Palmerston Association - Aboriginal Diversion Officer

Palmerston Association – Aboriginal Diversion Officer

Permanent Part-time, 45.6 hours per fortnight | Mandurah WA 6210

Aboriginality is a genuine qualification for this position.

(section 50(d) of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act 1984).

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

📌 In this role, you will work closely with Aboriginal communities and partnering agencies to support engagement in Western Australia’s diversion programs. You will provide culturally appropriate assessments, referrals, and advice to individuals, including those participating in diversion initiatives. Additionally, you will guide and support your team to ensure culturally secure and respectful practices are upheld when working with Aboriginal people.

• Attend local court sessions to support Aboriginal and other individuals participating in diversion programs.
• Conduct assessments and provide tailored, individual support to clients.
• Prepare and submit court reports for clients engaged in diversion initiatives.
• Take part in diversion workshops and other activities facilitated by the Mental Health Commission.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team to deliver education, advice, and support to community members affected by alcohol and other drug issues.
• Offer cultural guidance and promote culturally secure practices within the team

This role is classified at Level 4 under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability 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:

• Aboriginality is a genuine qualification for this position (section 50(d) of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act 1984).
• Experience working with the Aboriginal community.
• Sound oral and written communication skills, particularly record keeping and report writing
• Ability to liaise with people from government, non-government and community agencies.
• Knowledge/skills of computer programs such as Microsoft Office.
• A valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
• Experience counselling clients with AOD issues

Why Join Us?

At Palmerston, we value people—our clients, our communities, and our staff. Here’s what you can look forward to:

✨ Great Benefits:

• 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

🌏 Inclusive Culture:

• 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!

How to Apply

Ready to bring your passion to Palmerston? We’d love to hear from you.

Click “Apply” on Seek! Or, if its more convenient for you, drop off your application at one of our sites.
Be sure to include:

• Your resume
• A cover letter addressing the selection criteria
• Answers to all application questions

⏳ Applications close: 28^th July 2025
We’re reviewing applications as they come in—so don’t wait!

A Few Final Details

You’ll need a valid WA Working with Children Check and a National Police Clearance (issued within the last 3 months).

📞 Got questions? Contact Chelsea Hunter at 0409 233 159 or email [email protected]

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.

If you would like to have a yarn on what it’s like to work at Palmerston as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander employee at Palmerston please contact Wayne Ryder on 08 9399 5344 or [email protected].

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.