About Burnet Institute
Burnet Institute is a leading Australian medical research and public health organization working to achieve better health for vulnerable communities in Australia and internationally. In Papua New Guinea, Burnet has been implementing health research and development programs for almost 20 years, with offices in Port Moresby, Kokopo and Western Province.
About the HEAL-PNG Project
HEAL-PNG is a three-year clinical trial funded by the NHMRC and the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases (GACD). The project evaluates an innovative model of care that integrates non-communicable disease (NCD) screening and management within existing HIV and TB clinics in Morobe and East New Britain provinces. The goal is to improve NCD care through enhanced screening, patient education, adherence support via peer counselling, and simplified management protocols.
About the Role
Lead Counsellors are responsible for providing a range of patient education and counselling services for people on treatment for multiple long-term conditions, which means two or more of the following: diabetes, asthma, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, HIV, TB.
Additionally, Counsellors facilitate patient referrals, ensuring linkages to various care and support services, and lead peer-support group sessions.
The Lead Counsellor mentors and supports the Peer Counsellors and provides counselling support for people with complex needs, referred by the Peer Counsellors and other staff.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide basic educational, emotional and social wellbeing support to people receiving treatment for TB, HIV and other long-term conditions.
- Facilitate peer support groups and health education sessions for patients, families and communities.
- Work collaboratively with clinical, research, TB and HIV teams to provide person-centred care.
- Facilitate referrals to appropriate internal and external health and support services.
- Ensure accurate documentation, counselling records, patient information and program data are maintained.
- Prepare reports on counselling, patient support and community engagement activities as required.
- Support health education and community engagement activities and build effective relationships with relevant services and organisations.
- Mentor, support and provide feedback to Peer Counsellors, including assisting with training and professional development.
- Participate in case management, adherence and other relevant team meetings.
- Participate in ongoing professional development, particularly in counselling, health education and related areas.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
- Minimum two years’ experience in counselling or social work, preferably within a health setting.
- Strong knowledge of, or personal lived experience with, TB, HIV or non-communicable diseases.
- Demonstrated compassion, empathy and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Experience in leadership, team supervision and reporting.
- Ability to work independently and demonstrate strong judgement, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
- Strong organisation and time management skills.
- Demonstrated ability to role model positive and respectful behaviour within the community.
- Basic to intermediate computer literacy, including Microsoft Office.
- Ability to communicate effectively in Tok Pisin.
Desirable:
- A qualification in counselling, education, health, social work or a related field.
- Experience working with TB, HIV or non-communicable disease programs.
- Experience facilitating health education, peer support or community engagement activities.
- Experience mentoring or supervising peer counsellors or community-based staff.
- Additional training in counselling, psychosocial support or health promotion
Other Requirements
- Compliance with Burnet Institute’s occupational health, safety and safeguarding standards.
- Police Check and Working with Children Check (as applicable).
How to Apply
Please submit your
cover letter and current CV outlining how your skills and experience align with the position to:
[email protected]
