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Posted 16 July, 2026

Court Liaison Registered Nurse

South Canterbury District Health Board
Timaru, CAN, NZ Full Time
Reference: b3c9d3af8406727b

Job Description

Mental Health Services - Timaru Hospital Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders. We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations – from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities. Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care. About the Service The Timaru Adult Community Mental Health Team provides 24-hour crisis response, intake and assessment, and ongoing case management for people with moderate to severe mental illness. As a rural service, we work collaboratively across teams and services to deliver safe, practical, and responsive care. About the Role The Court Liaison Nurse provides specialist mental health assessment and advice within the court setting. This role supports the court to understand the mental health needs of individuals and facilitates access to appropriate services. This is a unique opportunity to work across both court liaison and forensic case management. The role offers variety, autonomy, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful outcomes for people at a critical point in their interaction with the justice system. Key responsibilities include Conducting mental health assessments in the court setting Identifying emerging or untreated mental illness Providing clear, evidence-informed recommendations to the court Liaising with court staff, police, legal representatives, and health services Facilitating access to appropriate mental health and addiction services Additionally, the role includes management of a small forensic caseload, ongoing assessment, risk management and follow up of clients. The role has close collaboration with the Community Mental Health Team and Forensic Services. About you We are seeking an experienced mental health nurse with a minimum of 5 years' experience in specialist mental health services and someone with demonstrated skills in assessment, risk formulation, and clinical decision-making. Additionally, someone who can work independently, with strong communication skills and the ability to engage across a range of settings. You must also demonstrate an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice. You’ll need a New Zealand Registered Nurse Practicing Certificate and the right to work in New Zealand. Applications are welcomed from experienced clinicians seeking a role that utilises advanced clinical skills in a unique and impactful setting. Working for Health New Zealand Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. This role is covered by the terms and conditions of the Nursing Collective, and the Pay Scale, determined on relevant experience. How to Apply All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal. Close Date Open and will close when a suitable applicant is found. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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