AOD Assessment Practitioner

ABOUT US

The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities.  We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better.  It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

Why this role matters

The Salvation Army (Salvos) is one of Australia’s largest providers of alcohol and other drug (AOD) programs including withdrawal management, residential and non-residential rehabilitation, and harm reduction programs. Salvos services go beyond addressing the core issues and challenges associated with problematic substance abuse and provide participants a place of hope, compassion, and dignity to recover safely.

About the role

As an AOD Assessment Practitioner, you'll play a vital role in helping individuals navigate alcohol and other drug support services, ensuring they have access to the treatment and recovery pathways best suited to their needs. In this rewarding role, you'll provide assessment, brief interventions, and holistic case management that empowers individuals, families, and significant others to improve their health, wellbeing, and long-term recovery outcomes.

Reporting to the AOD Senior Practitioner, this is a permanent part-time position 22.8 hours per week, based on-site in Sunshine, VIC.

Conditions

Compensation is in accordance with SCHADS Award Level 5.

$53.43 – $55.85 hourly + superannuation based on experience level and qualifications, exclusive of penalties, allowances, NFP salary packaging.

How you will make an impact

• Guide clients into treatment and recovery services, completing intake, assessment, and risk screening to identify the most appropriate care pathway
• Deliver timely support and intervention, providing brief therapeutic support, crisis responses, and proactive engagement for clients awaiting treatment
• Coordinate personalised recovery plans, working alongside clients to set goals, address barriers, and achieve meaningful outcomes
• Facilitate access to essential support services, connecting clients with housing, mental health, family support, financial counselling, and other specialist providers
• Work collaboratively with families, carers, and partner agencies, ensuring a holistic and integrated approach to recovery and wellbeing
• Promote sustainable recovery outcomes, helping clients establish community connections, peer supports, aftercare plans, and long-term wellbeing strategies

What you will bring

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work or related discipline
• Minimum qualification in Diploma of Community Services
• Relevant experience in a social service environment
• AOD Skillset or obtain within the first 12 months of commencing employment
• Completion of Forensic Fundamentals or ability to obtain within first 6 months of employment
• Family Violence foundation, information sharing scheme and intermediate risk assessment training within the first 12 months. Refreshers as required or directed

What we offer

The Salvos offer eligible employee’s a well-balanced package of meaningful benefits including:

• Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefit

• Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities

• Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports such as: Burra Burra Network (pastoral care network), Cultural Events, Sorry Business and Ceremonial Leave (up to 10 days) 

• Ongoing training and development opportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency

• Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts

How to apply 

If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to join a team dedicated to creating positive change, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your alignment with the requirements of the role. Together we can build a brighter future. 

Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured.  

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value and include people of all cultures, languages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and intersex status. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration.