#RuralHealthIncentive
Employment Type: Temporary Full Time (until 30 June 2027)
Position Classification: Clinical Nurse Consultant Grade 1, Clinical Psychologist, Occupational Therapist Level 4, Psychologist, Senior Psychologist, Social Worker Level 4, Welfare Officer Level 4
Remuneration: $80,452.00 - $142,444.00 pa (+ superannuation + salary packaging options) + NSW Health – Western NSW LHD Incentives (conditions apply and may be pro-rata'd to your contracted or ordinary working hours – to find out more, visit Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme)
Location: Dubbo, Bourke, Brewarrina NSW – Find out more
Hours Per Week: 38
Applications Close: 1 July 2026 – 11:59pm
Senior Clinician – Drug & Alcohol – Magistrates Early Referral into Treatment (MERIT) Program – Incentives Offered
Mental Health, Drug & Alcohol
About the role
The MERIT (Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment) program is a court based program in New South Wales, that provides access to alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment services for individuals facing charges in Local Courts. MERIT aims to intervene in the cycle of drug use and crime by addressing the underlying health and social issues that may lead individuals into contact with the legal system.
Senior Health Clinicians play a vital role in this program by providing clinical expertise, assessment, and treatment planning for participants. They collaborate with other MERIT team members, legal professionals, and external service providers to ensure coordinated and effective care, whilst assessing participants needs, to develop individualised treatment plans and provide ongoing clinical support.
The key skills required for this role include; conducting comprehensive assessments - implement evidence-based, person-centred treatment plans, case coordination – skills to manage complex cases that involve Justice, Health, Housing etc), knowledge of the criminal justice system, especially therapeutic jurisprudence and diversion programs, Knowledge of – AOD disorders, Comorbidities and commitment to reflective practice, resilience and adaptability and ethical practice.
The team is made up of Clinical Lead, Aboriginal Health Practitioner, Administration, and Drug and Alcohol Clinicians. You will be working alongside likeminded staff who are investing in assisting people who have complex Drug and Alcohol issues and addressing the many complexities that come with addictions.
This position is Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm.
The successful applicant will maintain strong connections with the Senior Drug & Alcohol Team across Dubbo and the broader Western NSW LHD region, ensuring alignment with best practices and regional priorities. These linkages support collaborative problem-solving and knowledge sharing across services.
Performance development is supported through regular catchups and the implementation of a tailored training matrix. This matrix identifies individual and team learning needs, guiding professional development and enhancing service delivery capacity. By investing in our workforce, we ensure our team remains responsive, skilled, and equipped to meet the complex needs of our clients.
To find out more about the role click to view the Position Description
Helping you Move to Western NSW
The Welcome Experience is a free NSW Government service supporting workers (and their families) who have accepted a job with Western NSW LHD in most locations. The service helps with housing, schooling, partner work and community connections. Find out more at The Welcome Experience
A career with Western NSW means you can challenge yourself, make an impact and shape the future of rural health. To explore the benefits of a career in our Local Health District, visit the WNSWLHD website.
To apply for this role:
Click ‘Apply’
Create a profile in the Recruitment & Onboarding (ROB) System or sign in using your existing login
Upload your current resume
Answer the selection criteria
Role-related enquiries: Please contact Jenny Taylor on 02 6881 4000 or at [email protected] for more information.
Additional information for applicants:
All suitably qualified Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply for this position. This is a targeted position under GSE Rule 26. Where possible, affirmative action will be applied to support employment of eligible persons.
This recruitment may be used to create an Eligibility List for similar roles in the future (ongoing or temporary).
Western NSW LHD can provide reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Applicants who provide information on an injury, health condition, or disability in their pre-employment forms will receive a functional assessment from our Risk Management Unit (RMU). This review will consider the applicant’s needs and what reasonable adjustments and workplace supports are available to support their employment journey.
Western NSW LHD is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child in our care. All staff in WNSWLHD are required to provide a safe and supportive environment for children, while working to protect them from harm and abuse. For more information on the Child Safety Standards, visit: NSW Government - Office of Children's Guardian
Western NSW is committed to creating a safe and accessible workplace that promotes diversity, inclusion and belonging. As a vibrant and diverse region, rich in community and culture, we welcome applications from all people to build a respectful workplace dedicated to delivering the best health outcomes for our community.
To find out more about the remuneration and conditions, visit NSW Public Health System Awards
For more information, visit a Guide to Employment with WNSWLHD
