Drug and Alcohol Senior Clinician - MERIT Team - Targeted

A meaningful career set against the backdrop of regional NSW.

Remuneration: $74,317.93 - $120,680 per annum (dependent on qualifications) + superannuation + salary packaging
Location: Moree Community Health Service | Kamilaroi Country
Employment Type: Permanent Full Time
Position Classification: Counsellor Level 3, Occupational Therapist Level 3, Registered Nurse, Social Worker Level 3
Requisition ID: REQ665032
Applications Close: Tuesday 16th June 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.

About the role:

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 offer

At Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD), 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:

• ADO's each month (for full time employees)
• Salary packaging options
• Fitness Passport
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family members
• Opportunity to work and collaborate with a range of non-clinical and clinical professionals

Additional Information:

• 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.
• An eligibility list will be created for future permanent full or part time and temporary full or part time vacancies. 
• 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