Who we are

The MJD Foundation partners with and supports Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander families living with Machado Joseph Disease (MJD) and Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 7 (SCA7) to live fulfilling and rewarding lives. The MJDF is an Aboriginal organisation and we take our core values from combining best practice western and traditional cultural knowledge in the ‘Our-way’ approach. By providing flexible and culturally responsive care based on a strong foundation of enduring relationships, we aim to provide families living with MJD specialist care and support, working together to stay stronger for longer. We are currently recruiting for a full-time Ataxia Clinic Nurse based in Darwin.

Our Way

From grassroots on Groote Eylandt, and under the guidance of remarkable leadership from senior Aboriginal community members, we developed ‘Our Way’. ‘Our Way’ is a self-determination approach based on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander way of experiencing the world and preferred practices. ‘Our Way’ governs all that we do in research, education, clinical and community services as well as the MJD Foundation’s governance.

‘Our Way’ means we are family and client led.

The position

The Ataxia Clinic Nurse position is responsible for ensuring that the clinical and medical issues experienced by clients living with MJD and SCA7 are effectively followed up and appropriate management strategies are implemented. Internally, the role will work closely with the MJD Foundation Consultant Neurologist, the multidisciplinary Therapy team, Genetics and Community Services teams, Aboriginal clients, carers and families. Externally the role will require collaboration and engagement with acute and primary health care providers such as General Practitioners, Hospital, Community, Health and Disability Services.

This position is based in Darwin and will require travel to remote communities and Queensland.

Selection Criteria

1. Relevant tertiary qualifications in nursing and current registration with AHPRA.
2. At least 3 years of clinical experience in a neurological and/or rehabilitation setting;
3. Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities and cultures from a historical and contemporary perspective;
4. The ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and in accordance with community protocols and customs;
5. Experience in Complex Case Management;
6. Experience working with the NDIS;
7. Experience participating in clinical research, data collection and -analysis;
8. A commitment to person and family centred practice and working within the MJD Foundation ‘Our Way’ approach;
9. The ability to pro-actively support, mentor and train (non-clinical) staff, clients and other stakeholders;
10. Familiarity with public health theory such as the social determinants of health.
11. Highly developed ability to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders and develop strong and collaborative relationships;
12. Demonstrated experience with a range of computer software and good computer skills.

Desirable Criteria:

1. Understanding of the mechanisms and processes of Spinocerebellar ataxia.
2. Lived experience in remote Aboriginal community settings.

Who you are

Do you want to make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal families living with Machado Joseph disease or SCA7? Are you an experienced nurse looking for a diverse role with a passion for culturally responsive care?

It is important that you demonstrate that you are self-motivated, pro-active and that you understand what it means to work ‘Our Way’. You will have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively and in a culturally appropriate manner with Aboriginal Australians. You enjoy providing clinical support and advice to a range of stakeholders, and you are always looking for ways to improve care and communication. The expertise that you bring to the role may be varied, including skills that you have developed in your previous roles, and your life experience as a member of the community and a user of the service system.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply!

What we offer

1. A supportive work environment and continuous professional development;
2. Above award level pay rate for the right person;
3. Tax free fringe benefit up to $15,899 per annum, plus meal entertainment benefit up to $2650 p.a.;
4. 6 weeks annual leave;
5. Free car parking;
6. One day paid wellbeing day and gift;
7. A holistic workplace that offers flexibility.

The MJD Foundation values diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We welcome unique contributions and perspectives of all people to ensure our workforce is representative of the communities we work with and live in. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.

A position description is attached.