Make a difference every day

Dementia Support Australia (DSA) delivers free, nationwide support for people living with dementia whose behaviours impact their care, as well as the families, carers and professionals who support them. Backed by clinical expertise, evidence-based practice and a person-centred approach, DSA helps improve quality of life and care outcomes for people affected by dementia.

When it comes to our people, those we support and those who work alongside us, we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and belonging. Through innovative programs, education, consultancy services and multidisciplinary clinical support, we empower individuals, care teams and organisations to respond to the complexities of dementia with confidence and compassion.

As a service led by HammondCare on behalf of the Australian Government, DSA is making a meaningful difference in communities across Australia every day. So, if you're passionate about improving the lives of people living with dementia, join us and build a career with purpose.

The role

Make a difference every day by supporting people living with dementia and those who care for them, as a trusted Dementia Consultant. This role sits within Dementia Support Australia (DSA), which is a national dementia support service, funded by the Australian Government, led by HammondCare.

As a professional dementia consultant, you will work in diverse care settings, through the Hospital to Aged Care Dementia Support Program (HACDSP) – a service delivered by Dementia Support Australia.

In this wholesome role, you will apply your expertise in assessment and biopsychosocial approaches to support people living with dementia. You will implement practical, innovative and non-pharmacological strategies to prevent, minimise or respond to changes in behaviour related to dementia to improve quality of life outcomes.

This role is offered as a Fixed Term Contract until June 2028. This role is based out of our Cairns office.

Responsibilities

• Support families, caregivers and clinical staff to better understand how dementia impacts each individual.
• Equip carers and clinicians to prevent and respond to behaviour changes through modelling, coaching, and development of resources, including personalised behaviour support planning.
• Be able to synthesise information, through observation and written documentation to provide recommendations that are relationship centred and informed by evidence- based best practice.
• Develop reports that are contextualised to individual situations and people, that effect change on the ground and improve quality of life for people living with dementia.
• Undertake a range of assessments that help to understand the holistic experience of the person and their care network.
• Work in partnership with the broader Dementia Support Australia team to build capability and confidence across the acute, home and aged care sectors.
• Contribute to research, projects and programs, and working innovatively to meet the changing needs of the sector
• Work on other projects and assignments as required and in line with areas of skill, expertise and knowledge.

Benefits

• Market leading remuneration
• Salary packaging; $15,900 annually for living expenses, plus up to $2,650 each year for entertainment benefits.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements in a friendly workplace with an emphasis on work life balance
• Additional training & career development opportunities
• Leave benefits – purchased additional annual leave
• Reward and Recognition Program
• Fitness Passports: Full facility access can include gyms, group classes and pools for yourself and your family.
• Free independent and confidential counselling sessions and free wellbeing resources and webinars available through our Employee Assistance Program in multiple languages.
• Exclusive discounts at MyCar; Servicing, Brakes, Repairs, and Tyre Care Plans. Along with commercial discounts for JB HI-FI and The Good Guys.

What we need from you

• Expertise in supporting people living with dementia
• Experience in Australian residential aged care and/ or community aged care
• Be relatable and able to share knowledge in a way that supports change at all levels
• Demonstrate a high level of negotiation, communication and relationship building skills
• Excellent problem solving and decision-making skills
• Ability Be able to prioritise multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent stakeholder management
• A current Australian drivers licence and willingness to travel
• Empathy and patience
• Relevant qualification in Allied Health, Nursing, Aged Care or Mental Health is essential
• Commitment to engage and align with HammondCare’s Christian Mission, Motivation and Mission in Action.

For more info on Dementia Support Australia (DSA), check out our website: www.dementia.com.au/work-with-us

Learn more about the HACDSP program www.dementia.com.au/hacdsp

Ready to make a change? Apply Now!

All short-listed applicants will be asked to consent to a criminal record check.

HammondCare is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity and inclusion. We strive on creating an equal employment environment where everyone from any background can be themselves.