Lived Experience

 Employment Type -  Temporary Part Time

Hours per fortnight - 64 

Job Category - Other Professionals - Lived Experience

Req Id

• Join and contribute your skills, innovation and experience to the first public-funded Victorian regional Eating Disorders day program
• Work in a team that commits to the same culture we ask of group members, and includes collaboration, trust, learning, and a sense of belonging
• Work intensively with consumers and their families/supports to make a big difference
• Part time temporary position | 64 hours per fortnight | Contract until June 20, 2027

About Barwon Health

Barwon Health is one of the largest and most comprehensive regional health services in Australia, providing care at all stages of life and circumstance. Services available through Barwon Health cover the full spectrum from primary care, community services, aged care, rehabilitation, mental health, emergency and acute care. We serve more than 500,000 people through the efforts of more than 9000 staff and volunteers across more than 20 sites. Barwon Health is committed to developing a vibrant culture of education, training and research that advances health and wellbeing for all.

About Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Services (MHDAS)  

MHDAS provides integrated and recovery oriented mental health, drugs and alcohol assessment, treatment and community support to people of all ages within the Barwon region experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, mental health and drug & alcohol issues, and their families. 

Our service is internationally recognised for its innovative clinical programs and integrated models of practice that are client centred, accessible and family inclusive. We are fortunate to enjoy terrific internal relationships and have developed excellent partnerships with the local community that provide for seamless integrated care for our clients. 

MHDAS is entering a new phase of co-design of our service system with people who access our services and our wider community. This will build on our nationally recognized unique cultural approach to the challenges of recovery-oriented service delivery to redesign our service system. 

About the facility 

Our major sites include University Hospital Geelong in Geelong's CBD, the McKellar Centre precinct in North Geelong, Barwon Health North in Norlane, and residential aged care facilities spanning the region. Comprehensive mental health, community health and dental services are delivered through various programs across the Barwon South West Region, including Torquay and Colac.

The Barwon Health Eating Disorder Day Program (EDDP) is a group-based treatment program for people diagnosed with an eating disorder who require more intensive therapy and support. The vision of EDDP is to foster steps towards recovery through therapeutic groups, nutritional guidance, and individual support, all within a safe, compassionate environment. The program aims to empower individuals to reengage meaningfully in their lives and build sustainable recovery.

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a pioneering team delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to those impacted with eating disorders, while working in a supportive and innovative environment.

A core part of this role is to work collaboratively within a dynamic multidisciplinary team which will include mental health clinicians, dietician, lived experience workforce, occupational therapist, exercise physiologist, psychiatrist and medical representation.

As guided by the broader team, the Peer Worker will provide expert input into the development of the Eating Disorder Day program; one-on-one peer support and facilitate groups. The role will draw upon your own lived experience of an eating disorder and a recipient of public mental health or drug and alcohol services, to inform your practice. The role will contribute to MHDAS education activities designed to promote a greater understanding of peer work and the value of lived experience input into the service.

Please note Barwon Health will only contact you via our official email and never use unconventional means, such as text messaging or other services.

About the culture

You will have the opportunity to be part of a highly skilled, professional and dedicated team who take pride in providing high quality services. We promote positive, respectful relationships and strong partnerships within the workplace. Grow and develop your capabilities with Barwon Health's commitment to professional development.

The Eating Disorders Day Program is an extension of the Barwon Health Eating Disorder Service (EDS), and will work alongside the EDS manager. The Day Program team will commit to building and sustaining the same culture we ask of group members, and includes collaboration, trust, learning, and a sense of belonging.

Barwon Health staff benefits

• Excellent working conditions with a high sense of job satisfaction.
• A vibrant staff wellbeing program and access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program.
• Wide-range of professional development opportunities to enhance your career.
• Attractive salary packaging benefits. Living expenses capped at $9010 and meals and entertainment capped at $2650.

About Geelong

Derived from the local Wathaurong Aboriginal name for the region Djilang, Geelong is thought to mean 'Tongue of Land'.

Geelong offers a range of lifestyle choices including inner city, coastal, suburban and rural homes.

• Geelong is home to world class schools and education providers.
• Doorstep to the Great Ocean Road, Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast
• Appreciate our vast and abundant parklands, sports and entertainment attractions, and thriving dining and shopping complexes.

To learn more about the region, click here. 

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe in the power of diversity and inclusion. We celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and talents of our team members, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Our commitment to diversity strengthens our ability to provide compassionate and equitable care to all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, abilities and identities.

We are committed to providing positive employment opportunities and a workplace that promotes wellbeing, and we welcome and encourage applications from those who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

We actively encourage individuals with disabilities and diverse backgrounds and identities to apply for our positions. Should you require any reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment process, we are here to assist you every step of the way.

We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. Click here for further information on the Victorian Government's Child Safe Standards.

Prior to commencement with Barwon Health, all new employees are required to provide a completed Barwon Health Immunity Status form and have Staff Care clearance.

If you need assistance with your application for this role, please email the Mental Health recruitment team at  with your preferred contact method and details, and we will get in touch with you.

Contact person: Hollie Laver | Manager | Eating Disorder Service
Email: 
Phone: Amanda Dando |

Application closing date: Friday July 18, 2025

Position Description 

Are you currently a Barwon Health employee? If so, please follow the links below on how to apply.

Instructions for Internal Candidates only