The Specialist AOD Worker will provide high-level assessment, care coordination and therapeutic support to clients with substance use concerns, including those also experiencing homelessness, trauma, mental health issues or other complex challenges.
Working across WHHHS locations—including Temporary Accommodation, crisis accommodation, transitional housing and outreach—the role will:
Deliver person-centred, strengths-based AOD support using evidence-based approaches.
Work closely with Support workers to develop integrated care plans and stepped-care pathways.
Provide brief interventions, psychosocial support, advocacy and referral to specialist AOD, mental health and health services.
Build staff capability through training, coaching and secondary consultation.
Strengthen referral pathways and collaborative partnerships with Health, AOD providers and community agencies.
Provide flexible service delivery including face-to-face, phone, and outreach-based support.
About WHHHS
WHHHS is a leading regional homelessness and housing support provider operating across the Illawarra–Shoalhaven. We deliver Temporary Accommodation, crisis and transitional housing, outreach, tenancy support, and integrated case management that helps people stabilise, rebuild and secure long-term housing.
We are a mission‑driven, trauma‑informed organisation committed to collaboration, flexibility, innovation and person‑centred practice.
What we're looking for
Relevant AOD, community services, social work, mental health or health qualification (or equivalent experience).
Demonstrated experience supporting people with complex AOD needs, including co‑occurring mental health, homelessness, justice involvement or trauma.
Strong care‑coordination, assessment and planning skills, including use of standardised tools.
Ability to deliver brief interventions and therapeutic support using evidence‑based methods.
Experience working with individuals in crisis or unstable housing.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
High‑level communication, de‑escalation and engagement skills.
Understanding of harm‑minimisation, trauma‑informed practice and culturally safe service delivery.
Current NSW Driver Licence.
Current WWCC
National Police Check (or willing to obtain)
Demonstrated knowledge of Harm reduction approaches
Experience facilitating groups, staff training or capacity building.
Networks within AOD, mental health, primary health and homelessness sectors.
Experience working with Aboriginal communities or culturally diverse populations.
What we offer
Opportunity to shape an innovative pilot program.
Supportive, collaborative team and leadership environment.
Ongoing training, supervision and professional development.
One‑week additional annual leave
The chance to make a meaningful difference every day.
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