Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Traineeship opportunities

We are excited to announce new opportunities for individuals passionate about a rewarding career in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) support. Due to recent funding from the Victorian State Government, we are expanding our team and offering two (2) AOD traineeships with the Department of Health AOD Trainee Program.

The roles are full time and will allow a Trainee to attend current study commitments during work hours or undertake further training in the AOD area while earning a full time wage. When not attending class, the Trainee will be immersed into our AOD team to build an understanding of contemporary AOD practice and to develop the skills required to work in this sector.

This role has been designed to launch a current student or recent graduate into a fulfilling career within the AOD sector. It will assist a Trainee to learn every part of the AOD landscape and work with a range of different clients at various stages of their treatment journey.

Join us in making a real difference in our community's wellbeing.

Traineeship Overview:

The AOD traineeship is a 12-month program providing a comprehensive learning experience. As a trainee, you will actively participate in various AOD related activities, including counselling sessions, community outreach, and educational programs. This hands-on approach will allow you to develop practical skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Our traineeship welcomes anyone with a passion for AOD work, offering a variety of pathways to suit your unique journey. The position will be based at our offices in Ballarat.

Traineeship Pathways:

• Trainees with No Prior Education Relevant to AOD Work:

Trainees will learn on-the-job while concurrently undertaking the Certificate IV in AOD.

Suitable for candidates considering a career in the AOD sector without prior relevant education.

Ideal for individuals seeking a career change.

Candidates already enrolled in Certificate IV in AOD are also welcome.

• Trainees with a Bachelor’s Degree or a Diploma in a Discipline Relevant to AOD Work:

Trainees will learn on-the-job and complete the AOD Skill Set.

Suitable for candidates with a degree or diploma in disciplines such as Counselling, Criminology, Social Work, Youth Work, or Diploma in Community Services.

Provides an opportunity to apply existing skills while acquiring new AOD-specific competencies.

• Trainees with a Diploma in AOD:

Trainees in this cohort will access additional AOD training through Elevate! while gaining practical experience in the workplace.

Suitable for those who have completed or are still enrolled in the Diploma in AOD.

The traineeship can be utilised to fulfil work placement requirements.

• Trainees with Certificate IV in AOD:

Trainees can opt to complete additional units for a dual Certificate IV in AOD and Mental Health.

Alternatively, trainees can enrol in the Diploma in AOD for further specialisation.

Provides flexibility for individuals with a Certificate IV in AOD to expand their qualifications.

About the role(s)

The role duties will vary depending upon which level of pathway you are interested in joining, in relation to your own levels of study and achievement.

Duties will include:

• Learning how to enhance the ability of individuals, family members and significant others to respond to drug and alcohol issues and build self-efficacy through the delivery of effective brief interventions and single session work.
• Supporting the team with telephone-based intake services and support, information, advice and referrals to individuals and families
• Assisting with the development of comprehensive assessments and individual treatment plans whilst working within a harm reduction framework
• Being supported to work collaboratively within a team environment, engaging with internal and external stakeholders.

About you

You will have:

• A strong desire to increase your knowledge and experience in the alcohol and drug field.
• Well-developed communication skills (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.
• Good computer, organisational and time management skills and the ability to be self-directed, accountable, and collaborative.

Experience working in the Community Health Sector would also be a definite advantage, however due to the nature of the AOD Trainee Program, the roles are not open to those who have already undertaken paid work in an AOD role.

About Ballarat Community Health

Ballarat Community Health (BCH) is a not-for-profit community health service based in Ballarat. We’ve been creating health communities through the provision of accessible, affordable, and quality health and wellbeing services for more than 40 years.

Ballarat Community Health aims to improve access to healthcare services and address the health needs of the community, particularly for those who may face barriers to accessing traditional healthcare settings. We work in collaboration with other healthcare providers, community organisations, and government agencies to deliver comprehensive and integrated care to individuals and families, and carers, in the region.

How to Apply

To obtain a copy of the position description, please click here, or view the attachment below.

Applications must be submitted by the advertised closing date.

For further enquiries about this role please contact Suzanne Powell, Manager Alcohol & Other Drug Services, on telephone 03 5338 4522.

Applications will be reviewed when received and suitable candidates will be contacted for interview at that time. You are encouraged to apply early to ensure you don’t miss this opportunity.

If we can assist you with any reasonable adjustments in order to submit your application for this role, or you need a copy of this advertisement in an accessible format, please contact the People and Culture team via email at [email protected] noting your preferred method of communication and contact details and a member of the team will be in touch.

Diversity and Inclusion

At Ballarat Community Health, we are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce where we value each person’s uniqueness. We embrace diverse life experiences and the perspectives of our people, whilst providing high-quality health care to all members of our community, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, cultural background, disability, or sexual orientation.

Be more than part of your community - be someone making a difference for people in your community. Apply now!