Aboriginal Mental Health Drug & Alcohol Trainee

NSW Health; Dubbo; On-site; AUD 68,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

Western NSW Local Health District invites applications for an Aboriginal Mental Health Drug & Alcohol Trainee in Dubbo. This three-year traineeship combines supported study with practical learning in culturally safe MHDA services.

You will work in a multidisciplinary team, under supervision, gaining experience across mental health and drug & alcohol care while earning and learning. This identified role supports Aboriginal peoples and communities and offers pathways into healthcare careers.

Qualifications

• This is an identified Aboriginal position to support MHDA services.
• Role involves working within a multidisciplinary Aboriginal MHDA team.

Responsibilities

• Support delivery of culturally safe MHDA services for Aboriginal people, families and communities.
• Gain exposure to mental health and drug & alcohol care settings under supervision.

Job description

Aboriginal Mental Health Drug & Alcohol Trainee

Employment Type: Temporary Full Time (Starting 4 January 2027 up to 1 April 2030)
Position Classification: Aboriginal Health Worker
Remuneration: $67,612.00 - $97,730.00 pa (+ superannuation + salary packaging options)
Location: Dubbo NSW – Find out more
Hours Per Week: 38
Applications Close: 8 November 2026 – 11:59pm

Aboriginal Mental Health Drug & Alcohol Trainee
Mental Health Drug & Alcohol, Dubbo

About the role
Start a career that makes a real difference in Aboriginal Mental Health and Drug & Alcohol (MHDA) care. This unique trainee opportunity is ideal for someone looking to build a meaningful career while gaining a qualification and valuable on-the-job experience. Combining supported study with practical learning, the role provides a strong pathway into the Mental Health Drug & Alcohol field.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the Aboriginal MHDA Trainee will support the delivery of culturally safe services that promote the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal people, their families and communities. With guidance and supervision, the role offers exposure to a variety of Mental Health and Drug & Alcohol services, providing the opportunity to develop skills, confidence and experience across a broad range of settings.

Throughout the three-year traineeship, Western NSW Local Health District will support the trainee's learning and professional development, including participation in residential teaching blocks and structured training opportunities. This hands-on learning experience allows the successful applicant to earn while they learn and develop a solid foundation for a rewarding career in healthcare.

Reporting to the local Team Leader and supported by strong links with the District Coordinator of Aboriginal MHDA Services, the role offers ongoing mentorship and encouragement from experienced professionals who are committed to helping trainees succeed.

To find out more about the role click to view the Position Description

Helping you Move to Western NSW
The Welcome Experience is a free NSW Government service supporting workers (and their families) who have accepted a job with Western NSW LHD in most locations. The service helps with housing, schooling, partner work and community connections. Find out more at The Welcome Experience

A career with Western NSW means you can challenge yourself, make an impact and shape the future of rural health. To explore the benefits of a career in our Local Health District, visit the WNSWLHD website.

Additional information for applicants:

This is an identified position in accordance withSection 14 (d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977– only suitably qualified Aboriginal people are eligible for this position and are encouraged to apply. For more information, visitAnti-Discrimination Act 1977

This recruitment may be used to create an Eligibility List for similar roles in the future (ongoing or temporary).

Western NSW LHD can provide reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Applicants who provide information on an injury, health condition, or disability in their pre-employment forms will receive a functional assessment from our Risk Management Unit (RMU). This review will consider the applicant’s needs and what reasonable adjustments and workplace supports are available to support their employment journey.

Western NSW LHD is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child in our care. All staff in WNSWLHD are required to provide a safe and supportive environment for children, while working to protect them from harm and abuse. For more information on the Child Safety Standards, visit: NSW Government - Office of Children's Guardian

Western NSW is committed to creating a safe and accessible workplace that promotes diversity, inclusion and belonging. As a vibrant and diverse region, rich in community and culture, we welcome applications from all people to build a respectful workplace dedicated to delivering the best health outcomes for our community.

To find out more about the remuneration and conditions, visit NSW Public Health System Awards

For more information, visit a Guide to Employment with WNSWLHD