About BDAC

BDAC is an ACCO (Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation) registered as a member under the umbrella of VACCHO (Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation) and represented nationally through NACCHO (National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation).

BDAC was founded to represent and provide services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living on Djaara Country.

BDAC has a responsibility to ensure growth of services, development of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, better and improved health outcomes for our people, improved quality of life and be a lead agency in providing self-determination employment and career pathways for Aboriginal people.

What We Are Offering

• Access to Salary Packaging
• 11% Superannuation
• Supportive work environment
• Ongoing training and development opportunities

About the Position

The "Public Intoxication Response (PIR) service" plays a crucial role in addressing the health and wellbeing needs of individuals who are intoxicated in the Greater Bendigo/Castlemaine areas, aligning with the recent decriminalisation of public intoxication by the Victorian Government.

The core function of the PIR team is to provide an outreach-based response to individuals in need. This response includes conducting thorough health assessments, offering safe transportation to an appropriate location, monitoring the health and overall well-being of the individuals, and delivering follow-up care as needed.

In essence, the PIR service operates as a critical lifeline for those who are intoxicated, ensuring their safety and well-being while also contributing to a more compassionate and health-focused approach in the context of public intoxication.

Keys Responsibilities

The Public Intoxication Response (PIR) Community Wellbeing Responder will have the following responsibilities:

• On-Call Outreach: The Community Wellbeing Responder is tasked with being part of an on-call roster, responding promptly to referrals from Centralised Intake. This role involves immediate availability ensuring a timely and effective response to incoming referrals.
• Assertive Outreach: Collaborating closely with the team, the Community Wellbeing Responder proactively engages with Community to identify and support individuals in need. This involves actively aiding those who may require support, emphasising a hands-on and empathetic approach to Community outreach.
• Follow-up Case Management: Upon obtaining client consent, the Community Wellbeing Responder conducts comprehensive followup case management. This involves working closely with clients post-referral, aiming to enhance their overall health and wellbeing through tailored interventions and ongoing support.
• Liaison With Other Internal BDAC Programs: The role requires collaboration with various departments within BDAC to facilitate efficient referral pathways. By integrating with the broader Health & Wellbeing Team, the Community Wellbeing Responder ensures a cohesive and holistic approach to supporting Community's needs.
• Client Advocacy: The role includes advocating for the rights and overall wellbeing of clients. This involves ensuring that clients receive the appropriate care and support, actively advocating their interests within the broader health system.
• Build Relationships with Stakeholders: The position involves proactive liaison with key stakeholders and active participation in professional networking. Establishing and nurturing relationships with external partners, community organisations, and relevant agencies.
• Guidelines and Procedures: Operating under the guidance of the Team Leader and Program Manager, the Community Wellbeing Responder adheres to all reporting requirements, guidelines, and standards. This ensures that the outreach efforts align with established protocols, promoting consistency, and quality in service delivery.

About You

• Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal Culture and the ACCHO environment.
• Previous experience in an AOD/mental health-related role.
• Previous experience in case management.
• Experience in implementing harm minimisation strategies.
• Understanding trauma-informed care principles, demonstrating an understanding of the potential impact of trauma on mental health and substance use.
• Experience in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Understanding of confidentiality and privacy principles in work settings.

Preferred / Desired / Mandatory Education, Training and/or Competencies

• Qualification in a Health related field preferred.
• Experience with mental health and AOD services

Mandatory Requirements

Should an applicant be the preferred candidate, background checks (Police check, reference check and Working with Children's Check) will be completed prior to the candidate’s employment being confirmed.

For more information about this position please see the Position Description available at bdac.com.au or contact our human resources team on (03) 5442 4947 or send an email through to [email protected] using the subject line: Community Wellbeing Responders - Bendigo enquiry via EthicalJobs.