Support Coordinator - First Nations

Wellways Australia Limited; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 53,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Wellways Australia Limited is offering a Full-Time Support Coordinator position in Cairns, QLD. The role supports the Aftercare / The Way Back Service, providing up to three months of tailored psychosocial support to individuals after a suicidal crisis or attempt, guided by a Team Leader and partners.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are identified for this role. The role emphasizes risk-aware, culturally safe engagement and collaboration with health, community and clinical

Qualifications

• Certificate IV qualification or commensurate experience in working in the mental health or community services sector.

Responsibilities

• Engaging Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander individuals and others at higher risk, to participate in the program
• Using a strengths-based, recovery-focused approach to co-develop support and safety plans
• Participating in intake and assessment alongside referral partners
• Maximising engagement through culturally appropriate and inclusive practices
• Supporting clients to connect with health, community and clinical supports as per discharge and wellbeing plans
• Respecting client rights, confidentiality and self-determination while managing safety and risk
• Collaborating with service providers and maintaining accurate client records

Education

Certificate IV qualification

Job description

Join a team that values culture, compassion and connection Full-Time Opportunity based in Cairns QLD $46.70 (SCHADS Level 4B) + Leave loading + Super + Salary packaging.

Wellways celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to contribute.

We warmly welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with lived experience of mental health challenges or disability, people from multicultural backgrounds, and people who identify as LGBTIQA+.

We recognise that diverse experiences and perspectives strengthen our workforce and the communities we support.

Make a real difference by walking alongside people during life's toughest moments.

About the Program

The Aftercare / The Way Back Support Service provides non-clinical, practical psychosocial support to individuals who have experienced a suicidal crisis or attempted suicide. Our aim is to ensure people are not alone during recovery and have access to the right support at the right time.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Support Coordinator to join our Cairns-based team. In this role, you will walk alongside individuals for up to three months following a suicidal crisis or attempt, offering tailored support to help them reconnect with life and community. You will work under the guidance of the Team Leader and in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to support the ongoing delivery of this important service.

Please note: This is an Identified Position and open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants, as part of our commitment to a culturally safe and inclusive workforce.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Engaging Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander individuals and others at higher risk, to participate in the program
• Using a strengths-based, recovery-focused approach to co-develop support and safety plans
• Participating in intake and assessment alongside referral partners
• Maximising engagement through culturally appropriate and inclusive practices
• Supporting clients to connect with health, community and clinical supports as per discharge and wellbeing plans
• Respecting client rights, confidentiality and self-determination while managing safety and risk
• Collaborating with service providers and maintaining accurate client records

Pre-engagement requirements:

• Acknowledged by First Nations community and leadership
• Demonstrated connection with first nations communities and understanding of their experiences
• Certificate IV qualification or commensurate experience in working in the mental health or community services sector
• Current valid Driver’s License and the ability to undertake travel for the role
• Current Working with Children Check (Blue Card) and NDIS Workers Screening Check
• Right to Work within Australia
• Satisfactory National Police Records Check (less than 12 months old)
• NDIS Worker Orientation Module Certificate - free online course

Successful applicants must undergo a comprehensive screening process prior to their commencement.

Wellways is committed to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable people.

Applications Close 03/11/2026

Culture

We’re passionate about our work, which is enjoyable, challenging and rewarding. All of our teams work to ensure everyone can imagine and achieve their hopes and potential. We know that people are unique and the experts on their life and are not defined by impairments, diagnosis or labels. We aim to specifically promote safety and inclusivity for LGBTIQ+ and First Nations communities.

Wellways is a leading not-for-profit mental health and disability support organisation operating in Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria and Tasmania. Our services span mental health, disability and community care and reach more than 7000 people each year. Our 2000 staff work to create an inclusive community where everyone can imagine and achieve their hopes and potential. We connect people, strengthen families and transform communities for individuals of all ages experiencing disabilities or challenges to their social and emotional wellbeing. Our Practice Principles guide how we work and interact with participants and partners, with our colleagues and within our communities. To see our Practice Principles poster visit https://media.wellways.org/inline-files/ww383_Practice_Principles.pdf

Wellways Australia Limited is committed to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable people. All applicants applying for roles within Wellways must undergo a screening process prior to their successful appointment.