflective practice to continuously evaluate and improve my approach.

My approach is child-centred and family-focused, prioritizing the child while involving the family and their social network to deliver timely, proactive solutions. I actively engage in collaboration, consulting and co-designing solutions with children, their families, other practitioners, teams, agencies, services, and the community to achieve the best possible outcomes for children and families. Additionally, I prioritize knowledge sharing, ensuring that critical information is exchanged across the system—both internally and externally—so that there is a shared understanding and prompt, appropriate action for clients.

I apply problem-solving skills by integrating knowledge and internal insights with leading practices and research to address challenges effectively. My practice is culturally informed, focusing on the child within the context of their family and considering the perspectives of all stakeholders based on their cultural backgrounds. I make effective use of business technologies, systems, procedures, and financial and political acumen to achieve the best outcomes for clients. I also collaborate with colleagues and key stakeholders to evaluate programs, identify opportunities, develop solutions, and overcome barriers to continuously improve program outcomes.

I demonstrate practice leadership by guiding children, families, and stakeholders through child protection assessments and decision-making in an open, informed, proactive, and assertive manner. I embrace collective leadership by working collaboratively with colleagues to foster a strong leadership team and provide staff with a sense of purpose and value. I am committed to developing others by coaching, guiding, and sharing knowledge to encourage learning and reflection among my colleagues. Additionally, I take on a system leadership role and aim to foster effective relationships within DFFH and across other systems to create a shared purpose, enhance standards, and challenge the status quo.

In my daily practice, I possess a strong understanding of child development, which allows me to identify the normal developmental stages of a child’s life and apply attachment and trauma theories to Child Protection work. I can assess and articulate the risks children face, particularly those related to abuse or neglect, and effectively communicate these risks both verbally and in writing to a range of stakeholders, including parents, children, and other professionals. My practice is guided by a deep understanding of the legislative and statutory framework, particularly the Child Youth and Families Act (2005), which I consistently integrate into my work to ensure that I uphold the core responsibilities and principles set out in the Act.

I am also well-versed in working with families impacted by substance abuse and family violence, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the legislative, policy, and practice requirements for each. This knowledge enables me to provide effective and informed support to these families, ensuring that interventions are appropriate and respectful of their unique circumstances. Additionally, I approach my work with Aboriginal children and families with cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the specific legislative, policy, and practice requirements that pertain to these communities. My approach to case practice and decision-making is informed by these guidelines, allowing me to make culturally competent decisions that promote the well-being of Aboriginal children and families.

Operating in a fast-paced and changing environment is a key aspect of my role, and I consistently deliver results while adapting to ambiguity and change. I am confident in preparing for court, initiating, preparing, and presenting cases in Children’s Court and other tribunals. My communication skills are a vital part of my practice; I effectively convey risk-related concepts in a clear and engaging way, ensuring I meet the needs of my audience, whether it's clients or colleagues. I also welcome constructive feedback and always seek to understand others’ perspectives. In written communication, I prepare complex briefs, letters, emails, and reports with clarity and precision, ensuring that they meet the necessary standards, are grammatically correct, and are tailored to achieve their intended purpose.

In my role, I applied a thorough understanding of child development, which allowed me to identify the typical stages of growth in a child’s life. I was well-versed in attachment and trauma theories, and I integrated these frameworks into my child protection practice to assess and respond to the needs of children effectively. I was skilled at identifying risks to children, particularly those related to abuse or neglect, and I could clearly articulate these risks both verbally and in writing to a wide range of stakeholders, including parents, children, and other professionals involved in the case. My practice was firmly grounded in the legislative and statutory framework, particularly the Child Youth and Families Act (2005), and I ensured that my work consistently reflected the core responsibilities and principles outlined in this legislation.

I worked confidently with families affected by drug and alcohol abuse, applying my knowledge of the relevant legislative, policy, and practice requirements to provide informed support and interventions. I was also adept at working with families impacted by family violence, ensuring that my practice was sensitive to the specific needs of these families while adhering to established legal and policy frameworks. My practice with Aboriginal children and families was underpinned by an understanding of the legislative, policy, and cultural requirements that guided my decision-making and case practice, ensuring that I approached these cases with cultural competence and respect for community values and traditions.

Operating effectively in a fast-paced and changing environment was central to my work. I was able to remain focused and deliver positive outcomes even in situations marked by ambiguity and rapid change. I was confident in preparing and presenting cases in court, including in Children’s Court and other tribunals, ensuring that I was well-prepared and capable of representing the best interests of children and families. In communication, I was able to clearly convey risk-related concepts, tailoring my message to meet the needs of different audiences, whether they be clients or colleagues. I welcomed constructive feedback and made it a priority to see situations from others’ perspectives to ensure understanding. Additionally, I prepared written reports, briefs, and other communications that were clear, concise, and professionally presented, ensuring they effectively conveyed the necessary information and met the needs of their intended audience.