MERIT Caseworker

Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD); Griffith City, Albury City; On-site; AUD 79,000 - 122,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

12% superannuation

Salary packaging and novated leasing

Annual leave with 17.5% loading

Relocation assistance considerations

482 sponsorship considerations

Flexible work options including hybrid

Paid maternity and parental leave

Staff wellbeing program

Job summary

The Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) invites applications for MERIT Caseworker – Level 1/2. This role provides high‑quality AOD assessment, case management and therapeutic support within the MERIT program, collaborating with Courts and health services to promote recovery and reduce reoffending.

Positions are based in Griffith and Albury, offering flexible hours, hybrid work options where appropriate and a strong focus on staff wellbeing and professional development.

Qualifications

• Australian recognised qualification and registration with governing body (AHPRA / AASW / PACFA) with evidence
• NSW Working with Children clearance
• Compliance with NSW Health vaccination requirements (Category A)
• Current driver’s licence and willingness to travel as required

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) assessment, case management and therapeutic intervention services to clients referred through Local Courts.
• Develop, implement and review individualised case plans to support clients through treatment and recovery pathways.
• Prepare professional reports for Local Courts regarding client suitability, progress and outcomes within the MERIT program.
• Deliver intensive case management, counselling and referrals across health, housing, employment, relationships and social support.
• Build partnerships with courts, health services and community agencies for coordinated care and outcomes.

Education

Australian recognised qualification and registration with AHPRA / AASW / PACFA

NSW Working with Children clearance

Job description

MERIT Caseworker – Level 1 / 2

Looking for a rewarding clinical role that offers genuine work-life balance while creating positive change in your community? Join the dedicated and highly respected Magistrates’ Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) Program, where you'll support individuals experiencing alcohol and other drug challenges to break the cycle of substance dependence and involvement with the criminal justice system.

As a MERIT Caseworker, you'll work collaboratively with courts, health professionals and community partners to help clients access treatment, build resilience and achieve meaningful recovery outcomes. This is an opportunity to use your clinical expertise in a supportive multidisciplinary environment while making a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of some of our most vulnerable community members.

Our Benefits

Financial:

• 12% superannuation
• Salary packaging and novated leasing
• Annual leave with 17.5% leave loading (for full-time and part-time staff)
• Relocation Assistance Considerations
• 482 sponsorship considerations

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible work options, including hybrid and varied hours (depending on the role)
• Paid maternity and parental leave (for more information)
• Generous leave options like long service and carers leave

Health & Wellbeing

• Discounted gym membership through Fitness Passport
• Free and confidential support for staff and their families via our Staff Wellbeing and Support Service (EAP)
• Wellbeing programs that promote mental health, resilience, and balance

Employment type

Full Time, Part Time and casual opportunities available

Position classification

Social Worker level 1 / 2, Registered Nurse, Counsellor level 1 / 2 with PACFA membership or Psychologist

Remuneration

$79,419.00 – $122,465.00 per annum (+ super +17.5% leave loading where applicable)

Hours per week

Up to 38 hours

Requisition ID

REQ691941

Vaccination Category

A

Location

2x Positions available Griffith / 1x Position available Albury

Who We Are

The Magistrates' Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) Program provides case management for defendants who have entered the criminal justice system and have a demonstrable Alcohol or other drug problem. The purpose of this position is to provide accurate assessments and written reports to the Courts and facilitate intensive case management of defendants throughout the bail period.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a MERIT Caseworker, you will provide high-quality Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) assessment, case management and therapeutic intervention services to clients referred through the Local Courts, supporting improved health, social and legal outcomes.

Key responsibilities include;

• Conduct comprehensive alcohol and other drug assessments, identifying treatment needs, risks and barriers to recovery.
• Develop, implement and regularly review individualised case plans to support clients through treatment, rehabilitation and recovery pathways.
• Prepare professional reports and provide expert advice to Local Courts regarding client suitability, progress and outcomes within the MERIT program.
• Deliver intensive case management, counselling and referrals across a range of areas including health, housing, employment, relationships and social support services.
• Build strong partnerships with courts, health services and community agencies to ensure coordinated, client-centred care and successful treatment outcomes.

Required

Candidates will be required to meet the following criteria:

• Australian recognised qualification and registration and/or membership with governing body (ie. AHPRA / AASW / PACFA) ensure to upload evidence
• NSW Working with children clearance
• Compliance with Vaccination category A
• Current driver’s licence and willingness to travel as required

More Information

• Download thePosition Description

For role related queries or questions contact Casey Doyle, A/Manager Strategic Development Drug & Alcohol & Early Intervention Programs on 0461 397 602 or [e-mail]

Applications close: 8 October 2026

This is a NSW Health Category A position which requires immunisation and screening for certain diseases. The full list of requirements are outlined intheNSW Health OASV Policy (Page 11). You will be required to complete theOASV Undertaking/ Declaration FormandTB Assessment Toolduring the recruitment process. Please upload this with your application along with any other vaccination evidence that you may have.

MLHD values diversity and is committed to building an inclusive workplace culture that reflects the community we serve. We encourage applications from diverse community groups including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTI, people with a disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

NSW Health is committed to implementing theChild Safe Standards.