Lead change at the intersection of mental health and drug and alcohol care – where your expertise will make a real difference across ISLHD.
$116,639.98 – $120,469.88 per annum + 12% super & salary packaging | Various: Part-time & Full-time opportunities available | Location: Various across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven District | REQ634392 | Applications close: 4 February 2026
Join us in shaping healthier futures. Together we can do more.
As a Clinical Nurse Specialist in the Dual Diagnosis Program, you will work at the cutting edge of integrated mental health and drug and alcohol care within ISLHD Mental Health Facilities. Each day, you will assist consumers with complex co-occurring conditions, support advanced assessments, targeted brief interventions, harm minimisation strategies, and expert advice on intoxication, withdrawal, and opioid substitution therapies. You will be a trusted clinical leader and mentor, supporting and upskilling nursing and multidisciplinary teams through consultation, education, and shared decision-making. With a high level of professional autonomy, you will help shape service development, drive quality improvement initiatives, and advance specialist nursing practice to improve outcomes for consumers, families, and staff.
The Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) team work for the greater good through an open, flexible and dynamic, strengths-based approach. We listen to understand, not label. We are an inclusive and committed team where staff are encouraged to bring their whole self to work and are proud that our team is as diverse as the vibrant communities we support.
For more information and to view the position classification, see the Position Descriptionhere.
A little about us.
From Helensburgh in the north to North Durras in the south, ISLHD covers an area of 5,687 square kms. That's 5,687 square kms of beautiful beaches, coastal cycling tracks, lush rainforests, incredible bushwalks and friendly people. The region is also host to many annual food, wine and arts festivals and events.
ISLHD operates seven hospital sites, employ over 8,500 staff and provide community health services across 58 locations. Commute times are short, childcare and schooling options are plentiful, and Sydney and Canberra are close by.
Benefits of working with ISLHD.
We understand that balancing career aspirations with the demand of the everyday, as well as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, can be a challenge. To help with this, we offer a range of benefits which include:
* Allocated Days Off (ADO) - once a month take a paid day off (eligible full-time employees)
* Salary packaging - less tax and more take-home pay
* Novated leasing - lease a car and pay for all running costs out of your pre-taxed salary (eligible full-time employees)
* Fitness Passport - discounted gym membership that both you and your family can enjoy (eligible employees)
* Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - free confidential and professional assistance for staff and their families
* Career progression, professional development and secondment opportunities
* Flexible work practices
* Working as part of a newly established service with ability to be involved in shaping the service with freedom to innovate and make decisions within your role.
* Working in a highly skilled, supportive and collaborative multidisciplinary team environment
* Focus on Staff Wellbeing – Supportive initiatives and resources to maintain mental health and overall wellbeing
* Recognition and Reward Programs – Celebrate achievements and contributions
* Inclusive and Diverse Workplace – Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
Apply now by reading the Position Description, then, using our online portal, submit a resume and answer the targeted questions within the application. In addition, please note you must have the following essential requirements:
* Applicable vaccination requirements for a Category A role.
* Working With Children Check (WWCC)
* Current AHPRA Registration
* Post-registration qualification in Drug and Alcohol and/or Mental Health and at least 3 years' experience working in Drug & Alcohol and/or Mental Health or such other qualifications or equivalent experience deemed appropriate.
* Valid NSW Drivers Licence
Opportunity for flexible work practices or part-time, job share may be considered.
ISLHD is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
ISLHD 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 wellbeing of children and young people, actively working to protect them from harm and abuse.
Need more information or help applying?
* Visit the ISLHD website for application tips, to learn more about ISLHD and other important application information.
* Visit the Stepping Up website here. Stepping Up supports Aboriginal people to navigate the recruitment process and find a career or employment in NSW Health.
* Follow us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
* For role-related queries or help applying, contact Danielle Brown at
ISLHD acknowledges that our health district is located on the unceded lands of the Aboriginal people who are the Traditional Custodians of the NSW South Coast.
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