Make a real difference every day as a Counsellor with our supportive, multidisciplinary team. In this role, you’ll empower clients to overcome challenges, set meaningful goals, and achieve lasting positive change. You’ll also play a key role in community education, promoting wellbeing and resilience in line with our organisation’s values. If you’re a compassionate, motivated professional looking to grow your career while impacting lives, we’d love to hear from you.

ABOUT US For over 30 years, Northern District Community Health (NDCH) has supported healthy, inclusive rural communities across all ages. Partnering with health services and government, we provide integrated, accessible care tailored to rural needs.

Our services include medical care, allied health, nursing, mental health, counselling, health promotion, and community programs. We also offer in-home support for older adults to help them age in place and stay connected.

Serving the Gannawarra, Buloke, Loddon Shires, and the Rural City of Swan Hill, NDCH employs over 120 staff and 130 volunteers across towns like Cohuna, Kerang, Boort, and Swan Hill. We offer rewarding careers with a genuine work-life balance for passionate professionals.

Role Overview

This position plays a key role within a team-based, multidisciplinary organisation, focusing on the support and treatment of individuals experiencing drug and alcohol dependency. The primary responsibilities include providing person-centred care, assisting clients in developing and achieving goals for sustainable change, and delivering community education programs. The role also involves contributing to the organisation's broader objectives in line with funding obligations and the vision and values of Northern District Community Health (NDCH).

Key Accountabilities

1.



Conduct comprehensive assessments and re-assessments using standardised tools and evidence-based practices for clients with co-occurring substance use issues.
2. Provide individual and group AOD counselling for both voluntary and mandated clients.
3. Work collaboratively with clients to develop and implement goal-focused rehabilitation plans that address substance use, mental health, and social needs.
4. Support clients in adjusting behaviours, attitudes, and expectations to promote lasting change.
5. Monitor client progress and adapt interventions as needed.
6. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and external services to ensure coordinated care and treatment planning.
7. Build and maintain partnerships with local organisations, carers, and community supports.
8. Maintain accurate, confidential client records and complete required data reporting and administrative tasks.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential:

- Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Counselling, Mental Health, Psychology, or Social Work.
- Certificate IV or higher in Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) – must have or be willing to enroll and complete expediently after commencement
- Registration: Membership with the Australian Counselling Association or equivalent.
- Experience: Demonstrated experience working with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, using recovery-oriented or trauma-informed frameworks.

Desirable:

- Awareness of current AOD referral pathways into the program, via Australian Community Support Organisation (ACSO),



as well as support available post program.
- Knowledge of the causes and effects of drugs and alcohol, and addictions on individuals, families and communities.
- Excellent time management skills, with the ability to prioritise workload effectively and work flexible schedule across multiple locations as required.
- Highly developed verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including negotiation, conflict resolution, and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Ability to use digital clinical systems and quickly learn new technologies to support client management and reporting.

Why join us? At NDCH, we’re more than a workplace, we’re a community committed to healthier, inclusive rural lives. Guided by values like courage and inclusivity, we offer a supportive, flexible environment prioritising well-being and growth. As a not-for-profit, we provide salary packaging, real career opportunities, and meaningful community impact. Here, your voice matters and your work make a difference.

Application Requirements

- Complete mandatory pre-employment checks (e.g., references, work rights, police, child safety, NDIS checks); appointment depends on results.
- Maintain valid Police, Working with Children, and NDIS check during employment.
- Provide and keep current professional registrations and driver’s license.

How to apply Please submit the following documents via the form below:

- A current Resume (CV)
- A Cover Letter detailing your interest in the position
- A separate Key Selection Criteria response

If you require further information, please contact the People & Culture Team at Northern District Community Health on: Phone - [03 5451 0200](tel:03 5451 0200)

Email - [email protected]

Website - www.ndch.org.au

📌 Alcohol & Other Drugs (AOD) Counsellor (Kerang)
🏢 Northern District Community Health
📍 Kerang