This is a special measures role and only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are eligible to apply, under the special measures provision, section 12(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic).

Make a real difference to the local community

Full-Time, Fixed Term 12 Months

Access to Salary Packaging

Generous Annual Leave

The Role

The key purpose of this role is to provide culturally appropriate health care that contributes to improvement in Social and Emotional Wellbeing, and substance abuse outcomes of Aboriginal community members, through the provision of:

- Intensive case management and direct support to Aboriginal people and families with complex needs

- Raising awareness within the Aboriginal community on how to take positive action to deal with alcohol and other drugs issues.

- Encouraging access to culturally appropriate alcohol and other drug support services. - Collaboration with the Health Service team, other Wathaurong programs and external agencies to develop effective strategies for appropriate referral and case management of clients.

This position also undertakes a number of program development activities based on a harm minimisation approach, including health promotion, information provision, education activities, development and maintenance of community linkages, referrals, counselling interventions, the provision of advice to generalist services, liaising with relevant programs and fulfilling an advocacy role on behalf of the service user.

About you

Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Qualifications or relevant experience in the alcohol and other drug discipline

Sound knowledge of issues affecting Aboriginal people, particularly within the Wathaurong community

Demonstrated understanding of social, physical, economical, and cultural strengths and challenges affecting Aboriginal communities and their ability to access adequate and quality services.

Suitable communication, advocacy and negotiation skills and a demonstrated ability to deal effectively with challenging behaviours.

Demonstrated ability to work effectively and cooperatively as part of a team.

Knowledge of and ability to effectively liaise with other health services including substance abuse services.

The ability to set and maintain clear professional boundaries.

Knowledge of safe and appropriate culturally centred practices for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander focused services, including employment of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

Understanding of the purpose and expectations of the Victorian Child Safe Standards and demonstrated commitment to contributing to a child safe organisation in both practice and culture.

Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.

Current Victorian driver’s license

Computer skills

Desirable

Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

About Us

Please visit our website for further information: www.wathaurong.org.au

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via SEEK by clicking the ‘Quick apply’ button.

A copy of the Position Description is available at https://wathaurong.org.au/careers/alcohol-and-other-drugs-worker-3/

Applications close on 15/10/2025