AOD Assessment Practitioner

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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

The Salvation Army Australia is seeking a compassionate and skilled AOD Assessment Practitioner to support individuals experiencing alcohol and other drug-related challenges. In this frontline role, you’ll be a vital link between those seeking support and the services that can change their lives.

This client-facing role provides a structured entry point into AOD services, delivering evidence-based assessments, short-term support, and crisis response. You'll collaborate with health, housing, and community services while using family-inclusive practices to support long-term recovery. You’ll play a key role in improving health outcomes while supporting clients to build stronger, safer, more independent lives.

Reporting to the Non Residential Team Leader, this is a full‑time, 12‑month maximum‑term role based in Bendigo, VIC

Compensation is in accordance with SCHADS Award Level 5.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete comprehensive AOD assessments and develop individual treatment plans
• Provide brief interventions and maintain engagement with clients awaiting treatment
• Manage interim care, risk assessments, and safety planning for high-risk clients
• Liaise with internal and external providers to ensure integrated, wraparound support
• Facilitate assertive referrals to specialist services including mental health, housing, and family support
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date client records and contribute to regular case review meetings
• Support the delivery of the Therapeutic Day Rehab programme where required

What You Will Bring

• Tertiary qualification in Social Work or related field (minimum Diploma in Community Services)
• AOD Skill Set (or willingness to obtain within 12 months)
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, family violence response, and intersectional needs
• Demonstrated experience in AOD or social services
• Ability to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and respond flexibly to client needs
• A calm, non-judgemental presence with strong organisational and record-keeping skills
• An Employee Working With Children Check
• Current Victorian Driver’s Licence

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

Ready to help someone take the first step towards recovery?

Apply today to join a passionate team dedicated to empowering individuals and families through evidence-based, person-centred AOD support.

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