Permanent Parttime 40hours per fortnight /Katanning

This position is open to female applicants only, in accordance with Section 27 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA), as the occupant’s gender is a genuine occupational qualification.

Make a Real Impact at Palmerston Association

Since 1980, Palmerston has been a leader in AOD support across WA, helping people improve their wellbeing. We offer specialised services in alcohol and other drug treatment, mental health, and wellbeing, through counselling, group support, residential rehabilitation, and education—reaching communities across the Perth metro, Peel, South West, and Great Southern regions.

About the Role

Here’s your chance to be part of a passionate, purpose-driven team that’s making a genuine difference every day.

- Working within the FDV refuge in Katanning, the FDV Counsellor possesses a sound level of clinical knowledge and skills, to provide culturally secure and trauma informed counselling, education and support to consumers and their families.
- The FDV Counsellor provides trauma‑informed, client‑centred therapeutic support to women and children experiencing family and domestic violence who are residing in the refuge. The role aims to promote safety, healing, and empowerment through culturally sensitive, strengths‑based counselling interventions.
- This role is classified at Level 3 under the Social and Community Services and Crisis Accommodation Services Industry Award 2010.

This role requires confidence, compassion, and a steady presence. Working alongside vulnerable individuals means facing complex situations, high emotions, and occasional setbacks. That’s why we’re looking for someone who embodies compassion, connection, acceptance, and respect —someone who can offer unwavering support while maintaining the ability to navigate difficult moments with confidence and care. With a commitment to excellence in service , you’ll provide the stability and encouragement that empowers individuals on their journey toward change.





What We’re Looking For

You’re more than your qualifications—you’re someone who brings heart, empathy, professionalism and a strong commitment to supporting clients in improving their wellbeing. The ideal candidate will meet the following selection criteria:

- Tertiary qualified Counsellor, Psychologist or Family Therapist (Social Worker) with demonstrated knowledge and expertise within trauma, AOD, family violence and mental health.
- Demonstrated and well‑developed assessment and counselling skills and/or case management skills.
- Demonstrated initiative in tasks of an administrative nature appropriate to the role.
- Demonstrated ability to be a team player and contribute to building a team spirit within the workplace.

Why Join Us?

- Salary packaging up to $15,900 + $2,650 for meals/entertainment
- 5 days of life & wellness leave (pro rata)
- 9 weeks paid parental leave for the primary carer
- 2 weeks paid partner leave for non‑primary carers
- Option to purchase an additional week of leave each year
- Partial access to long service leave after 5 years
- Flexible, family‑friendly work arrangements
- 17.5% annual leave loading (award‑based staff)
- 5 days paid gender affirmation leave
- Cultural leave (2 paid + 8 unpaid days) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff
- Staff‑led working groups (RAP, Rainbow, Environmental, Disability Access & Inclusion)
- Aboriginal Staff Forum to connect and collaborate
- Our annual Big Day Out brings staff together from all sites to relax, connect and celebrate our work
- We’re Rainbow Tick accredited—the first and only AOD provider in WA to achieve this!

Diversity makes us stronger. We seek and welcome diversity and a breadth of experience and backgrounds in our teams. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and people who identify as LGBTIQ+ are encouraged to apply.

Recruitment agencies, we appreciate your consideration. However, we strive to fill our opportunities through direct channels whenever feasible. If we require agency assistance, we will reach out.

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📌 FDV Counsellor (Shire of Katanning)
🏢 Palmerston Association
📍 Shire of Katanning