Position Title: Culture Care Connect Suicide Prevention Coordinator (12‑month Maternity Leave – Fixed Term) Department: Health and Clinical Services Team: Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Supervisor: SEWB Team Leader Location: Mildura About MDAS MDAS’ reason for being is described by our Elders as: “Employed by our Community, to work for our Community… engaging, educating, and empowering individuals, families, and our Community in their journey to self‑determination.” MDAS is committed to becoming a leading Aboriginal organisation recognised for making a practical difference in the lives of our clients, families, and Community. This commitment is underpinned by our LORE , which forms the foundation of who we are, what we do, and why we do it. Our services, people, and culture are guided by strong leadership and meaningful engagement with Community and MDAS teams. Our Purpose Our purpose is to: Heal, support, serve, and protect our communities throughout the Mallee region Support healthy, resilient, and capable Aboriginal people and families who can live their best lives and exercise true self‑determination Care for, strengthen, empower, motivate, and guide our Mob Position Summary The Culture Care Connect Program brings together key streams of suicide prevention planning, coordination, and activity across the region. This includes awareness raising, early intervention, crisis management, and culturally appropriate supports for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The program enables an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander‑led, coordinated approach to reducing self‑harm, suicidal ideation, and suicide, aligned with Community needs and priorities. The Culture Care Connect Suicide Prevention Coordinator will support local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to improve access to culturally safe suicide prevention services and to co‑design and implement a Network Suicide Prevention Plan in partnership with Community and stakeholders. Key Responsibilities 1. Service Delivery Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to improve access to culturally safe and appropriate suicide prevention services Build and maintain strong relationships with key sector stakeholders, including service providers and referral pathways Establish and coordinate a suicide prevention network involving: Community leaders Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander‑led services Whole‑of‑population suicide prevention services Local community organisations Coordinate the co‑design and development of a Network Suicide Prevention Plan in partnership with Community 2. Planning and Reporting Participate in monitoring and evaluation activities as outlined in NACCHO’s Monitoring and Evaluation Framework , including accurate data collection Participate in program evaluation with funding and accreditation bodies Maintain accurate client and program records Collect and submit data and reports as required by: Department of Health and Human Services MDAS Ensure all reports, project plans, and related documentation are submitted at least one week prior to due dates 3. Stakeholder Management Foster and maintain relationships with internal and external agencies to support client and organisational outcomes Attend relevant meetings, forums, and education programs Stay informed of current developments, research, and treatment models and integrate learnings into MDAS practice 4. Corporate Responsibilities Support and promote values that respect historical and contemporary Aboriginal cultures, recognising the special connection Aboriginal people have with the State Promote compliance with relevant legislation and MDAS policies and procedures Assist with and support internal and external audit processes Key Selection Criteria Service Delivery, Organisation, and Planning Extensive knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health Demonstrated experience delivering health services in a culturally safe manner Ability to undertake other duties consistent with skill level and classification Communication and Interpersonal Skills Ability to liaise effectively with staff and external agencies for program development Strong skills in communicating, consulting, negotiating, and advocating with Aboriginal and non‑Aboriginal stakeholders Excellent written and verbal communication skills Demonstrated understanding of relevant legislation and policy frameworks Qualifications and Other Requirements Mental health qualifications and/or demonstrated relevant experience Willingness to undertake further study as required Current Victorian Driver’s Licence Current Working with Children Check Current National Police Check MDAS Key Capabilities Managing Difficult Conversations Ability to prepare for, initiate, and conduct sensitive or complex conversations respectfully and constructively Resilience Maintains a positive attitude, adapts to change, and consistently delivers quality work Continuous Improvement Ensures work meets or exceeds standards and identifies opportunities to improve processes Develop Capability Builds knowledge and capability in others to achieve performance expectations and community outcomes Workplace Culture and Ethical Leadership Demonstrates respect for Aboriginal culture Promotes inclusivity, accountability, empathy, and a positive organisational culture MDAS strongly encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply for this position. MDAS is a child safe organisation and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children at all times. Employment is subject to satisfactory National Police Check and Working with Children Check prior to commencement. To apply online, please click on the appropriate link below. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Simranjeet Kaur Arora on , quoting Ref No. 1276089.
