This is a permanent full time vacancy.
About the role
In recognition of the unique needs of young people, Corrective Services established the Young People Directorate in mid 2024. This Directorate is responsible for providing youth justice services in the community and managing youth detention facilities. Since becoming a stand-alone directorate, the Young People Directorate have commenced the implementation of an enhanced model of care. This model reflects best practice in Youth Justice and focuses on rehabilitation through a trauma-informed, therapeutic approach. Some initiatives under this model of care so far include:
- The establishment of the Neurodevelopmental and Mental Health Service in custody. This team works alongside Youth Justice Psychological Services and includes neuropsychologists, a psychiatrist, a speech pathologist, paediatric services and increased access to clinical nurse specialists;
- The development of a new Crises Care Unit at Banksia Hill Detention Centre, which will offer a trauma-informed, health-led unit for particularly vulnerable young people;
- Increased focus on cultural safety and security including the creation of an Aboriginal Services Unit, establishment of an Aboriginal Elders and Leaders Cultural Mentoring program, cultural programs and activities facilitated by Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs). Along with co-design a cultural security framework with one of our key partners, the Council of Aboriginal Services Western Australia (CASWA), to drive positive change for Aboriginal young people, their families, kin and the community.
The Principal Psychologist (Custody) position is responsible for the clinical and managerial oversight of a team of 10 psychologists (Specified Calling 2 and 3). In addition, as a key member of the Senior Management Team in youth detention, the Principal Psychologist is influential in psychologically informing practices and policies to facilitate positive outcomes for young people in our care, and continue to support the implementation of the Model of Care. We are looking for applicants who are passionate about supporting positive change at an individual and systems level
Eligibility
Qualifications - A post graduate Masters/Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology, Counselling Psychology or Forensic Psychology AND Full registration with the Psychologists Board of Australia, with Endorsement in Clinical, Counselling or Forensic Psychology.
Permanent positions – To be eligible for appointment to permanent positions in the West Australian Public Sector you must be an Australian citizen or have permanent resident status in Australia.
WWC positions – In accordance with the National Child Safety Principles, people who work directly with children and young people, you must have a current Working with Children Check or be able to successfully apply for one to be eligible for appointment to this position.
About you
We are seeking an experienced psychologist, who is passionate and motivated to support ongoing change and enhancements in youth detention.
About us
In recognition of the unique needs of young people, Corrective Services established the Young People Directorate in mid 2024. This Directorate is responsible for providing youth justice services in the community and managing youth detention facilities. Since becoming a stand-alone directorate, the Young People Directorate have commenced the implementation of an enhanced model of care. This model reflects best practice in Youth Justice and focuses on rehabilitation through a trauma-informed, therapeutic approach.
How to apply
To find out more about this opportunity and to apply for this position, click on the link 390007
Applications must be received before Friday, 3 October 2025 at 4.30pm.
Contact Details Dr Angela Cooney - 0417 984 353