WHO WE ARE
Mallee District Aboriginal Services (MDAS) exists to serve our community. Our Elders describe our purpose as:
* Employed by our Community, to work for our Community
—engaging, educating, and empowering individuals, families, and our Community in their journey to self-determination.
* MDAS is committed to becoming a leading Aboriginal organisation known for making a practical difference to clients' lives, families, and our Community.
* This commitment is underpinned by our
LORE
, the foundation of who we are, what we do, and why we do it.
* Our services, people, and culture are guided by strong leadership and engagement with community and MDAS teams.
OUR PURPOSE
* Healing, supporting, serving, and protecting our communities throughout the Mallee Region.
* Building healthy, resilient, and capable Aboriginal people and families who can be their best selves and exercise true self-determination.
* Caring for, strengthening, empowering, motivating, and guiding our Mob.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Worker provides support to individuals experiencing alcohol and other drug use issues. This includes:
* Assessing clients, managing risk, educating, and delivering appropriate treatment.
* Providing case management for people with complex needs using a harm minimisation framework.
* Collaborating with the broader Social and Emotional Wellbeing team to promote recovery and wellbeing.
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)
Case Management
* Utilise screening and assessment tools for AOD and co-occurring needs.
* Facilitate referrals to specialised services (e.g., withdrawal, rehabilitation, mental health).
* Apply harm minimisation strategies and conduct risk assessments.
* Deliver holistic, coordinated care through advocacy, collaboration, and networking.
* Co-develop client goals, monitor progress, and provide feedback.
* Work within a trauma-informed case management framework.
Service Delivery
* Attend Koori Court as directed and maintain case records.
* Work autonomously and under direction, demonstrating problem-solving skills.
* Provide services at Wiimpatja Healing Centre as required.
* Deliver services consistent with professional standards and MDAS Code of Conduct.
Relationship Management
* Foster relationships with agencies to benefit clients and MDAS.
* Attend meetings, forums, and education programs to integrate best practices.
* Collaborate internally for streamlined intake, assessment, and referral processes.
Corporate Responsibilities
* Respect Aboriginal culture and its historical and contemporary significance.
* Comply with Quality Risk, OH&S laws, and MDAS policies.
* Monitor and improve quality and safety of care.
* Support internal and external audit processes.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA
Counselling and Case Management
* Qualifications and experience to deliver evidence-based treatment and support.
* Knowledge of harm minimisation and trauma-informed practice.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
* Ability to liaise with staff and external agencies for patient care and referrals.
* Skilled in negotiation, consultation, and advocacy.
Problem Solving, Organisation and Planning
* Ability to plan, monitor, and evaluate performance.
* Effective liaison for coordinated care.
Respect Cultural Diversity
* Provide inclusive services for Aboriginal people and engage in cultural learning.
Qualifications
* Minimum Diploma in Community Services, AOD, or Mental Health.
* Completion of four core AOD competencies or willingness to complete within 12 months.
* Higher qualifications (Graduate Certificate/Diploma in AOD Studies) are highly regarded.
Other Requirements
* Current Driver's License.
* Employee Working with Children Check.
* National Police Check.
* COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate or valid medical exemption.
MDAS KEY CAPABILITIES
* Managing Difficult Conversations:
Address sensitive issues respectfully and constructively.
* Resilience:
Maintain positivity and adaptability under pressure.
* Continuous Improvement:
Identify and implement process efficiencies.
* Develop Capability:
Enhance knowledge and skills for better community outcomes.
* Workplace Culture & Ethical Leadership:
Respect Aboriginal culture, foster inclusivity, and promote positive organisational culture.
MDAS is a child-safe organisation committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children. Employment is subject to satisfactory police and Working with Children checks, and compliance with COVID-19 vaccination requirements.