Senior Clinician

Looking for a way to make a real impact on our community? Be at the forefront of a dynamic workforce utilising innovative, evidence-based skills and interventions to professionally support people requesting assistance with alcohol and drug use.

With a rewarding career in alcohol and other drugs, you can be part of the vibrant and professional team enriching health in millions of ways every day.

Our benefits

• A collaborative, teams-based multi-disciplinary approach to patient care
• Engaging and intellectually stimulating work
• A team that is inclusive, respectful, and values the diverse communities it serves
• A position dedicated to empowering others to achieve their goals
• Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero
• 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

Employment Type: Permanent Full Time

Position Classification: Occupational Therapist Lvl 3, Psychologist, Registered Nurse, Social Worker Lvl 3, Counsellor Lvl 3

Remuneration: $ $58.52 per hour + superannuation

Hours Per Week: 38

Requisition ID: REQ611227

Location: Mid North Coast | Worimi & Biripi Country

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.

Who we are

The successful candidate will be based on the beautiful Mid-North Coast, near Forster and Taree — an area offering absolute serenity and a choice of picturesque mountains, pristine beaches, and tranquil rainforest trails to explore in your free time. As part of the MERIT Team, you will help deliver programs that promote the best possible outcomes for our clients, working collaboratively with fellow MERIT team members and the wider Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services (DACS) team to achieve these goals.

The alcohol and other drugs 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.

What you'll be doing

Using innovative, evidence-based skills and interventions, you will professionally support individuals seeking assistance with alcohol and drug use. You will take a trauma-informed approach and provide respectful, person-centred care, tailored to individual's needs. Central to your role will be employing an individualised, holistic approach to care, incorporating comprehensive care planning to address the diverse physical, emotional, and social aspects of each person's journey.

As a Senior Clinician in our team, you will work with clients experiencing challenges related to alcohol and/or other drug use who are engaged with the Local Court system for up to 12 weeks. In this role, you will lead continuous improvement initiatives while delivering evidence-based interventions to support positive client outcomes.

You will be well supported by your MERIT and DACS colleagues, as well as the Health Service Manager (HSM), District Manager, and the Court Diversion Services team. A comprehensive orientation will be provided upon commencement, and you will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities.

About you

In this role, you will demonstrate an approachable and non-judgemental manner, fostering trust and rapport with clients and colleagues alike. Strong active listening skills are essential to building effective working relationships, alongside professionalism, clear boundaries, and genuine empathy. You will also be able to provide clear and concise direction, maintain a client-centred approach, and demonstrate confidence as you collaborate within a multidisciplinary team.

Criteria

Candidates will need to meet the following criteria:

• Must hold a degree in Social Work, Psychology, 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.

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 William Robertson on

Additional Information

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

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:

Stepping Up Website is a resource designed to help indigenous job applicants apply for positions in NSW Health. For more information, please visit:

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.

Salary Packaging: is beneficial to most Hunter New England Health employees and may increase your take-home pay Salary package a range of personal expenses including novated motor vehicle leases, relocation expenses, and HECS/HELP debt. Find out more by contacting SalaryPackagingPLUS via or

Hunter New England Health employees may be eligible for a range of benefits such as allocated days off (ADO) for full time employees, long service leave, paid maternity leave, and salary packaging options including meal expenses.

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Applications Close: Monday 10th November 2025

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