Aboriginal Mental Health Professional

**Employment Type**: Permanent Full Time
**Position Classification**: Social Worker Level 1/2, Occupational Therapist Level 1/2, Dietitian Level 1/2, Counsellor Level 1/2, Psychologist, Registered Nurse
**Remuneration**: $72,152.53 - $113,226 per annum + super + salary packaging
**Location**: Wonnarua Country | Maitland
**Hours Per Week**: 38
**Requisition ID**: REQ528953
**Applications Close**: Sunday, 12th January 2025

**This is a position identified for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people on the basis of a genuine occupational qualification under section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants must demonstrate Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status in addition to addressing the selection criteria.**

**About Us**:
Hunter Valley Mental Health Service (HVMHS) is a vital part of the Hunter New England Local Health District’s Mental Health Network. We are committed to delivering high-quality care to individuals experiencing severe mental health challenges. Our services address a wide spectrum of mental health issues, including mood disorders, psychosis, eating disorders, personality disorders, and the impact of significant life events.
- Integrated Services and Facilities:_
HVMHS operates both community-based services and a 24-bed acute psychiatric unit at Maitland Hospital. Our integrated model ensures a seamless continuum of care—from home-based treatment to in-hospital care and post-discharge support—allowing us to provide comprehensive mental health services across various settings.
- Outreach:_
We serve a wide geographic area, including the local government areas of Maitland, Dungog, Cessnock, Singleton, Muswellbrook, and Upper Hunter, significantly impacting community mental health across the region.
- Our Team:_
Join our multidisciplinary team of dedicated professionals, including Doctors, Nurses, Social Workers, Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, an Aboriginal Counsellor, a Peer Worker, a Dietitian, and Administrative staff. Together, we provide holistic care focused on assessment, care planning, treatment, and ongoing review to support mental well-being and recovery.
- What We Do:_
At HVMHS, we believe in a comprehensive, team-based approach to mental health care, ensuring every individual receives the support they need to improve their mental health and thrive in their recovery journey.

**About the Role**:
The position of Aboriginal Mental Health Counsellor with Hunter Valley Mental Health Service typically involves a variety of clinical, community, and outreach activities aimed at supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This is a crucial role in bridging the gap between mainstream mental health services and the unique needs of Indigenous communities. The role requires cultural competence, sensitivity, and a strong understanding of the social, historical, and systemic factors that influence mental health in Aboriginal populations.

You will be supported and strongly encouraged to engage in regular clinical supervision in an ongoing manner as part of this role.

**About You**:
Additionally, this role requires evidence of cultural competence and cultural sensitivity, a commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing, strong communication and interpersonal skills as well as ethical integrity and professionalism.

**Requirements**:

- Must hold a qualification: Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Nursing, Social Work, Dietetics, Counsellor (Degree in Bachelor of Health Science Mental health, Djirruwang Program) which provides eligibility or membership of the relevant professional association / provisional or general registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
- Eligible to drive in NSW.
- Significant experience and knowledge as a cultural consultant with demonstrated commitment to Closing the Gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

**What we can offer you**:
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:

- 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
- Opportunity to work and collaborate with a range of non-clinical and clinical professionals

**Additional information**:

- An eligibility list will be created for future permanent full or part time and temporary full or part time v