Project Officer/Counsellor

• Be part of a supportive & collaborative team
• Salary packaging options available
• 14-week paid parental leave after 12 months of employment
• Paid Christmas closure
About the Organisation
The Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) was established in 1973 to address the specific health needs of Victorian Aboriginal people, families and communities. 

VAHS was established by local Aboriginal people, who showed courage and shared a vision for Aboriginal people to determine our own health journey. This is expressed as one of the fundamental rights of all peoples.

VAHS core principles are Community Control, where the users (our community) are the owners of VAHS. The governance of which is provided by a Board of Directors elected by the VAHS members. 

Connected to this is the principle of self-determination whereas the right for Aboriginal people to have and run their own services.

With over 350 staff, VAHS has expanded to four clinics across Metropolitan Melbourne (Fitzroy, Preston, South Morang, St Albans). This includes a range of social & emotional well-being services and a residential youth drug and alcohol facility in Hastings. 

As well as providing a variety of health services, VAHS is committed to supporting the well-being of the community through a holistic view that includes a variety of streams, including contributions towards and organisation of  health related community events and activities. VAHS is also committed to research into the ongoing health and well-being needs of the community. VAHS applies the principle of data sovereignty to our research.

VAHS is a child safe organisation, committed to child safety and wellbeing, and recruits’ staff in accordance with the Child Safe Standards Victoria.

About the Role

VAHS EAP was established due to the need for Aboriginal staff to be able to access culturally safe and trauma informed services that are not readily available through mainstream services.  VAHS EAP currently provides services to Aboriginal staff in ACCHOs; government department and mainstream organisations

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Project Officer/Counsellor is primarily responsible for the external marketing and growth of the program and the service and operational effectiveness of the program, including for VAHS staff. The role will also provide direct EAP counselling services alongside the existing counsellors.

Key Selection Criteria
To be considered for this role, you will need to demonstrate:

• Understanding and commitment to Aboriginal Community Control, including the ability to understand VAHS’ philosophy, values and principles and translate these into practice.
• Experience delivering counselling services, with a strong understanding of trauma-informed and culturally safe practice.
• Project experience, preferably within social and emotional wellbeing, counselling, health, community services or a related field.
• Contribute to the growth and development of a service, including building relationships, identifying opportunities and engaging with external organisations and stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with clients, organisations and internal stakeholders.
• The ability to manage reporting, administration and service requirements, including monitoring performance, preparing reports and supporting financial processes.
• Commitment to health, safety and wellbeing, including a strong commitment to child safety and maintaining culturally safe and respectful environments.
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively, managing competing priorities while contributing positively to a multidisciplinary team.
• Relevant qualification in counselling, with a minimum of a Diploma of Counselling or equivalent.