Support recovery. Influence outcomes. Change lives through treatment and care.
Employment Type: Permanent Full Time and Part Time Opportunities
Position Classification: Counsellor Level 1/2, Occupational Therapist Level 1/2, Psychologist, Registered Nurse, Social Worker Level 1/2
Remuneration: $74,317.94 - $117,755.00 per annum + 12% Super + Salary Packaging
Hours Per Week: 38
Requisition ID: REQ645466
Location: Newcastle Community Health
Applications Close: Tuesday, 24th March 2026
Be part of a program that connects health and justice to create better futures.
Where You'll Be Working
You will be part of the MERIT (Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment) program, working within the Court Diversion stream of Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services (DACS). The program supports people with drug and alcohol concerns who have entered the justice system, providing early intervention and treatment pathways that improve health and social outcomes.
You'll join a supportive multidisciplinary team with a wide range of clinical backgrounds and experience. The team works closely with the local court, health services, and community providers to deliver coordinated care and support clients on their recovery journey.
This position is based at Newcastle Community Health, conveniently located close to public transport, schools and local amenities.
About the Role
In this role you will provide clinical counselling and case management to clients referred through the MERIT program. Working in a dynamic and time-sensitive environment, you will assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, and support them through evidence-based drug and alcohol interventions.
Key aspects of the role include:
* Conducting comprehensive assessments and developing case formulations
* Providing counselling and therapeutic interventions
* Coordinating referrals and linking clients with appropriate services
* Developing and monitoring treatment plans
* Preparing court reports and maintaining accurate clinical documentation
* Working collaboratively with courts, health professionals and community services
This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives while supporting their engagement in treatment and recovery.
About You
You are a compassionate and adaptable clinician with experience in drug and alcohol practice and client-centred care. You bring strong assessment and counselling skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities within a fast-paced environment.
You will also demonstrate:
* Experience delivering evidence-based drug and alcohol interventions
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing
* The ability to analyse complex situations and develop practical solutions
* Well-developed organisation and time management skills
* A commitment to ethical practice, cultural respect, and continuous learning
* The ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
Support
You will be supported through clinical supervision, experienced colleagues, and leadership from your line manager, along with access to ongoing learning through NSW Health eLearning and professional development opportunities.
Requirements
* Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, Counselling, Occupational Therapy, or another qualification deemed equivalent by the employer that provides eligibility for membership of the relevant professional association or AHPRA registration where applicable.
* Eligible to drive in NSW and willing to travel for work purposes, which may include occasional longer distances.
What we can offer:
At Hunter New England Health, enjoy a career where you're challenged by interesting work and surrounded by spectacular locations. You'll contribute to the team enriching health in millions of ways every day. On top of this we also offer:
* Monthly Allocated Days Off (for full-time employees)
* 4 weeks annual leave (pro-rata for part time employees)
* Paid parental leave (for eligible employees) - giving you the opportunity for true Worklife balance
* Salary packaging options - up to $11,600 plus novated leasing
* Fitness Passport for health and well-being - discounted gym options for you and your family
* Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family members
Additional information
* An eligibility list will be created for future permanent full or part time vacancies.
* This position is full time; however, part time/job share arrangements may also be considered.
* To be eligible for permanent employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport. Employment of a temporary visa holder may only occur if no suitable local candidate is identified for the position; in this instance, you may only be offered employment in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa.
* 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.
Demonstrated capacity to provide drug and alcohol practice including comprehensive assessment, intervention, evidence-based counselling models of care and ability to apply case management principles.
Demonstrated ability to analyse problems, set priorities and apply a range of options to develop solutions.
Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team. Demonstrated application of professional and ethical boundaries when working with complex situations and minimal supervision.
Need more information?
1) Click here for the Position Description
2) Find out more about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Leeona Moxey on
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:
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.
Hunter New England Health is dedicated to fostering a child-safe environment that respects and upholds the rights of children and young people, aligned with NSW Health's commitment to implementing the Child Safe Standards. We aim to ensure that children and young people feel safe, supported, and included in their care. All current and prospective staff are expected to prioritise the safety, welfare, and well-being of children and young people, actively working to protect them from harm and abuse.
At Hunter New England Local Health District, we are an inclusive employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Our commitment to a workforce that reflects the community we care for is essential for delivering the highest quality healthcare to our community. We encourage people with diverse lived experiences to apply. If you require any accommodations or adjustments to the recruitment process please let us know when you apply or at any stage of the process. We will work with you to meet your needs and create the best possible experience. Please contact for confidential support.
NSW Health acknowledges the people of the many traditional countries and language groups of New South Wales. It acknowledges the wisdom of Elders past and present, and pays respect to all Aboriginal communities of today.
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