Forensic Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Counsellor

Bayside Health is a public health service delivering high-quality care across every stage of life for close to 1.2 million people living in metropolitan Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, Koo Wee Rup, Bass Coast and Southern Gippsland.

We have more than 15 main sites, including hospitals, centres and clinics that provide comprehensive care from welcoming newborns to supporting older people and a full range of services in between.

More than 22,000 dedicated staff are focussed on providing exceptional, equitable, and locally connected care through shared expertise, compassion, and a commitment to continuous growth. Education and training are central to staff development as we encourage all employees to strive and thrive.

Bayside Health was formed following the merger of Alfred Health, Bass Coast Health, Gippsland Southern Health Service, Kooweerup Regional Health Service and Peninsula Health on 1 January 2026.

• Full Time, Limited Term until April 2027 - 80 hours per fortnight
• Located in Frankston & Mornington
• Classification: Community Development Worker Class 2B Year 1 - Year 7 (XX7 - ON15)* plus super

The Team & Role

Join Bayside Health's Alcohol and Other Drugs Program and become part of a passionate, multidisciplinary team dedicated to improving the lives of individuals, families and communities across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. Based at the Tarnbuk Centre, the Forensic Counsellor plays a vital role in delivering evidence-based counselling and therapeutic interventions for people experiencing alcohol and other drug-related challenges who are involved with the justice system. Working collaboratively with clinicians and service partners, you will provide person-centred care that supports meaningful recovery outcomes, including reduced substance use and related harm, improved mental health, and enhanced quality of life. This is a rewarding opportunity for a skilled clinician who is committed to continuous improvement, collaborative practice, and making a positive impact through compassionate, high-quality care.

Please click here to see the Position Description.

Skills & Experience Required

• Tertiary qualifications appropriate to the position such as social work, counselling or currently working
  towards qualification
• Demonstrated experience working with at-risk and vulnerable people with dual diagnosis
• Demonstrated commitment to quality improvement activities.
• Well-developed written, verbal, interpersonal and computer literacy and communication skills.

Benefits

• Step into state-of-the-art facilities
• Take advantage of low-cost onsite parking
• Boost your take-home pay with generous salary packaging & novated leasing
• Unlock exclusive discounts at top retailers and dining spots
• Stay fit with access to premium gyms via Fitness Passport
• Feel supported with our holistic Employee Assistance Program
• Grow your skills through top-tier education and training partners
• Join a vibrant, collaborative team led by passionate leaders

Next Steps

Applicants must provide a Cover Letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria to be considered for the role.

For role specific information please contact Robert White ******@phcn.vic.gov.au

If you experience any issues signing in or registering, please feel welcome to contact the Talent Acquisition Team at ***************@phcn.vic.gov.au or 03 9784 2*** (option 1).

The role ceases advertising on 21 August 2026: Please note that applications will be considered upon receipt and that this job posting may close early if a sufficient number of applications are received, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Thank you for your interest in this role. Bayside Health (Peninsula Health Care Group) is regularly advertising positions across the health service so please take the time to review other relevant opportunities by going to https://www.peninsulahealth.org.au/careers/

Additional Information

Bayside Health is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We encourage applications from individuals from all cultural backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We also provide a safe and supportive workplace for people with all abilities.

To find out more about our recruitment processes, compliance obligations and to prepare your application to join our team please visit: https://www.peninsulahealth.org.au/careers/working-preparing-employment/

*Please refer to Allied Health Professionals (Victorian Public Sector) (Single Interest Employers) Enterprise Agreement 2021 - 2026 salary circular for salary range. Sub-grading will be based on years of experience. For further information on salary range classifications and grading please refer to the following page: https://www.peninsulahealth.org.au/careers/working-with-us/salary-rates/

It is strongly recommended that individuals in this role remain up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Join Bayside Health and help us to deliver healthy lives for everyone, through sustainable, innovative, compassionate care.