Alcohol & Other Drugs (AOD) Worker

Employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at Ngwala is essential to maintaining culturally aligned services. We STRONGLY encourage Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people to apply for this role and others as they become available.

About Ngwala:

Ngwala Willumbong is a leading provider of culturally safe and effective support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to supporting individuals affected by alcohol and other drug misuse, providing them with pathways to recovery through holistic and culturally appropriate rehabilitation programs.

About the Role:

The key role of the AOD Worker is to provide culturally safe outreach case management support to Aboriginal people who are affected by alcohol and/or other drug use.

Within a culturally safe and harm minimisation framework the worker will undertake:

• AOD assessments using a template
• Assist client to complete, implement and review Individual Treatment Plans
• Provide psycho-social support to clients
• Refer and link clients to specialist AOD and other agencies
• Advocate on behalf of clients.

The worker will also undertake community development activities including:

• Health promotion, information provision, and health education activities
• Development and maintenance of community and service linkages & networks
• Cultural competency advice and support to specialist services

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide culturally safe outreach case management support to Aboriginal people, their families and communities.
• Undertake AOD assessments and complete Individual Treatment Plans using templates provided by Ngwala.
• Provide culturally safe psycho-social support and outreach support.
• Develop and maintain linkages with other Aboriginal and mainstream AOD and/or health providers

Skills & Experience:

• Experience working with AOD and/or dual diagnosis clients including a willingness to participate in relevant training.
• Demonstrated experience in the provision of screening, assessment and support to people and their families with AOD issues.
• An understanding of the intergenerational loss, grief and trauma that is experienced by Aboriginal community members and the subsequent AOD issues that result.
• Ability to work within a team, with excellent written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal abilities
• Ability to effectively liaise and communicate with a range of organizations and individuals in a collaborative and respectful manner.
• Strong organizational abilities, willing to take initiative and work independently

Mandatory Requirements:

• Current Victorian driver’s license
• National Police Certificate (not older than 3 months)
• Victorian Employment Working with Children Check

What We Offer:

• Full-Time role, Monday – Friday 9am-5pm
• Social and Community Services Level 3
• NFP Salary Packaging Benefits up to $15,900
• An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• A supportive and culturally inclusive work environment.
• Ongoing professional development and training.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey and promoting cultural safety, we would love to hear from you. Please provide the following:

• A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for this role
• A resume which outlines your educational and employment background

*Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit pre-employment checks including a Police Check (no older than 3 months), Victorian Employment Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check.