18 February 2026
The Australian Counselling Association (ACA) is proud to share ACA Level 2 (Masters*), Level 3 and Level 4 counsellors are now eligible for roles within the new Medicare Mental Health Check In (MMHCI) initiative.
The roles currently advertised are seeking core members of a newly established, national virtual mental health workforce delivering structured Low-Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (LiCBT) to Australians seeking early mental health support. Permanent, full-time roles are available.
*ACA Level 2 (Masters) counsellors can apply for these roles, if they meet the prerequisite of two years experience.
The MMHCI extends employment opportunities to counsellors and psychotherapists to deliver a new service from March which is part of the government’s commitment of $588 million. It does not provide eligibility for ACA counsellors to offer Medicare-rebated services in private practice, though this remains an active conversation in our advocacy.
ACA CEO Jodie McKenzie participated in national co-design workshops in 2024 (when the program was known as the National Early Intervention Service), ensuring counsellors had a voice in shaping this important reform. This outcome reflects the strength of ACA’s ongoing advocacy and our commitment to recognition of the counselling profession as essential contributors to Australia’s mental health workforce.
This announcement demonstrates the importance of having ACA at the decision-making tables and aligns with our advocacy strategy. It means:
- Formal recognition of our profession
- Acknowledgement of the critical role counsellors play in early intervention and mental health care
- Continued growth and strengthening of our sector
- Counsellors are given the opportunity to work in new roles within the government
What is Medicare Mental Health Check In?
Medicare Mental Health Check In (MMHCI) is a new digital mental health service designed to support the mental wellbeing of Australians. It provides free access (with no referral required) to practical, evidence-based advice and actions.
From the end of March 2026, the service will offer guided programs using a safe, evidence-based approach to support people managing mild mental health challenges.
MMHCI is available to Australians aged 16 years and over, and includes additional accessibility support, such as interpreting services and assistive tools.
The Australian Government has committed $588 million to this initiative, reinforcing the significance of this reform. St Vincent’s has been appointed to deliver the service nationally.
Please note, ACA registered counsellors are not eligible to provide Medicare-rebated services to clients.
The MMHCI roles relate specifically to employment within this government-funded service delivered by St Vincent’s. They do not change Medicare rebate eligibility settings for private practice.
How to Get Involved
Roles are now open and close 11 March - view positions currently advertised and sign up for job alerts on St Vincent’s website.
ACA strongly encourages eligible Level 3 and 4 members to apply and be part of this initiative.
This is a meaningful step forward for our profession and a powerful example of what strategic, sustained advocacy can achieve.
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