About Us

Court Services Victoria provides corporate services and facilities to support the performance of the judicial, quasi-judicial and administrative functions of Victoria's courts and tribunal, Judicial College and Judicial Commission. 

Collectively, Victoria's Supreme, County, Magistrates', Children's, and Coroners courts, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), the Judicial College of Victoria, the Judicial Commission of Victoria, and Court Services Victoria (CSV) are referred to as the ‘Courts Group'. 

Our people enable the Courts Group to deliver on each jurisdiction's own strategic priorities while also pursuing strategic opportunities that are interconnected and deliver benefits more broadly.

The Coroners Court plays a vital role in improving the health and safety of the Victorian community by independently investigating deaths and fires and identifying death prevention opportunities. Coroners Court employees make a significant impact on the community through their dedication to care, respect for families experiencing loss, and commitment to the administration of justice and safety.

The Coroners Court of Victoria (CCOV) is responsible for:

• Independently investigating deaths and fires.
• Reducing preventable deaths.
• Promoting public health and safety and the administration of justice.

Why join CCOV

Working at CCOV offers:

• the opportunity to be part of team that contributes to work of real significance to the Victorian community
• a meaningful role in a unique judicial environment
• flexible and innovative work practices that support balance between work and family life
• a workplace committed to diversity, inclusion, safety and respect
• attractive salary and access to training and development opportunities

About the Role

The Psychiatric Medical Specialist is part of the Mental Health and Disability Investigations Team (MHDT), who advise Coroners in their investigations into reportable deaths that occur proximate to the provision of mental healthcare.

The MHDT includes mental health nursing and allied health staff. The team reviews clinical evidence to identify contributing factors in mental health-related deaths. They also review scientific research and clinical guidelines and engage with relevant experts to identify remediable factors that may assist in prevention and risk management in healthcare settings.

The Psychiatric Medical Specialist has responsibility to:

• Review medical, legal and health policy documents to identify the need for and nature of further investigation required regarding mental health related deaths.
• Apply investigative and research skills to examine the adequacy of the provision of mental health care proximate to death.
• Conduct critical analyses of medical and scientific data, clinical guidelines and grey literature to inform medical evidence and advice for the Coroner.
• Provide verbal and written advice and evidence to Coroners and CPU staff identifying individual or systemic factors that may have contributed to the death and areas where enhancements to public health and safety can be made to prevent future similar deaths.

About You

We are looking for a dynamic and values-driven team player with excellent communication skills and a commitment to public health and safety with:

• Broad experience of the mental healthcare system, including a strong understanding of clinical practice and clinical governance in Australia and how it is regulated.
• Demonstrated knowledge of how systems of care impact on patient safety.
• Significant experience in psychiatric clinical practice.
  Experience in mortality reviews, clinical case reviews, quality control and root cause analysis methodologies.

How to Apply

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now' button, ensuring you include the following documents in your application:

• Resume.
• A cover letter (not exceeding two pages) demonstrating attributes and experience relevant to the role (see the Key Selection criteria in the Position Description).

For further information on the role, please see the attached Position Description.

Other Information

CSV is the employer of staff at Courts Group. CSV has a firm commitment through its Koori Employment Plan to increase participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across our workforce.

We value the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community and encourage and celebrate diversity. Those from the LGBTQIA+ community, women, people of all ages, with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse people, and those who are neurodiverse, are encouraged to apply.

We aim to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process or require an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to email the contact person listed in the advertisement.

The coronial jurisdiction is a sensitive and demanding environment. Employees may be exposed to challenging material and interactions with families and loved ones experiencing distress. CCOV is committed to psychological safety and provides programs, services and support to help employees manage these demands.

As part of our commitment to a safe and respectful workplace, CSV conduct pre-employment checks, including reference checks, police checks and misconduct screening. These checks are handled confidentially, with care and are a standard part of our hiring process to ensure the right fit for both candidates and Court Services Victoria.