The Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) is a voluntary pre-plea program for adults in the NSW Local Court who have issues related to their alcohol and/or other drug (AOD) use.  MERIT provides access to a range of AOD treatment services for 12 weeks while Court matters are adjourned.

MERIT aims to reduce the harms associated with AOD use, improve the health and wellbeing and reduce offending for adults who use AOD and are in contact with the criminal justice system.

The MERIT Program Case Worker operates within a multidisciplinary team environment as part of Drug & Alcohol Health Services Inc. This position is based in the organisation’s Coffs Harbour NSW Office up to 4 days per week.

Selection Criteria: 

1. Relevant tertiary qualifications in health, science, social, education, behavioral sciences or equivalent.
2. Demonstrated understanding of contemporary methods of drug and alcohol client service delivery.
3. Demonstrated capacity to provide written reports, assessment, case management and co-ordinate care to clients referred to the MERIT Program.
4. Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.
5. Demonstrated organisational, time management and strong interpersonal skills.
6. Demonstrated written and oral communication skills including report writing.
7. Experience working with multicultural, Aboriginal and CALD communities with strong cultural awareness, empathy and understanding of a wide and diverse community.
8. Sound computer and typing skills.
9. Current driver’s licence.
10. Understanding of and commitment to Equity, Workplace Health and Safety and Quality Improvement.

Desirable:

1. Experience in facilitating groups.
2. Criminal Justice system experience applicable to Local Court.
3. Experience working in a variety of health and welfare settings.

Salary: Award, Grade in accordance with experience.

Applications must address ALL Selection Criteria + provide current resume to be considered for this role. 

Close Date: by Close of Business Thursday 1 December 2022

All Applications and/or Position Description requests: [email protected]

Standard background/criminal/working with children and other checks as mandated by NSW Health apply for all successful appointments with Drug & Alcohol Health Services Inc. (DAHS) who is a Diverse, Equal Opportunity Employer.  Please include referees from immediate supervisor/manager of your last 2 positions held. Thank you.