At a Glance
- Tasks: Empower clients through recovery and positive change as a MERIT Counsellor/Caseworker.
- Company: Join Hunter New England Health, a community-focused service making a real difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Exciting career progression opportunities and a dynamic multidisciplinary team.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in clients' lives during their recovery journey.
- Qualifications: Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, or related field required.
The predicted salary is between 122465 - 122465 £ per year.
Make a meaningful impact as a MERIT Counsellor/Caseworker – Level 1/2, empowering clients through recovery, positive change and renewed opportunities.
Remuneration: $79,419 - $122,465 Per Annum + 12% Super + Salary Packaging
Employment Type: Temporary Full Time until September 2027
Position Classification: Counsellor Level 1, Counsellor Level 2, Occupational Therapist Level 1, Occupational Therapist Level 2, Psychologist, Registered Nurse, Social Worker Level 1, Social Worker Level 2
Hours Per Week: 38
Location: Tamworth CHS
Requisition ID: REQ690755
Applications Close: Sunday 20th September 2026
About the Role:
As part of the MERIT Team, you’ll play a meaningful role in supporting clients experiencing drug and alcohol dependence alongside involvement with the criminal justice system. MERIT is a 12-week therapeutic program supporting clients through the Tamworth Local Court, providing an opportunity to make a genuine difference during a pivotal time in their recovery journey.
You’ll provide individual counselling and casework, while supporting clients to navigate the Court process and engage meaningfully with their treatment and recovery goals throughout the MERIT program.
Working within a highly collaborative and supportive environment, you’ll be well supported by the Service Manager, MERIT Clinical Lead, Allied Health Lead, fellow MERIT colleagues, Administration Officer and the broader DACS team. You’ll also work closely with an Aboriginal Health Practitioner who provides culturally responsive support to Aboriginal clients, helping ensure care is respectful, inclusive and responsive to individual cultural needs.
This opportunity also offers the potential for the position to transition to a permanent role in the future, providing an exciting pathway to continue your professional journey within the MERIT Team.
Where You’ll Be Working:
The MERIT Team is a dynamic multidisciplinary service bringing together Counsellors, Psychologists, Social Workers, Nurses and Administration professionals to provide coordinated, person-centred care. The team provides specialised counselling and case management to clients experiencing drug and alcohol dependence who are also involved with the criminal justice system. Working collaboratively across disciplines, MERIT supports clients through their recovery journey, empowering positive change and helping improve health, wellbeing and quality of life.
Tamworth Community Health Service:
Located in the heart of the beautiful New England region, Tamworth Community Health Service is a vibrant, community-focused service committed to improving the health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities across the region. Offering a diverse range of integrated health services, the team delivers compassionate, person-centred care tailored to the unique needs of the local community.
From primary care and mental health support through to specialised programs supporting families, young people and older adults, the service plays a vital role in creating healthier and more connected communities. At Tamworth Community Health Service, you’ll be part of a dedicated team where collaboration, compassion and community impact come together - making a meaningful difference in the lives of people across the New England region.
Relocating? We've Got You Covered:
Making a move can feel overwhelming, but support is available. The Welcome Experience is a free service designed to help health workers and their families settle into regional communities. From connecting you with local schools, childcare providers, sporting clubs, housing information, and community networks, the program helps make your transition smoother so you can feel at home sooner and start enjoying everything your new community has to offer.
What we can offer you:
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Ongoing professional development opportunities across the administrative network
- Career progression opportunities within NSW Health
- Annual leave and paid parental leave for eligible employees
- Salary packaging options to increase take-home pay
- Fitness Passport and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support wellbeing
Essential Requirements:
- Must hold a degree in Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, Counselling, Occupational Therapy, or other qualification deemed equivalent by the employer, which provides either eligibility for membership of the relevant professional association or full registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
- Eligible to drive in NSW and the ability and willingness to travel for work purposes, which may involve driving long distances.
If this sounds like you, we would love you to apply:
- Bring sound knowledge of counselling techniques and a compassionate, client-centred approach to care.
- Thrive in a collaborative environment, with the confidence to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Communicate with clarity and professionalism, supported by strong written and interpersonal skills.
- Embrace continuous learning, professional development and opportunities to grow your clinical expertise.
Bring your dedication, professionalism, and heart for healthcare to our team - we can’t wait to hear from you!
Additional information:
An eligibility list will be created for future temporary full or part time vacancies. 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.
At Hunter New England Local Health District, we are an inclusive employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Our commitment to a workforce that reflects the community we care for is essential for delivering the highest quality healthcare to our community. We encourage people with diverse lived experiences to apply. If you require any accommodations or adjustments to the recruitment process please let us know when you apply or at any stage of the process. We will work with you to meet your needs and create the best possible experience.
To be eligible for employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport, or hold an appropriate visa that allows you to live and work in Australia. Employment of a temporary visa holder will only be offered in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa. 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.
- Demonstrated capacity to provide drug and alcohol practice including comprehensive assessment, intervention, evidence-based counselling models of care and ability to apply case management principles.
- Evidence of effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills including the ability to adapt communication style to suit different audiences and provide quality written and oral reports.
- Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
Need more information? Click here for the Position Description. Find out more about applying for this position. For role related queries or questions contact Donna Towers on donna.towers@health.nsw.gov.au
Information for Applicants:
Applicants will be assessed against the essential requirements and selection criteria contained within the position description. For assistance addressing selection criteria visit: https://bit.ly/3vL5fq2. Stepping Up Website is a resource designed to help indigenous job applicants apply for positions in NSW Health. For more information, please visit: https://bit.ly/HNEHealthSteppingUp.
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 nswhealth@salarypackagingplus.com.au or 1300 40 25 23.
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.
MERIT Counsellor/Caseworker- Level 1/2 in Tamworth employer: NSW Health
NSW Health is an excellent employer, offering a collaborative work environment where Radiographers can thrive while delivering essential medical imaging services in the Tamworth region. With a focus on employee well-being, the organisation provides generous leave options, salary packaging, and opportunities for professional growth, making it a rewarding place to advance your career in healthcare.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land MERIT Counsellor/Caseworker- Level 1/2 in Tamworth
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to NSW Health, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace MERIT Counsellor/Caseworker- Level 1/2 in Tamworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of NSW Health. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at NSW Health. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at NSW Health
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with NSW Health.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary MERIT Counsellor/Caseworker- Level 1/2 role at NSW Health, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show NSW Health that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
