Join our Team
Community Mental Health Practitioner - Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
- Bring your cultural knowledge to support people in their mental health recovery
- Part time 30.4 hours/week until 30 June 2026 (possible extension) | 24/7 Rotating Roster
- Based in Cairns (Gimuy, on the lands of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji people)
This position is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only under Section 7 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld).
Mind Australia is one of Australia’s largest providers of community-managed psychosocial services, supporting people experiencing mental health and wellbeing challenges to find help, hope and purpose in their lives. Operating for more than 45 years and employing more than 1,300 staff around Australia, Mind is a leading employer of people with lived experience of mental health challenges, recognising their unique ability to connect with and motivate clients and guide recovery.
About the role
The Community Mental Health Practitioner - Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander provides culturally safe, recovery-oriented support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experiencing mental ill health. Working within the Community Care Unit (CCU), you will deliver personalised, strengths-based support that recognises Social and Emotional Wellbeing, including the importance of connection to Country, culture, kinship and community.
You will work alongside clients, families and carers to support recovery goals, daily living skills and independent living, while strengthening connections to culture and community in ways that are self-determined and meaningful.
About the service
The Community Care Unit (CCU) is a longer-term residential service providing intensive treatment and recovery support for people experiencing serious mental health challenges. The service supports individuals to stabilise their mental health, build daily living skills, and transition safely back into the community from a hospital environment. Clients have access to staff 24/7 and are supported by a multidisciplinary team including clinical staff, Community Mental Health Practitioners and Peer Workers.
Key responsibilities
- Deliver culturally safe, person-centred and recovery-oriented support.
- Support clients to reconnect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Elders, kinship groups and services.
- Facilitate one-to-one supports, group programs and daily living skill development.
- Build strong, respectful relationships with local communities, guided by cultural protocols.
- Work collaboratively with families, carers and multidisciplinary teams.
- Support the implementation of Mind’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) at a service level.
- Identify and raise cultural safety considerations to support improved outcomes.
What you’ll bring
- Applicant must identify as an Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander person.
- Minimum Certificate IV in Mental Health, Community Services or related field (or willingness to work towards)
- Expertise supporting people with mental ill health, complex needs and interacting with families and carers.
- Ability to build respectful relationships with communities, Elders and stakeholders.
- Valid CPR and First Aid Certifications.
Benefits
- Generous not-for-profit salary packaging - up to $15,899 p.a. to reduce taxable income and cover living expenses.
- Access to ceremonial/cultural leave - 3 days personal leave + up to 10 days unpaid leave.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - support for you and your immediate family.
- Fitness Passport - access to a wide range of fitness facilities for you and your family.
- Professional development - ongoing training and career growth opportunities.
Interested?
To apply online visit Mind Careers - reference number 499362. Online applications must be submitted by 11pm Monday 11 May 2026. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as the advertisement may close early if a suitable candidate is identified.
For more information, please contact:
Emma Sansom - Service Manager, Cairns CCU and ASUSD
Emma.Sansom@mindaustralia.org.au
Mind is committed to a barrier-free recruitment process. If you require any adjustments to complete your application, please email hr@mindaustralia.org.au
Position Description
PD Community Mental Health Practitioner - Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander (CCU) 20230130.pdf
The successful applicant is required to complete comprehensive reference and background checking prior to employment, including a Working with Children Check, and NDIS Workers Screening Check.
