APS 5 – Community and Peer Worker
Location: Darwin, NT
Classification: APS Level 5
Employment Type: Contract
Security Clearance: Ability to obtain a Baseline Security Clearance
Citizenship: Australian Citizenship required
Hourly rate: $50.00 - $55.00 p/h + super and penalty rates
Contract term: 24 months + 12 month extension option

APS 5 Community and Peer WorkerPosition Overview
The APS 5 Community and Peer Worker role is responsible for delivering peer-led support services under a recovery-oriented model of care. This position supports current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families through lived experience-informed engagement and advocacy, contributing to improved mental health outcomes and wellbeing across the veteran community.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide personalised peer support services aligned with a recovery model to individuals navigating challenges across their lifespan.
• Collaboratively identify client goals and needs, including housing and counselling, and assist in the development of individualised Action Plans.
• Draw upon personal lived experience to foster rapport, provide validation, and promote empowerment in others’ recovery journeys.
• Work within a multidisciplinary team, actively participating in case reviews and co-facilitating group programs to support collaborative service delivery.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders to promote services, reduce barriers to care, and increase awareness of mental health support.
• Demonstrate and model resilience, empathy, and wellness in all interactions, in line with APS Values and Code of Conduct.
• Complete accurate, timely, and confidential documentation and reporting in accordance with policies and systems requirements.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, including lived experience peer networks, supervision, and training to enhance evidence-based practice.

Key Skills and Attributes

• Demonstrated ability to use lived experience in a respectful, supportive, and educational manner.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to promote lived experience values and trauma-informed approaches.
• High levels of integrity, accountability, and emotional intelligence.
• Capacity to build rapport and maintain professional boundaries with diverse individuals and communities.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in a team-based, multidisciplinary environment.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

• Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (or willingness to obtain).
• Previous experience in peer support, mental health, mentoring, coaching, or related fields.
• Knowledge of military life or understanding of challenges faced by the veteran community.

Mandatory Requirements

• Personal lived experience of military service or military family life and a mental health recovery journey, either personally or as a carer/support person.
• Current Working with Children and/or Vulnerable People Check (or ability to obtain before commencement).
• Australian Citizenship (as required under section 22(8) of the Public Service Act 1999).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Baseline Security Clearance.
• Willingness to undergo a pre-engagement screening check, in line with Australian Government security policies.