The Department of Communities brings together the services and functions of disability services, child protection and family support, housing, community initiatives and regional services reform.

Communities is a nationally recognised Accredited Carer Friendly Employer through the Carers + Employers program. The program defines best practice standards by creating a carer friendly workplace, enabling staff to balance work and care, while continuing to contribute to the wellbeing of individuals, families and the community.

The Opportunity

As a Clinical, Counselling or Forensic Psychologist, you will perform the following duties within the framework of the Australian Psychological Society’s Code of Ethics using clinical expertise to:

• Advise and consult with Departmental staff on psychological aspects of casework and community interventions.
• Carry out psychological assessments of children, adults and families.
• Undertake preventative and therapeutic interventions at individual, family, group and community levels.
• Prepare and present psychological reports for Courts, case conferences and other relevant purposes.
• Develop, prepare and present training for Departmental staff, other government and non-government agencies and community groups and also advises other staff on training matters.
• Develop, apply and evaluate preventative and therapeutic interventions in working with Departmental clients and community groups.

The attached Job Description Form (JDF) provides more information about the position. For further information we encourage you to contact Gary Lindsay, Senior Consultant Psychologist, on 0407 424 214.

There are currently 3 permanent positions available for immediate filling in the following locations:

• Rockingham
• Goldfields
• West Kimberley

There is an opportunity to relocate to the West Kimberley and Goldfields or to be based in Fremantle with regular travel to the region required.

Suitable applicants will be placed into a pool, from which appointments to the current permanent vacancies will be made.  Applicants remaining in the pool will be considered for any future permanent or fixed term vacancies that arise across Department of Communities locations throughout Western Australia within the next 12 months.

To be eligible for a permanent appointment to the Western Australian public sector it is essential that you are an Australian citizen or have permanent residency status in Australia. To be eligible for a fixed term appointment you must have documentary evidence of your entitlement to live and work in Australia for the period of the contract.

Psychologist Specified Calling Level 3: A 2-year post graduate masters degree in Clinical, Counselling or Forensic Psychology or approved equivalent and be eligible for registration with the Psychology Board of Australia and specialist endorsement with AHPRA for this position.

Join the Department of Communities

Apply online by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button (above and below) and provide the following documents in Word or PDF format only:

• A current comprehensive resume/CV.
• A cover letter outlining the following:
  • Citizenship or residency status,
  • Qualifications completed,
  • Current AHPRA registration and endorsement status,
  • Work location(s) you’re seeking to be appointed to.
  • Availability to travel regionally approximately every third week, if seeking Fremantle based service to the West Kimberley or Goldfields,
  • Confirmation of valid WA Drivers License or other Drivers License,
  • Confirmation of ability or otherwise to attend an interview in person at our Head Office in Fremantle 5 Newman Court Fremantle Tuesday 18 February (preferred) or Wednesday 19 February 2025.
• A two [2] page written application addressing the specific Essential Work RelatedRequirements (Selection Criteria) as stated on the JDF with relevant examples. 
• Specified Callings Level 3: Criteria 1, 3 & 5.

Applicants who are short listed will be assessed on all the Work RelatedRequirements (Selection Criteria) during the selection process.

For technical difficulties while applying online, general recruitment enquiries, or to request any document in an alternative format, please contact [email protected], using the subject line: ​Clinical - Counselling or Forensic Psychologist enquiry via EthicalJobs.

We can also be contacted via the National Relay Service on the following numbers:

TTY/voice calls - 133 677

Speak & Listen - 1300 555 727

SMS relay - 0423 677 767

Integrity and Honesty

The public sector is built on a strong foundation of integrity where employees act ethically, and public sector bodies promote and maintain integrity. 

In line with Communities policies, applicants may be asked for consent to undergo criminal record screening and integrity checks during the application process. For more information on these requirements, click here.  

Equity and Diversity

The Department of Communities embraces diversity and firmly believes that the best services come from a workplace, where varied viewpoints are welcomed and encouraged every day. We are committed to creating an equitable and diverse workforce, where we encourage applications from people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, women and youth.

If you have any access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, or alternative methods of communication, please contact HR Recruitment.

Want to join us?

Visit the main advertisement on the WA Government Jobs Board (here) and search Pool Ref COM38924. We look forward to receiving your application!

Applicants who would like assistance with your application, please contact Jobs and Skills WA on 13 64 64.

Lodgement is system generated. Any emailed applications or late submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted.