ABOUT US
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.
Why this role matters:
The Salvation Army Youth Services provides critical support to young people aged 16–25 who are facing a range of complex challenges, including mental health issues, trauma, homelessness, substance use, and family violence. We offer a safe space where young people can access psychological support, group programs, and holistic care.
About the role:
Are you a passionate mental health professional ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people? HeadFyrst is a pioneering mental health initiative operating across six headspace centres in South-Western and Western Sydney. We provide integrated, evidence-based psychological support tailored to the unique needs of young people. Our clinicians work collaboratively with medical and allied health professionals to deliver holistic, harm-minimisation care in safe, inclusive, and youth-friendly environments.
This is a Full-time position (38 hours a week) based in Blacktown. Salary is in accordance with the Health Professionals and Support Services Award – Level 3.
How you will make an impact
- Conduct comprehensive psychosocial and psychometric assessments (e.g. K10, DASS21, SDS)
- Develop collaborative case formulations and individualised treatment plans
- Deliver evidence-based interventions including CBT, psychoeducation, harm minimisation, and solution-focused therapy
- Engage effectively with young people, families, and caregivers to support recovery
- Provide appropriate referrals and coordinate with internal and external services
- Maintain accurate clinical documentation and data collection
- Participate in clinical reviews, team meetings, supervision, and CPD activities
- Promote HeadFyrst within the mental health and AOD sectors
- Assess and manage risk using established protocols and procedures
- Build and maintain relationships with local services and referral networks
- Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team across headspace sites
- Represent HeadFyrst in sector forums and community engagement activities
- Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation
- Attend regular team meetings and one-on-one supervision with your line manager
- Adhere to professional codes of conduct (PsychBA and Salvation Army)
- Undertake ad hoc duties as directed by the Program Manager or Regional Manager
What you will bring
- Fully or provisionally registered Psychologist or Allied Health Professional (AHPRA)
- Bachelor’s degree with Honours and acceptance into a recognised registration pathway
- Demonstrated experience providing evidence-based treatment in therapeutic settings
- Clinical experience working with youth aged 16–25
- Strong understanding of trauma-informed care and cross-cultural practice
- Experience supporting young people affected by AOD use, trauma, mental health issues, and social challenges
- Ability to work with diverse populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and culturally and linguistically diverse groups
- Knowledge of WHS obligations and commitment to safe practice
- A current NSW Working with Children Check (WWCC) and Driver’s Licence
- Strong computer and data management skills
Desirable:
- Experience in youth AOD treatment contexts
- Familiarity with headspace service models and multidisciplinary collaboration
What We Offer
- Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefit.
- Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities.
- Sorry Business and Ceremonial leave (up to 10 days)
- Becoming part of our Burra Burra Network – a pastoral care network where regular group and topic-specific yarning circles are hosted to bring an awareness of the support and opportunities available
- Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport
- Ongoing training and development opportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency.
- Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts.
How to apply
If you are ready to make a lasting impact in the lives of young people, we would love to hear from you.
Click APPLY NOW and submit your resume and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.
The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.
We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration