Description

Shape the Future of Mental Health Care in the Wheatbelt

The Director of Clinical Services – Mental Health (DCSMH) plays a critical leadership role at the heart of the Wheatbelt Mental Health Service, driving excellence in clinical governance, service delivery, and strategic growth. This is a high-impact position within a genuinely supportive and collaborative team environment—one that values innovation, shared leadership, and positive workplace culture.

Working in close partnership with the Regional Manager and as a key member of the Mental Health Executive Advisory Group, the Clinical Director provides strategic and clinical leadership to a committed multidisciplinary medical workforce of 4.5 FTE, including Consultants, Registrars, and locum staff. The role blends hands-on clinical governance with broader strategic responsibilities, offering the opportunity to oversee and champion transformative initiatives across the mental health landscape.

A major focus of the position is the continued development and expansion of the Wheatbelt Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drug Consultation Liaison Service. With a strong emphasis on innovation and community impact, the Clinical Director leads strategic planning and implementation to extend the reach, responsiveness, and effectiveness of this essential service for regional communities.

The DCSMH also plays a pivotal role in growing future capability through active involvement in the Rural Psychiatry Training Program. By supporting and mentoring the next generation of psychiatrists, the role contributes directly to workforce sustainability and the long-term delivery of high-quality mental health care across the region.

This is a rare opportunity to combine senior clinical leadership, strategic influence, and meaningful community impact—making a lasting difference to mental health outcomes in the Wheatbelt.

Requirements

About Wheatbelt Mental Health Services

Wheatbelt Mental Health Service provides confidential, quality, community mental health care to people of all ages in coastal and Wheatbelt communities. With compassion, optimism and cultural understanding, we provide a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth to make a difference in people’s lives, so they feel valued and connected. The team is supported by a great group of professionals that provide comprehensive assessment and treatment for people with mental health problems. The service can also provide training and support to other organisations and professionals.

The Wheatbelt Mental Health Service is a team of Mental Health Professionals including Consultant Psychiatrists, Clinical Psychologists, Social Workers, Child and Adolescent Professionals, Aboriginal Workers and Community Mental Health Nurses. Locally based, multi-disciplinary teams are in Northam, Gingin, Merredin, and Narrogin. Regular visits are made to outlying areas within the region to meet community needs. Outreach is supported by telephone consultation and videoconferencing. Clinical liaison is provided to hospitals within the region.

Our ideal applicant should possess:

• Unconditional General and Specialist registration by the Medical Board of Australia
• Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (or equivalent).
• Extensive knowledge, clinical leadership experience, and implementing & evaluating clinical governance systems.
• Current or relevant specialist experience in Australia.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, including reporting, negotiation and leadership skills.