First Step is seeking a compassionate, skilled and motivated Practice Nurse to join our
multidisciplinary clinical team. Working within our integrated primary health model, the
Practice Nurse provides high-quality, trauma-informed and person-centred nursing care to
people experiencing alcohol and other drug use, mental health concerns, and other complex
health needs. The role combines direct clinical care, care coordination, health promotion and
collaboration with a broad range of health professionals to improve health outcomes and
reduce barriers to care. This is an opportunity to work in a highly regarded, innovative service
that places dignity, respect and recovery at the centre of everything it does.
About First Step
First Step is a centre for integrated care – medical, mental health and substance use – with an
embedded community legal service. Operating in inner Melbourne, we deliver more than 14,000
bulk-billed or otherwise funded appointments each year to over 1,600 people. Our
multidisciplinary team includes doctors, psychologists, nurses, peers, psychiatrists, care
coordinators, lawyers and social workers, working side-by-side to support people with co-
occurring needs such as substance use, trauma and mental distress.
We help people navigate complex systems by taking on the responsibility for care coordination,
building trust, promoting self-agency, and supporting stability and connection. Recognised by
the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, First Step is a leader in integrated,
whole-of-life care. Services are provided free of charge, from one team, in one place.
Skills, Qualifications and Experience
Essential skills and experience
- Skilled in conducting clinical assessments and review, liaising with other health providers, and
providing secondary consultation with other program sta where required
- Experience coordinating the development, implementation and ongoing review of clinical
assessment and care planning
- Ability to review and respond promptly, e ectively and appropriately to changes in client's
health status
- Able to work closely with the multi-disciplinary team, particularly GPs and mental health
practitioners, to resolve or report on patients’ needs or medical issues
- Skilled in performing routine diagnostic checks (monitor pulse, blood pressure and
temperature) and general nursing duties as instructed by the clinical team
- Highly skilled at monitoring and recording a patient’s condition and document care provided
- Attendance and participation in case conferences and clinical review meetings;
- Administering vaccinations
- Providing pathology services
- Safe storage, documentation and administration of controlled medicines
- Controlling and managing medical stock levels
