Her Case Manager | Budget Breakdown

Miss. O..., a 24 year old case manager in re-integration programs shared with us her top tips for networking, building great connections and leveraging your networks for success.

1) Do you have any advise for others looking to enter or grow within the industry?

If you are at university, I would recommend engaging in networking activities and building relationships with individuals already in the industry. I would also recommend developing a healthy professional relationship with your teaching team (Lecturers and Tutors) as some work within the industry; or have good connections they can link you up with. 

Seek to complete an internship or undertake a volunteer role as that could lead to potential employment. 

2) What Industry do you work in?

Corrections & Reintegration Programs

3) How did you land your first job within the industry?

I landed my first job as a Case Manager in Queensland Corrections (Probation and Parole), via networking and building relationships with post-graduate students already in the field. 

Without consulting me, one of my connections made a post about me on LinkedIn; outlining I was in my final trimester of university, my work ethic, and passion to work within the Criminal Justice System. 

A District Manager from Queensland Corrections responded and requested I email my resume through to her. This was in early April; I emailed my resume, then attempted to follow up twice, as I did not hear back from her. 

I continued to seek other employment, and by June, I had completed a few Graduate Program applications. 

Two weeks prior to my graduation ceremony, I was contacted by Inala Community Corrections District Manager (however I was confused as I did not make an application), she advised my resume was forwarded to her by another DM, and invited me for an interview, where I was offered a PO2 position to start one week after I had formally graduated. 

4) Salary, budget & your biggest expense

Monthly Salary: $3 500 

Breakdown of Budget: 

I relocated to Melbourne in 2020; and with that came an expensive lifestyle!

My rent is $1300, plus an additional $260 for bills (electricity, interest, groceries, patrol, phone, water etc.)

I put around $1200 in my savings; and I withdraw $300 to have as cash in hand for social activities (Pre-COVID 19), and whatever else I want.

I generally set aside about 15% of my salary for contributions, tithes/offerings (because I am a Church Girl!!), and charity (Champion Australia). 

Current biggest expense: Rent! 

5) What motivates you?

The desire to make my mother proud and make her feel like her sacrifices and investments in life were not in vain. 

5) Do you have any advise for others looking to enter or grow within the industry?

If you are at university, I would recommend engaging in networking activities and building relationships with individuals already in the industry. I would also recommend developing a healthy professional relationship with your teaching team (Lecturers and Tutors) as some work within the industry; or have good connections they can link you up with. 

Seek to complete an internship or undertake a volunteer role as that could lead to potential employment.