James Dunlop is the new Senior Peer Coordinator at the Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit (SMHRU).
With a strong commitment to peer-led care and a lived experience approach, James is passionate about empowering both consumers and peer workers on their recovery journeys.
What led you to this role?
I've had the privilege of working in mental health for the past three years across various services and it’s sparked a deep passion for leadership, especially through a lived experience or peer lens. Supporting peer workers to deliver the best care to our consumers has become a huge motivator for me.
Working alongside consumers is something I’ll never take for granted – it's incredible to be part of their recovery journey. So, when the Senior Peer Coordinator role at the new SMHRU came up, I knew I had to go for it. The passion just reignited and I jumped at the chance!
Can you explain what lived experience means?
Lived experience and peer-led care involves walking alongside a person throughout their recovery journey. Through sharing experiences, we can offer compassion, care, hope and support.
What is your vision as Senior Peer Coordinator for Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit (SMHRU)?
My vision is to create a space where consumers can truly thrive, find purpose and live meaningful lives. I'm excited about the opportunity for our peer and clinical teams to work together, combining their expertise to support consumers. I want to build an environment where people feel safe, valued and inspired to keep moving forward on their recovery journey.
What challenges do you anticipate in this role and how do you plan to address them?
I expect we’ll face plenty of challenges – from operational hurdles to ensuring smooth service delivery and handling the unexpected. Our team has put in extensive planning and is ready to respond quickly to whatever comes our way. We’re not shying away from any challenge and are prepared to tackle them head-on.
What attracted you to SMHRU?
In my previous roles, I met many consumers who had spent time in SMHRU environments, so I was excited to see Gold Coast Health’s approach to this space. I’m genuinely impressed by the planning, detail and effort put into making this a supportive rehabilitation setting. This facility will be an incredible resource, giving consumers everything they need to work on their recovery.
What do you do to look after your own mental health?
At the end of each day, I make it a point to leave work at work and enjoy time with my partner. We regularly take camping, 4WD and beach trips to relax and unwind. Checking in and reflecting with my supervisors also helps keep me grounded. And when I’m relaxing, I’m all about sports – AFL, Supercars, MotoGP, F1 and NASCAR are my go-to's!
Interested in joining the SMHRU Team?
Gold Coast Health is recruiting for both clinical and non-clinical positions through SmartJobs.
For further information about recruitment opportunities, visit Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit | Gold Coast Health.
Want to know more?
Executive Director for Mental Health and Specialist Services Malcolm McCann and his team highlight the promising opportunities for recruits at the new SMHRU in this video.
