About MDAS MDAS’ purpose, as guided by our Elders, is grounded in community, culture, and self‑determination: Employed by our Community, to work for our Community — engaging, educating, and empowering individuals, families, and the wider Community on their journey to self‑determination. MDAS is committed to being a leading Aboriginal organisation known for making a practical, positive difference to clients, families, and the Community. Our work is underpinned by our LORE , the foundation of who we are, what we do, and why we do it. Our services, people, and culture are strengthened through leadership, community engagement, and collaboration across MDAS teams. Our Purpose MDAS exists to: Heal, support, serve, and protect our communities throughout the Mallee region. Foster healthy, resilient, and capable Aboriginal people and families empowered to be their best and exercise true self‑determination. Care for, strengthen, empower, motivate, and guide our Mob. Position Summary This is a part time permanent role The Dual Diagnosis Nurse provides support to people experiencing co‑occurring alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and mental health concerns. The role includes: Assessing clients, managing risk, providing education, and delivering evidence‑based treatment and case management for individuals with complex needs. Providing confidential and professional AOD and mental health services grounded in a recovery‑focused and culturally safe framework. Working collaboratively with Mildura Base Hospital Mental Health Services for consumers requiring acute admission and management. Operating under the guidance of the Clinical Practice Leader and within multidisciplinary care settings. Key Responsibilities 1. Counselling & Case Management Undertake screening and assessments for mental health, AOD use, and co‑occurring needs. Facilitate referrals to specialist services, including residential withdrawal, rehabilitation, and mental health programs. Apply harm minimisation strategies, risk assessment, and risk management. Use evidence‑based interventions such as CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Relapse Prevention. Provide holistic and coordinated care through advocacy, liaison, and collaboration with external services. Co‑develop client goals and regularly monitor and document progress. Deliver services within trauma‑informed and recovery‑based case management frameworks. 2. Planning & Reporting Enter timely, accurate, and relevant data into MDAS‑approved systems to demonstrate progress towards KPIs. Maintain knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, and practices, and demonstrate proficiency in required technology. Participate in program evaluation with funding and accreditation bodies. Escalate concerns or risks that could place clients or families in unsafe situations. Initiate and participate in quality improvement activities across MDAS. 3. Relationship Management Build and maintain strong relationships with partner agencies to benefit clients and MDAS. Attend relevant meetings, training, and forums to stay informed on new research and treatment models. Work collaboratively with internal teams to streamline intake, assessment, and referral pathways. 4. Corporate Responsibilities Uphold and respect Aboriginal culture, recognising the special connection Aboriginal people have with the land and Community. Comply with Quality, Risk, and OH&S requirements, policies, and safe work practices. Actively improve the safety and quality of services. Support internal and external audit processes. Key Selection Criteria Counselling & Case Management Qualifications, skills, and experience in delivering evidence‑based treatment for people with co‑occurring AOD and mental health needs. Strong knowledge of harm minimisation and trauma‑informed practice. Experience applying a range of assessment tools and treatment interventions. Ability to provide services within a recovery‑oriented case management framework. Ability to develop networks and formalised referral pathways. Organisational Ability to plan, monitor, and evaluate personal and departmental performance. Experience implementing standards related to timelines, cost, relevance, and client satisfaction. Problem Solving Ability to work autonomously and under direction with strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills. Demonstrated ability to involve clients and carers in treatment planning. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise in response to demand or crisis. Understanding of stakeholder needs and ability to negotiate effective solutions. Communication Excellent communication skills with clients and carers. Ability to liaise effectively with staff and external agencies. Strong cross‑cultural communication skills with Aboriginal and non‑Aboriginal people. Skilled in individual counselling and group facilitation. Respect for Cultural Diversity Commitment to providing culturally safe and inclusive services. Willingness to learn about other cultures to strengthen relationships and service delivery. Qualifications & Requirements Registered Nurse with AHPRA. Current Australian Driver’s Licence. Employee Working with Children Check (Victoria). National Police Check. Child Safety Commitment MDAS is a child safe organisation committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and empowerment of all children. Employment is subject to mandatory safety screening requirements. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply To apply online, please click on the appropriate link below. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Simranjeet Kaur Arora on , quoting Ref No. 1270141.
