Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

The MJD Foundation is an Aboriginal community-controlled organisation partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families living with MJD and SCA7. Through our unique Our Way approach, we bring together cultural knowledge and evidence-based practice to deliver specialist, culturally responsive support that helps people stay stronger for longer and live fulfilling lives.

This role is available as casual, part time or full time, depending on availability of the right candidate. For more information you can contact Libby Massey, Director Research, Education and Clinical Services, [email protected] or 0417 279 120.

Click 'Apply for this job' and submit your CV (no more than 4 pages) and a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) addressing the selection criteria. Let us know why you are the right person for the job!

Reports to: Director Research, Education and Clinical Services

Direct reports: None

Location: Darwin

Award: HPSSA level 3, depending on background and experience. 

Special Provisions:

• Sound physical fitness and personal resilience.
• Willingness to travel to remote communities (by light aircraft or 4WD).
• Ability to obtain and maintain NDIS Worker Screening clearance.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Working with Children clearance.
• Willingness to adhere to Government mandated vaccination policies and provide proof of compliance.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an NT class C manual drivers’ license.

Summary of the position

The MJD Foundation is committed to a dedicated Therapy Program to support people living with MJD (Machado Joseph Disease) in the NT to access specialist multidisciplinary allied health care and provide advice and occasional support to people living with MJD and SCA7 in Far North Queensland through annual clinics. By providing flexible and culturally responsive care based on a strong foundation of enduring relationships, we aim to provide families living with MJD specialist care and support, working together to stay stronger for longer.

A central part of the vision of the program is working in partnership with MJDF clients and Aboriginal Community Worker staff to explore opportunities to learn from each other, integrating biomedical knowledge of rehabilitation with traditional therapies, knowledge and values to work towards clients’ goals.

As the occupational therapist, you will work as a member of the multidisciplinary team to design, deliver and evaluate strength based, evidence informed and holistic therapeutic programs and assessments and support NDIS plan development and delivery. You will support the delivery of education and research programs to family and professional care workers to help improve the quality of care that people living with MJD and SCA7 receive.    

In addition, the role will provide support to the senior management team across core activities of the MJD Foundation (Education, Advocacy, Research, Clinical and Community Services).

Key Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively and flexibly as a member of a multidisciplinary team, in partnership with clients, Aboriginal Community Workers (ACWs) and cultural advisors to develop and implement strengths based, evidence informed, culturally responsive best practice care (individual and/or group) to families living with MJD and other conditions.
• Build strong relationships with MJDF clients, their families and the broader MJDF team
• As required under the NDIS, produce rigorous clinical justifications for clients living with MJD to access the equipment and support they require to live a good life
• Document all relevant client interactions to satisfy NDIS and MJDF requirements.
• Facilitate meaningful, enjoyable activities to enhance quality of life and independent function.
• Facilitate MJDF approved research projects/activities as guided by the Director, Research and Education
• Provide regular feedback to senior staff to improve service delivery and health outcomes for people living with MJD and related disorders

Additional Opportunities

• Contribute to education, training, resource development and research activities according to your skill and knowledge level

Selection Criteria

• Tertiary qualifications in Occupational Therapy and current registration with AHPRA.
• Minimum of three years of experience working as a qualified therapist.
• Experience in prescription of assistive technology (ideally including wheelchairs).
• Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities and cultures from an historical and contemporary perspective.
• A commitment to person, family-centred and cross-cultural practice, working within the MJD Foundation ‘Our Way’ approach.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Highly developed ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Desirable criteria

• Understanding of the mechanisms and processes of Machado Joseph Disease and other spinocerebellar ataxias.
• Clinical experience in a neurological and/or rehabilitation setting
• Knowledge of and/or experience working with the NDIS.
• Working knowledge of NT Government and/or NGO services and facilities.
• Demonstrated experience with a range of computer software and good computer skills.

Why join MJDF

At MJDF, you will be part of an organisation that values both purpose and people.

We offer:

• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference for people living with MJD and SCA7 and their families
• A supportive and collaborative workplace culture
• Flexible work arrangements where operationally appropriate
• Salary packaging benefits $15,900 p.a., plus meal entertainment benefit up to $2,650 p.a.
• 6 weeks annual leave
• One paid wellbeing day per year plus gift
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth
• The chance to work alongside passionate colleagues committed to community-led outcomes
• A values-driven organisation that prioritises trust, teamwork, respect and family in every aspect of its work

MJD Foundation values diversity and lived experiences. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.