About The Team

The Student Wellbeing Counselling Service is dedicated to supporting the mental health, wellbeing and success of Murdoch University students. Through evidence-based counselling, wellbeing initiatives and proactive support, the team helps students navigate challenges and thrive throughout their university journey.

Based at the South Street Campus and providing services across all Murdoch University campuses, the team works within a diverse and inclusive environment that values collaboration, cultural responsiveness and student-centred care. Together, we are committed to creating a supportive community where every student can succeed.

Your New Role!  

As the University Counsellor (First Nations), you will play a key role in supporting the mental health, wellbeing, and success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at Murdoch University. Reporting to the Counselling Team Manager, you will provide culturally safe, confidential, and evidence-based counselling services through individual support, group programs, workshops, and wellbeing initiatives.

Working as part of the Student Wellbeing Counselling Service and in partnership with the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre, you will build strong relationships with students and stakeholders to promote wellbeing, enhance engagement, and contribute to a culturally responsive and inclusive university environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide culturally safe, evidence-based counselling and wellbeing support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through individual counselling, group programs, workshops, and other wellbeing initiatives.
• Deliver trauma-informed assessments and therapeutic interventions that recognise and respect the diverse cultural backgrounds, strengths, and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
• Collaborate with students, colleagues, the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre, and external stakeholders to support student wellbeing, respond to complex and crisis situations, and contribute to culturally responsive practices across the University.

Please refer to the Position Description for further details.

What We Offer You!

This Continuous | Part time (15 hours per week) attracts a remuneration of $101K – $133K (pro rata) plus 17% employer superannuation contributions.   

You’ll join a dynamic and talented team where diversity and innovation thrive. Our Silver-tier status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), awarded in 2025, reflects our commitment to LGBTIQA+ inclusion, equity, and creating a safe, welcoming environment for all. We strive to be the university of choice for First Nations peoples, honouring Indigenous knowledge. Sustainability is central to our community and guided by clear, confident leadership, we are working toward an ambitious future with goals of net zero emissions and zero waste by 2030.

As well as the flexibility to maintain a work life balance, our staff enjoy a vibrant, natural campus with world-class facilities, along with a variety of benefits, including:

• Flexible work arrangements
• Cultural Load and allowance - providing up to $8,944 per year to First Nations employees who are contributing cultural knowledge and perspectives beyond the scope of their role
• Indigenous Language Allowance
• Salary packaging options – such as purchasing leave, gym membership, car parking permit
• Employee Assistance Program
• On-campus services and facilities, such as a Childcare Centre, Gym, Vet Hospital, and Chiropractic Clinic

For further information, check out our benefits and services page!

Join us!

Please apply online via the Apply Now button, along with submitting the following documents to support your application -

• A cover letter including a statement addressing the selection criteria (with reference to the Position Description)
• Your most recent resume (CV)

What you’ll bring to the role:

• Relevant qualifications in psychology, social work, counselling, creative arts therapy, or a related discipline, with eligibility for professional registration or membership.
• Experience providing counselling services, including crisis intervention and support for individuals experiencing complex wellbeing concerns.
• A strong understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, and contemporary issues.
• Experience delivering culturally safe and responsive services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
• A current C Class Driver's Licence
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Please note, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a criminal record check and have a valid working with children check or the ability to register for one in accordance with the University's Criminal Record Screening Procedure and Employee Background Checks Procedure. 

Applicants should refer to the Position Description for further details on the work requirements, duties, skills and experience required for this role. Applications sent by post or email will not be accepted.

Please note visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants are expected to have current and valid work rights in Australia.

Please see the Applicant Guide for more information. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process. 

Contact Us 

For enquiries about the opportunity on offer please reach out to Athalie Phau, Manager, Counselling Service, [email protected] and quote JR105821 as the reference. 

Applications Close on 6 October 2026 (11:59pm AWST) 

The University reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement at any time.  

Murdoch University acknowledges the different perspectives, skills and experience that people from different backgrounds bring to strengthen its workforce. Murdoch University is committed to enhancing diversity in all its forms and strongly encourages suitably qualified candidates from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people with disability, people of CaLD background and people of diverse genders to apply for this important position. 

Murdoch University values workplace diversity, promotes inclusion, and strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, women, and individuals with disability. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process.