Is this you?

• Seeking a permanent term role where you can make an impact from day one?
• Passionate about delivering short-term support to clients awaiting treatment?
• Want to work for a unique, purpose driven NFP where 91% of employees report being proud to work for?

At ACSO, we look for people who believe in second chances, who share our values and are passionate about supporting forensic clients to re integrate back into the community. If this sounds like you, read on!

About Us

The Australian Community Support Organisation (ACSO) is a vibrant, values driven NFP, focused on partnering with Government and the community to co-design services that create real social change. We are an organisation with a bold vision to create a safe and inclusive community where prison truly is the last resort. Our purpose is to strengthen the wellbeing of our communities by advocating for and delivering services which divert people away from the justice system.

The Australian Community Support Organisation recognises the right to a safe and inclusive service without bias. ACSO is committed to the equitable treatment of its participants, employees and partners. We believe in humanity and celebrating the diverse voices of our community through leadership, practice and policy design, to honour and embrace diverse traditions, cultures and experiences of those we support and work alongside.

About the role

Reporting to the Team Leader, Assessment and Coordination, the COATS (Community Offenders Advice and Treatment Service) and RAPIDS (Responsive Assessment, Planning, Intervention and Diversion Service) Bridging Worker will be part of a small to medium sized team that delivers a flexible, dynamic and best-practice service/s.

The position entails working in the COATS and RAPIDS program. Duties will include providing brief intervention and support to COATS and RAPIDS clients who are presenting as high risk and on a waiting list for treatment. The Bridging Worker will implement brief intervention by working to a harm minimisation and motivational interview framework. The aim of bridging is to provide a support to clients and manage their risks of harm to self or others whilst they remain on a waiting list for treatment. The position works closely with others in RAPIDS and Client Services Unit (CSU), Waiting List Coordinator and with assessors and leadership in the COATS program.

What we're looking for

• Minimum Certificate IV in AOD and/or an equivalent combination of training and experience in drug and alcohol services.
• 1+ years' prior experience in the AOD, mental health, community services or forensic sectors, working with complex clients
• Experience with supporting individuals who have experienced complex problems such as substance use, mental illness, intellectual disability, and homelessness
• Well-developed communication skills including ability to liaise with clients over the phone, and negotiate with a range of health and other professionals
• Experience working with clients with a forensic background and the ability to work in various settings
• Demonstrated skills in administering a forensic alcohol and drug assessment
• Demonstrated organisational, time management skills to deliver a quality service to clients, as well as demonstrated ability to handle complex situations.
• Sound understanding of client risk management and risk assessment practices.
• A working knowledge of the relevant and current legislation relating to the client group including the Mental Health Act and Privacy Act.
• Solid knowledge of recovery and harm minimisation approaches to the treatment and management of persons with substance abuse problems

What ACSO can offer you

• Full-time, permanent position available. Richmond location!
• $77,584 base salary + 10.5% superannuation + NFP salary packaging options (more after tax $ in your pocket!)
• WFH options - hybrid WFH home conditions exist currently, though this is a client facing role and there will be the future requirement to return to working from the office, as per the needs of the program
• Paid parental leave (14 weeks accessible after six months of employment)
• Annual leave loading of 17.5%
• Learning and development opportunities
• Phone, laptop, and provisions to help set you up at home (if required)
• Wellbeing initiatives such as free flu vaccines, wellbeing and professional development vouchers, Employee Assistance Program and Reward and Recognition Program. Our employees matter!
• Flexible working arrangements - work the hours that suit your lifestyle, including compressed hours and accrued days off (subject to operational requirements)
• Dedicated inclusion and diversity initiatives to support employees from all backgrounds and dispositions, including specialised leave for cultural ceremonies and gender affirmation.

How to Apply

If you think you'd be a great fit - we'd love to hear from you!

To apply and view the position description (PD), please visit our careers website (REQN 576) by clicking "Apply Now" and provide a copy of your resume, a brief covering letter and a document outlining responses to the selection criteria found in the PD.

Please note ACSO is committed to maintaining a working environment that is safe and minimises risk to the health and wellbeing of all employees, clients, contractors, volunteers and representatives. ACSO's employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. All ACSO preferred candidates are required to provide proof of their vaccination status, prior to offers of employment being made.

As ACSO is an NDIS provider, the successful candidate must hold an NDIS Worker Screening Check Clearance before they commence employment in this position.

To learn more about this position, please contact the COATS Team Leader, Anthony Grimm, on 0455671688.

ACSO proudly acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia's first peoples and pay respect to their rich culture, lores, customs and elders past and present. We strongly embrace the spirit of reconciliation and continue working towards ensuring an equal voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, particularly those who have been touched by the justice system.

The Australian Community Support Organisation embraces diversity within its workforce and encourages applications from appropriately qualified and skilled people regardless of their background. All suitable applicants for this role will be considered regardless of age, ability, race, gender expression, sex, cultural background, spiritual beliefs or lived experience.