RN Drug and Alcohol

We are seeking compassionate and skilled Drug and Alcohol Nurses to join our multidisciplinary healthcare team team at the Melbourne Immigration Detention Centre. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing substance use challenges while ensuring a safe and supportive setting, within a primary care framework.

Work Days & Hours:  Monday to Sunday - No night shifts!

• AM:  8:00 am – 4:00 pm

To work within this role, you must either

• Hold a postgraduate qualification in AOD with a minimum of 5 years’ AOD specialty experience, or
• Have a minimum of 7 years’ specialist AOD nursing experience if they do not hold a postgraduate qualification.

How You’ll Make an Impact! 

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of individuals with drug and alcohol-related needs.
• Develop, implement, and review care plans tailored to each individual.
• Administer medications safely, including detoxification protocols when required.
• Provide education and support on harm reduction, relapse prevention, and recovery strategies.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mental health professionals, security staff, and external services.

Let’s talk about you!

• Current AHPRA Registration as a Registered Nurse (Division 1), with either a postgraduate qualification in AOD and a minimum of 5 years’ AOD specialty experience, or a minimum of 7 years’ specialist AOD nursing experience if no postgraduate qualification is held.
• Proven experience in substance use, drug and alcohol nursing, or related healthcare setting. Post graduate qualifications in AOD desirable but not essential.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse populations.
• Experience in high-security or detention settings is highly desirable but not essential
• Calm, confident, and clinically sound under pressure
• Strong communication skills and a non-judgemental approach
• Passionate about equity, access, and high-quality care

Why you’ll love this role

• Join a well-respected Australian healthcare organisation with 1,000+ clinicians across medical, nursing, and allied health
• Make a real clinical impact with time to assess, engage, and build genuine therapeutic relationships (not just crisis care)
• Deliver holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive care within a structured, well-governed environment
• Work within a highly supportive multidisciplinary team that genuinely values nursing expertise
• Access ongoing training, clinical supervision, and opportunities to develop skills in complex care settings
• 7% discount on BUPA Private Health Insurance
• Paid birthday leave 🎉
• Salary packaging & novated leasing via Smartgroup
• Free onsite parking 🚗

If you have any questions or further assistance about the role, please contact Katie Longhurst on katie.longhurst@primaryhsa.com.au

Veterans are encouraged to apply. At HCA we are committed to embracing diversity and committed to providing a safe working environment.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.