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Job Title


Chaplain - Hunter Region


Company : Uniting NSW.ACT


Location : Newcastle, New south wales


Created : 2026-05-07


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Job description Posted Sunday, 3 May 2026, 9:00 am No Information Chaplain Hunter Region (NSW) Full-time (FTE) | A role of presence, leadership, and deep community impact There are roles and then there are callings. This is an opportunity to bring your pastoral presence, leadership, and compassion into some of the most beautiful and diverse communities across the Hunter regionwalking alongside people at some of the most important moments of their lives. From the rolling vineyards and open countryside of the Hunter Valley, to coastal calm at Salamander Bay and vibrant communities across Newcastle, this role offers a rare blend of purpose, leadership, and connection to place. About the Role Reporting to the Chaplaincy Convenor North, you will provide pastoral and spiritual care while leading a team of pastoral practitioners and volunteers across the Hunter 2 region. Youll support services including: Uniting Elizabeth Gates & Alroy House, Singleton (84 residents) Uniting Salamander Bay (60 beds) Uniting Lindsay Gardens, Hamilton Uniting Irwin Hall, Mayfield (90 beds) Supporting approximately 234 aged care residents, alongside: Civil Chaplaincy Hunter Mental Health Services 5 sites (84 beds) A 6th site opening in Spring 2026 What Youll Be Doing Provide pastoral and spiritual care to residents, families, and staff Lead and coordinate the Hunter 2 Pastoral Care Team (staff and volunteers) Travel across the Hunter region to support multiple communities Lead or support worship and spiritual reflection Work collaboratively across aged care and mental health settings Maintain timely, accurate documentation and reporting Contribute to a culture of teamwork, accountability, and care About You You are a grounded and thoughtful leader who can hold both pastoral care and organisational responsibility. You will bring: A Diploma or Degree in Theology, Ministry, or related discipline Ordination within the Uniting Church (Deacon or Minister of the Word), or another denomination, with willingness to enter the Uniting Church admission process, or eligibility as a suitably qualified lay person (Ministry of Pastor pathway) At least 2 units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or equivalent Minimum 2+ years experience in ministry, chaplaincy, or related community work Demonstrated leadership experience, ideally within aged care or community settings Strong understanding of spiritual and pastoral care, particularly for older people and/or mental health contexts The ability to work across diverse communities, including LGBTI+, cultural, theological, ecumenical, and interfaith settings Confidence working within organisational systems while maintaining a clear theological and gospel-informed perspective Strong communication, administration, and computer skills Youll also: Understand and engage with the Uniting Churchs structure, mission, and theological foundations Demonstrate empathy and a genuine connection with people, especially those who are vulnerable Build effective relationships across a wide range of stakeholders Compliance & Requirements Current Working with Children Check and relevant clearances Successful Criminal History Check In good standing with your faith tradition Australian working rights (citizenship or appropriate visa) Your Place in the Community Youll be: An active member of the Uniting Churchs Hunter Presbytery A key spiritual and pastoral presence across multiple services Leading others while remaining deeply connected to the people in your care Even Better Existing relationships with local congregations or community groups Experience in liturgy and adapting worship to meet diverse needs What We Offer Ongoing training and development opportunities Strong day-to-day support across HR, IT, Finance, and operational teams A role that balances autonomy with support The opportunity to lead meaningful work across aged care and mental health Not-for-profit salary packaging benefits and access to Fitness Passport Why This Role Matters This is work that is deeply human. Its about presence in moments that matter. Its about leadership that uplifts others. Its about bringing meaning, dignity, and connection into peoples lives. And doing it all in a region that offers space, beauty, and a strong sense of community. If you feel called to this workto lead, to care, and to serve across the Hunterwe would love to hear from you. For information regarding this position, please get in touch with Jennifer Johnston, Chaplaincy and Pastoral Practice Lead, via email at For recruitment process enquiries, please get in touch with Louise Massie at No Information Job details Job family Chaplaincy & Pastoral Practice Job function Team Member Pay type Hourly