This is a Social Worker Level 5 - Head of Department - Coffs Harbour role with NSW Health based in Coffs Harbour, NSW, AU NSW Health Role Seniority - senior More about the Social Worker Level 5 - Head of Department - Coffs Harbour role at NSW Health Employment Type: Permanent Full Time Position Classification: Social Worker Level 5 Remuneration: $135,884 - $139,188 Hours Per Week: 38 Requisition ID: REQ633011 Advertising Closes: 16 February 2026 Employment with Mid North Coast LHD requires candidates to hold a valid authority to work in Australia (Aust Work Rights Visa). About The Role This role is responsible for the clinical, operational and strategic management of the Social Work Department, providing professional leadership, direction and accountability for staff across multiple service areas. The position represents Social Work at local, Network and District levels, working collaboratively to ensure effective service planning, delivery and integration. The role ensures the provision of a high quality Social Work service through the recruitment, orientation and ongoing support of professional staff, as well as the delivery of regular supervision, performance appraisal and performance management. It promotes effective team functioning, professional education and development, including student supervision opportunities, and supports continuous quality improvement initiatives. The position contributes to departmental, organisational and network planning activities, manages and reviews the Social Work budget, and identifies and reports risks associated with service demand and capacity, including the development of briefs for service enhancement funding. It also identifies high social risk client groups, determines service priorities and, where appropriate, provides direct clinical services. The role actively promotes patient safety, clinical quality and innovation to support the best possible outcomes for patients and clients. This is a Full Time Permanent role based in Coffs Harbour. About You You hold a tertiary qualification in Social Work, or an equivalent qualification, that provides eligibility for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and you can bring demonstrated experience in a Department Head or team leadership role, with proven capability in human resource management, staff supervision and professional accountability across diverse service areas. You possess extensive clinical skills and expertise across a range of Social Work settings and can demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, enabling effective engagement at all organisational levels. You have a strong understanding of relevant legislative requirements and Ministry of Health policies and procedures, and a demonstrated capacity to liaise, negotiate and advocate for the provision and enhancement of Social Work services at local, network and District levels. Diversity and Inclusion lies at the heart of how we recruit Mid North Coast Local Health District is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects and understands the community we serve. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace culture where everyone feels respected, valued and that they belong. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from candidates of all cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. We encourage you to reach out if you require any adjustments or assistance during the recruitment process to ensure you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Please contact our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Manager. This is a Category A position. Recommended applicants will be reviewed for compliance with NSW Health policy directive for Category A positions prior to offer. All new employees must agree to comply with the requirements outlined under the General questions section at Occupational assessment screening and vaccination - FAQ Salary will be accordance with NSW Health State Awards for the advertised classification/s. These awards are available at http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/careers/conditions/pages/default.aspx. Are you interested in moving to the Mid North Coast? Learn more at The Welcome Experience. A free service supporting businesses, essential workers and their families who are considering moving or have made the move to regional NSW. A TALENT POOL MAY BE CREATED FOR FUTURE ROLES AND WILL REMAIN VALID FOR 18 MONTHS. Need more information? Click here for the Position Description Find out more about applying for this position For role related queries or questions contact Kate Meredith on Kate.Meredith1@health.nsw.gov.au For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion enquiries, please contact the District Manager - MNCLHD-Inclusion@health.nsw.gov.au 'Get to know our Health District' - MNCLHD Code of Ethics and Conduct for NSW Government Sector Employees Mid North Coast LHD is committed to implementing the child safe standards. For more information, please click here Child Safe Standards Before we jump into the responsibilities of the role. No matter what you come in knowing, you’ll be learning new things all the time and the NSW Health team will be there to support your growth. Please consider applying even if you don't meet 100% of what’s outlined Key Responsibilities Managing the Social Work Department Providing professional leadership Contributing to planning activities Key Strengths Tertiary qualification in Social Work Clinical skills and expertise Interpersonal and communication skills Human resource management Team leadership Knowledge of legislative requirements A Final Note: This is a role with NSW Health not with Hatch.