Social Worker Level 3

Supporting families through pregnancy & parenting with compassionate, trauma-informed care in the SUPPS drug & alcohol service

Remuneration: $112,396 – $116,038 per annum + superannuation + salary packaging

Location: James Fletcher Hospital | Awabakal Country

Employment Type: Permanent Full Time

Position Classification: Social Worker Level 3

Requisition ID: REQ600416

Applications Close: Sunday 7th September 2025

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.

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
• 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

About the role:

The SUPPS (Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Service) is a community-based program within Drug & Alcohol Clinical Services (DACS) that supports parents and families impacted by substance use. Our team culture is compassionate, collaborative, and dedicated to providing holistic, family-centred care.

In this rewarding role, you will provide specialised support to women during pregnancy and early parenting. A typical week may include assessments, counselling, and coordinating care alongside a multidisciplinary team. The position requires adaptability, strong relationship-building skills, and a trauma-informed, family-focused approach.

What we offer:

As part of the SUPPS team, you'll be supported with:

• A structured orientation program
• Access to supervision and mentoring
• Ongoing training in evidence-based practice
• Professional development opportunities through NSW Health and DACS education programs

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact for families while developing your skills in a supportive and values-driven environment.

About you:

We are seeking a clinician who brings:

• Clinical expertise in working with families affected by substance use
• Empathy and a compassionate, non-judgemental approach
• Skills in building trust and supporting clients through complex challenges
• A trauma-informed practice framework

Requirements:

• Tertiary qualifications in Social Work with evidence of extensive clinical experience in a hospital or health field as a practicing Social Worker at Level 3 or above (drug and alcohol experience advantageous) and membership (or eligibility) with the Australian Association Social Workers (AASW).
• Eligibility to drive in NSW and the ability and willingness to travel for work purposes.

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.
• This position is full time; however, job share and/or part time arrangements will be considered.
• We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.

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 Tara Checkley on

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.