Senior Counsellor/Caseworker Level 3 (MERIT) - Targeted - Incentives Offered

A meaningful career set against the backdrop of regional NSW.

Employment Type: Permanent Full Time
Position Classification: Counsellor Level 3, Occupational Therapist Level 3, Registered Nurse, Social Worker Level 3
Remuneration:  $74,317.93 - $120,680 per annum (dependent on qualifications) + Superannuation + Salary packaging + Rural Health Incentives
Hours Per Week: 38
Requisition ID: REQ676472
Location: Moree Community Health Service
Applications Close: Sunday 12th July 2026

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
You’ll be part of a supportive and multidisciplinary MERIT team, working alongside Nurses, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, Counsellors, and Administration staff. Together, the team delivers counselling, case management and referral pathways for clients experiencing drug and alcohol dependency who are involved with the criminal justice system - making a real difference at a critical point in their lives.

Based at Moree Community Health, this role offers the best of both meaningful work and regional lifestyle. Outside of work, you can unwind with a picnic at Waa Gorge, cool off at the Artesian Aquatic Centre, or explore the local arts scene at the Moree Gallery. While your base is in Moree, you’ll also play an important role across the region, providing coverage for both Moree and Narrabri courts.
 

The Opportunity
Step into a dynamic and impactful position where you’ll play a key role at the intersection of health and the justice system. You’ll attend court to provide expert clinical advice and care in line with best practice guidelines, undertake comprehensive assessments, and apply evidence-based interventions that support positive outcomes for clients.

Working both independently and as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team, you’ll take ownership of your professional responsibilities while also guiding and supporting colleagues when needed. Ongoing learning is built into the role - you’ll actively participate in professional development and education to keep your skills sharp and your practice current.

From day one, you’ll be set up for success with a structured orientation, followed by access to tailored training and development opportunities. You’ll be backed by a strong support network, including your MERIT teammates, Direct Line Manager, Allied Health Lead, Clinical Lead for MERIT NENW, District Manager, and the broader DACS community - ensuring you’re never working in isolation.

About you
Our ideal candidate will:

• Have exceptional time management skills
• Be able to work in a team environment and promote professional expertise
• Understand the importance of confidentiality

• Be capable in both verbal and written communication techniques

   
   

Requirements

• Must hold a degree in Social Work, Counselling, Occupational Therapy or Nursing which provides either eligibility for membership of the relevant professional association or full registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
• Social Workers, Occupational Therapists and Counsellors must have 3 years full time equivalent experience.
• Eligible to drive in NSW and the ability and willingness to travel for work purposes, which may involve driving long distances.

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. You'll contribute to the team enriching health in millions of ways every day. On top of this we also offer:

• Be rewarded with up to $10,000 in the first 12 months PLUS up to $5,000 each year thereafter in fortnightly payments under the Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme.*
• 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)
• 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

• * Based on a minimum 18-month commitment to the position or the agreed duration of your contract. All payments to part-time and contract employees will be made on a pro-rata basis in accordance with the terms of your contract, including any approved extensions. If your contract ends before the agreed completion date, you may be required to repay a portion of the incentive. Please note: the increased RHWIS allowance is approved until 30^th June 2026. Commencement after this date may be subject to change, including the allowance amount for which the candidate may be eligible. To check your eligibility, visit the Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme. For further information or to discuss your circumstances, please contact HNELHD-RuralIncentives@health.nsw.gov.au.
• An eligibility list will be created for future permanent full or part time vacancies.
• 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.

1. Comprehensive understanding or experience in drug and alcohol practice including comprehensive assessment, care planning, intervention, and evidence-based counselling models of care and ability to apply case management principles
2. Demonstrated understanding of the principles of trauma informed care and its application to therapeutic interventions.
3. Demonstrated ability to work as a senior clinician in a multi-disciplinary team demonstrating application of professional and ethical boundaries when working with complex situations.

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 Kate Forbes-Walker (Cultural contact) on kate.forbeswalker@health.nsw.gov.au or Donna Towers on donna.towers@health.nsw.gov.au

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.