Make a meaningful difference in the lives of people experiencing substance use challenges while working within a supportive and collaborative multidisciplinary team.
Employment Type: Permanent Part Time
Position Classification: Counsellor Lvl 1/2, Psychologist, Registered Nurse, Social Worker Level 1/2
Remuneration: $37.48 - $60.86 per hour (dependent on qualifications) + super + salary packaging
Hours Per Week: 24
Requisition ID: REQ644746
Location: The Maitland Hospital
Applications Close: Thursday, 19 March 2026
Hunter New England Local Health District Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services provides compassionate, person-centred support to individuals and families across the region. As part of our community counselling service, you will join a dedicated team committed to improving health and wellbeing outcomes for people navigating drug and alcohol concerns.
This role will be primarily based at the Maitland Hospital, with travel required to surrounding communities across the local government area as service needs arise.
Our team culture is built on collaboration, respect, and genuine care. We value each team member's expertise and actively support professional development through mentoring, reflective practice, and shared learning.
About the Role
As a Drug and Alcohol Community Counsellor, you will provide high-quality clinical support to individuals seeking help for substance use concerns. Key responsibilities include:
* Conducting comprehensive assessments for clients seeking support for drug and alcohol use
* Developing individualised treatment and care plans aligned with client goals
* Delivering structured, evidence-based counselling (typically on a weekly basis)
* Coordinating referrals and collaborating with internal and external services
* Supporting clients to achieve improved health, wellbeing, and recovery outcomes
This is a rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same. You will have the opportunity to work autonomously while remaining closely connected to a multidisciplinary team that values collaboration and shared purpose.
About You
To succeed in this role, you will bring:
* Demonstrated knowledge and competence in delivering evidence-based drug and alcohol interventions
* Strong clinical documentation skills, including the ability to complete accurate and timely case notes
* The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment
* Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
* Confidence managing complex client situations and challenging behaviours with empathy and professionalism
Support and Development
You will be well supported within the Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services (DACS) team through:
* Guidance from your Line Manager and Allied Health Lead
* Collaboration with experienced multidisciplinary colleagues
* Comprehensive orientation upon commencement
* Ongoing opportunities for professional development and learning
If you are passionate about supporting individuals affected by substance use and value working in a collaborative healthcare environment, we encourage you to apply and join our team.
What we can offer you
At Hunter New England Health 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:
* Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero
* 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
Requirements
* Must hold a degree in Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, Counselling, or another qualification deemed equivalent by the employer, providing eligibility for membership with the relevant professional association and full registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), where applicable.
Must hold a current driver's licence valid in NSW and demonstrate the ability and willingness to travel for work purposes, which may involve driving long distances.
Additional Information
* An eligibility list will be created for future permanent and temporary part time vacancies.
* 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.
* We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.
* 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.
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 Kellie Collinson 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: 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.
Salary Packaging: is beneficial to most Hunter New England Health employees and may increase your take-home pay! Salary package a range of personal expenses including novated motor vehicle leases, relocation expenses, and HECS/HELP debt. Find out more by contacting SalaryPackagingPLUS! via or 1300 40 25 23.
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.
Hunter New England Health employees may be eligible for a range of benefits such as allocated days off (ADO) for full time employees, long service leave, paid maternity leave, and salary packaging options including meal expenses.
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