Help change lives through evidence-based alcohol and drug care within the justice system, supported by a collaborative multidisciplinary team.
Remuneration: $81,748 – $125,507 per annum (dependent on qualifications) + superannuation + salary packaging
Location: Newcastle Community Health Service | Awabakal Country
Employment Type: Temporary Full Time – Until July 2027
Position Classification: Counsellor Level 3, Occupational Therapist Level 3, Social Worker Level 3, Psychologist, Registered Nurse
Hours Per Week: 32
Requisition ID: REQ688346
Applications Close: Monday 31st August 2026
Whilst this position is open to all individuals, it is targeted to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people under section 21 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply and consideration will be given to suitable Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants to promote equal or improved access. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants must demonstrate Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status in addition to addressing the selection criterion.
About the role:
You will be responsible for attending court and providing care and clinical advice in accordance with guidelines, conducting assessments, delivering evidence based - best practice knowledge, and leading fellow colleagues where appropriate. Working both collaboratively with your team, and individually, you will ensure professional responsibilities are met and engage in regular professional development and education sessions to maintain your skillset.
You will engage in orientation upon commencement of the role and be supported to participate in further training and professional development that you or your line manager sees fit. You will be further supported by your fellow colleagues of the MERIT team, as well as your Direct Line Manager, Allied Health Lead, Clinical Lead for MERIT NENW, District Manager and the wider DACS community.
Where you’ll be working:
The successful applicant will be a part of the wider multidisciplinary MERIT Team, which includes Nurses, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, Counsellors, Psychologists and Administration Staff. The MERIT Service provides counselling and case management, as well as referrals, to clients that are identified as having a drug or alcohol dependency and are involved with the criminal justice system.
About you:
Our ideal candidate will:
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Have exceptional time management skills
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Be able to work in a team environment and promote professional expertise
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Understand the importance of confidentiality
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Be capable in both verbal and written communication techniques
Requirements:
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Must hold a degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counselling, Occupational Therapy or Nursing which provides either eligibility for membership of the relevant professional association or full registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
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Social Workers, Occupational Therapists and Counsellors must have 3 years full time equivalent experience.
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Eligible to drive in NSW and the ability and willingness to travel for work purposes, which may involve driving long distances.
What we offer
At Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD), enjoy a career where you're challenged by interesting work and surrounded by spectacular locations. Join the team enriching health in millions of ways every day:
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Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero
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Proximity to shopping and other services
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ADO's each month (for full time employees)
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Salary packaging options
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Fitness Passport
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family members
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Opportunity to work and collaborate with a range of non-clinical and clinical professionals
Additional Information:
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To be eligible for employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport, or hold an appropriate visa that allows you to live and work in Australia. Employment of a temporary visa holder will only be offered in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa.
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An eligibility list will be created for future temporary full or part time vacancies.
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We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.
How to apply:
Click apply online, submit your information and resume, and address the criteria listed below providing examples that demonstrate your ability.
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Comprehensive understanding or experience in drug and alcohol practice including comprehensive assessment, care planning, intervention, and evidence based counselling models of care and ability to apply case management principles.
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Demonstrated ability to work as a senior clinician in a multi-disciplinary team demonstrating application of professional and ethical boundaries when working with complex situations.
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Awareness of cultural issues and an ability to interact with people from a diverse range of backgrounds, providing a non-judgmental and empathetic approach to Drug and Alcohol clients.
Need more information?
about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Leeona Moxey on [email protected]
Information for Applicants:
Applicants will be assessed against the essential requirements and selection criteria contained within the position description (link below). For assistance addressing selection criteria visit: https://bit.ly/3vL5fq2
Stepping Up Website is a resource designed to help indigenous job applicants apply for positions in NSW Health. For more information, please visit: https://bit.ly/HNEHealthSteppingUp
This is a Category A position. Recommended applicants will be reviewed for compliance with NSW Health policy directive PD2024_015: Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specified Infectious Diseases for Category A positions prior to offer. All new employees must agree to comply with the requirements outlined in the policy.
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