Who Are We
MDAS’ reason for being is described by our Elders 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 the lives of clients, families, and Community. This commitment is underpinned by our LORE, which guides who we are, what we do, and why we do it.
Our organisation’s services, people and culture are strengthened through strong leadership and meaningful engagement with Community and MDAS teams.
Our Purpose
MDAS' Purpose Is To
Heal, support, serve and protect our communities throughout the Mallee Region.Promote healthy, resilient and capable Aboriginal people and families who can be their best selves and exercise true self‑ for, strengthen, empower, motivate and guide our Mob.
Position Summary
The AOD Worker is part of the broader Social and Emotional Wellbeing team and plays a key role in promoting the wellbeing and recovery of clients.
This is a permanent part time opportunity
The role provides culturally safe case management to Aboriginal people affected by alcohol and/or other drug use. Working within a harm‑minimisation and trauma-informed framework, the AOD Worker will conduct assessments, support clients to implement and review Individual Treatment Plans, provide psycho‑social support, and facilitate referrals to relevant AOD and specialist services.
Key Responsibilities2. Service Delivery3. Stakeholder Management4. Corporate ResponsibilitiesKey Selection Criteria
Case ManagementUtilise appropriate screening and assessment tools to identify AOD use and co‑occurring needs.Facilitate referrals to specialist services such as withdrawal, rehabilitation and mental health services.Demonstrate strong understanding of harm minimisation strategies, their application, and associated risk assessment processes.Provide holistic, coordinated care through liaison, advocacy, collaboration and networking.Co‑develop and monitor client goals, providing feedback on progress.Deliver services within a trauma-informed case management framework.Build capability to implement AOD-endorsed psychotherapeutic interventions.Attend Koori Court as required, providing reports and referral support to community members.Input accurate, timely and relevant data into MDAS-approved systems, contributing to KPI achievement.Support the facilitation of group interventions and SEWB-related community events.Engage effectively with MDAS community members using strong community engagement and maintain collaborative partnerships aligned with the MDAS Strategic Plan.Liaise with internal management and key teams to promote best practice and improved clinical outcomes.Support and respect historical and contemporary Aboriginal cultures, recognising the unique connection Aboriginal people have with the compliance with relevant legislation, MDAS policies and procedures.Participate in and support internal and external audit processes.
Direct Service Delivery
Demonstrated case management experience delivering evidence‑based AOD treatment and support.Strong understanding and application of harm minimisation strategies and trauma‑informed practice.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Ability to liaise with staff and external agencies regarding client care, referrals and follow-up.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Experience preparing reports, statistical data and organisational relationship management, consultation and negotiation skills.
Problem Solving & Planning
Ability to plan, monitor and evaluate own work and team performance.Demonstrated experience building internal and external partnerships.
Respect for Cultural Diversity
Experience delivering SEWB, mental health and/or AOD services in a culturally safe manner.Demonstrated commitment to providing culturally inclusive services to Aboriginal people.
Qualifications
Minimum qualification: Diploma in Community Services, AOD, or Mental Health.Completion of the four AOD core competencies or willingness to complete within 12 months (Alcohol and Other Drug Workforce Minimum Qualification Strategy).A relevant undergraduate degree with a specialist Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in AOD Studies is acceptable and exceeds minimum requirements.
Other Screening Requirements
Current Victorian Driver’s LicenceCurrent Working with Children CheckCurrent National Police Check
MDAS is a child-safe organisation and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children at all times. Employment is subject to satisfactory National Police Check and Working with Children Check prior to commencement.
Aboriginal and Torress Strait Islander People/s are strongly encouraged to apply.