MERIT Counsellor/ Caseworker
Make a Difference: MERIT Program Caseworker (Drug & Justice Support)
Remuneration: $62,486 - $113,226 Per Annum + Super
Location: Awabakal - Newcastle Community Health Service
Employment Type: Temporary Full Time
Position Classification: Health Clinician Lvl 1
Hours Per Week: 38
Requisition ID: REQ560295
Applications close: 22/03/2025
Whilst this position is open to all individuals, it is targeted to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people under section 21 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply and consideration will be given to suitable Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants to promote equal or improved access. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants must demonstrate Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status in addition to addressing the selection criterion.
Where you’ll be working
Join the Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) Program at Newcastle Community Health, located at 670 Hunter Street, Newcastle. The MERIT program is designed to support individuals with drug dependency who are involved in the justice system, helping them access treatment and make positive life changes. You'll be part of a highly skilled multidisciplinary team, including Nurses, Social Workers, Psychologists, Counsellors, and Aboriginal Health Workers, all working together to improve outcomes for clients.
About the role
As a MERIT Caseworker, you will:
- Provide weekly counselling and casework appointments to clients in the program.
- Support clients through the court process, including progress reporting to the court as required.
- Establish and maintain referral pathways to specialist services such as housing, mental health, GP services, Aboriginal-specific services, and ongoing counselling.
- Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to deliver holistic care.
- Skills you’ll develop in this role
- Problem-solving skills
- Open communication (written and verbal)
- Time management
- Teamwork and collaboration
About you
We are looking for a passionate and dedicated professional who:
- Has experience or interest in drug dependency support and the justice system.
- Works effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Can communicate clearly and professionally with clients, courts, and service providers.
- Has strong organisational and time management skills.
- Is committed to helping individuals make positive life changes.
- Support & Development
You will be well-supported in this role by:
- Your line manager and colleagues
- An elected supervisor
- The Aboriginal Workforce Manager & Clinical Lead
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
What we can offer you
At Hunter New England Health, enjoy a career where you're challenged by meaningful work and surrounded by spectacular locations. Join the team enriching health in millions of ways every day:
- Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero
- Proximity to shopping and other services
- Monthly Allocated Days Off (for full-time employees)
- 4 weeks annual leave (pro-rata for part-time employees)
- 6 weeks annual leave (for eligible full-time nurses)
- Paid parental leave (for eligible employees) - giving you the opportunity for true work-life 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
Opportunity to work and collaborate with a range of non-clinical and clinical professionals.
Make a real impact on the lives of individuals navigating the justice system and seeking recovery. Apply today!
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 Leeona.Moxey@health.nsw.gov.au
Additional Information
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.
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.
We recognise and respect the continuing connection to land, water and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and its interconnectedness to health and wellbeing. We pay our respects to the Elders who hold and share the cultural knowledge, heritage, beliefs, and the relationship with the land. We acknowledge the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within our District, the staff who work with us and the Aboriginal services and organisations who partner with us to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across our footprint. We celebrate the strength, diversity, resilience, and cultural beliefs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
