AOD Counsellor
Job No:
306020
Location:
South Hedland, WA
- Support long-term recovery and healing through culturally grounded AOD counselling
- Enjoy a great salary + allowances and salary packaging
- Enjoy 6 weeks’ leave, a $600 airfare allowance, and community travel opportunities
- Join a values-driven team creating lasting impact in the Pilbara
Bloodwood Tree: A Trusted Voice in Community
Bloodwood Tree Association Inc. is a respected not-for-profit organisation based in South Hedland, WA, providing culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal people in the Pilbara region. With over four decades of dedicated service, the organisation delivers vital programs in alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselling, employment and training, driver education, and homelessness support.
As a proud Aboriginal organisation, Bloodwood Tree works closely with Elders, regional partners, and government bodies to build brighter futures through real, lasting community impact. Its purpose-driven team leads with compassion and cultural integrity, making a genuine difference across the region.
To learn more, visit www.bloodwoodtree.org.au
Walking Beside Community, Every Step
Bloodwood Tree is looking for a full-time AOD Counsellor based in South Hedland, WA.
You’ll deliver client-centred alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselling services and support across the region, helping individuals and families heal, reconnect and move forward. Reporting to the AOD Team Leader, you’ll work closely with clients and stakeholders, building trust and pathways to recovery.
More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Providing individual and group counselling sessions for clients experiencing AOD issues
- Conducting assessments and developing treatment plans
- Facilitating culturally appropriate education and awareness programs
- Supporting outreach in remote communities such as Marble Bar, Warralong, and Yandeyarra
- Maintaining accurate case notes, treatment records and reports
- Collaborating with other providers and stakeholders for holistic client support
- Attending regular supervision (internal and external)
The Right Person, Not Just the Right Skills
To succeed in this role, you must hold a Diploma in Counselling (minimum) and have demonstrated, hands-on experience delivering AOD counselling services.
You will also bring:
- Experience conducting AOD assessments, developing treatment plans and delivering therapeutic interventions
- Demonstrated experience working with First Nations peoples, along with appropriate cultural sensitivity
- Confidence in managing a caseload independently while working within a collaborative team
- Experience supporting clients impacted by substance use, trauma and complex social challenges
- A current National Police Clearance and Working with Children Check (or ability to obtain)
- A valid WA Driver’s Licence
We are looking for capability and demonstrated counselling practice in an AOD setting, with the confidence to step into the role and contribute from early on.
You’ll thrive in this position if you are:
- Calm and grounded in high-complexity situations
- Culturally aware and respectful in your approach
- Strong in professional boundaries and ethical decision-making
- Clear and thorough in your case documentation
- Committed to walking alongside clients in long-term recovery
This role is suited to an AOD counsellor who is ready to contribute meaningfully to community-based recovery work and create lasting change across the Pilbara.
Your First Few Weeks
Your first month will focus on learning and connection. You’ll receive guided training, shadow experienced team members, and gradually begin building your own caseload. You’ll meet key stakeholders and learn Bloodwood Tree’s culturally informed, community-first approach from the ground up.
Your Work, Recognised and Respected
This role offers more than a competitive salary — it offers impact, support and meaningful community relationships.
- Enjoy a great salary + $1.76/hour district allowance
- 6 weeks’ annual leave + 12 days’ personal leave
- $600 airfare allowance annually (after 12 months)
- Access to a work vehicle during work hours
- Salary packaging and superannuation
- Professional development + external supervision
- Fixed-term contract to 30 June 2028, with potential to extend
Be Part of the Story - Join Bloodwood Tree
If you're a compassionate, culturally aware counsellor ready to make a meaningful difference in the Pilbara, we want to hear from you.
APPLY NOW and walk alongside community in healing and recovery!