Rivermount College is a non-denominational, co-educational Christian College with a vibrant and inclusive community. Established in 1992, the College caters for over 1000 students from Kindergarten to Year 12. The College has developed a well-respected reputation for providing students with an enriched learning environment and a holistic education.

Our students belong to a vibrant and inclusive community which fosters a genuine love of learning through an innovative and dynamic curriculum, complemented by an extensive cocurricular program designed to extend learning beyond the traditional classroom.

Rivermount College is currently seeking to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced Indigenous College Counsellor to commence in Term 1, 2024. The successful applicant will have a qualification in psychology, social work, or counselling as well as membership of an appropriate Professional body. It is also imperative that the successful applicant strongly embraces and can promote the Mission of the College.

As the Indigenous College Counsellor you will be responsible for providing counselling services, within the framework of the Christian ethos of the College. Additionally, you will provide culturally appropriate assistance and support to Indigenous students and their families.

This position is full-time (5 days per week) term-time only and commences on Thursday 18 January 2024.

*IDENTIFIED POSITION* – To perform this role it is essential that the person who holds the position be an Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. It is therefore a genuine occupational requirement under section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 that applicants are Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Provide counselling services to individual and/or groups of students.
• Assist in the delivery of educational initiatives focused on developing cultural awareness, understanding and respect for Indigenous culture within the College.
• Support and mentor Indigenous students at the College to assist them in realising their potential.
• Assist the College to provide successful learning outcomes for Indigenous students.
• Work closely with Indigenous parents and other community groups to encourage proactive engagement with the College.
• Assist The Hank Young Foundation with the provision of educational and welfare support offered to the Indigenous community.

Selection Criteria 

To be successful for this role, you will have:

1. Relevant qualification and industry experience in psychology, social work, or counselling.
2. Strong knowledge of current evidence-based practices, policies and current legislations. 
3. Understanding of case management with strong report writing and case noting skills. 
4. Be prepared to undergo professional development and ongoing supervision.
5. Display confidentiality, tact and sensitivity around students, their families, and staff
6. Connection to and knowledge of Indigenous histories, cultures and spiritualities. Local knowledge is highly desirable. 
7. An ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with Indigenous families and College staff to improve educational outcomes through targeted and direct academic support.
8. An ability to liaise between teachers, Indigenous students and their parents/carers and  have a genuine interest in supporting students and their communities.
9. Must have a “Blue card” (ability to work with children) or eligible to be able to apply for one.
10. Must have or be willing to obtain a First Aid Certificate.

How to Apply

Your application should include your resume plus a brief cover letter addressed to the Principal, stating how you meet the Selection Criteria. Please apply online or by sending your application to [email protected] 

Applications close at 4:00pm on Wednesday 20 December 2023. 

Rivermount College reserves the right to close the advertisement before this date is reached. Applications for this role may be considered as they are received, and an appointment made prior to the advertised close date. Therefore, it is encouraged that you submit your application as soon as possible. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Rivermount College is an equal employment opportunity employer and recognises the benefits of a diverse workforce. We encourage and welcome candidates to apply for this role. All personal information will be handled in accordance with the College’s Privacy Policy.