Victoria University
1 year full time
Prepare for a rewarding career supporting people with alcohol and other drug issues. This nationally recognised Certificate IV combines practical skills training with industry partnerships, equipping you to work as an entry-level practitioner in community services, withdrawal services, and rehabilitation settings.
Applicants must be aged 18 years or over at course commencement. You'll need to complete a Pre-training Review (PTR), undertake a literacy and numeracy assessment, attend an interview, and be able to obtain a Working with Children check (WWCC) and Police check for employment eligibility. While meeting minimum admission requirements doesn't guarantee entry, the university considers your education, work experience, current skills and personal attributes. If you lack required English or maths skills, preparation courses are available to help you transition into tertiary learning.
The course comprises 17 units: 12 core units and 5 elective units. Core units include: Work in an alcohol and other drugs context, Assess needs of clients with AOD issues, Provide interventions for people with AOD issues, Develop and review individual AOD treatment plans, Assess co-existing needs, Provide brief interventions, Use communication to build relationships, Work with diverse people, Work legally and ethically, Work with people with mental health issues, Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnerships, and Provide First Aid. Elective units cover topics such as working with intoxicated clients, AOD withdrawal services, co-existing mental health and AOD issues, domestic and family violence response, and counselling relationships.
Victoria University prioritises hands-on learning with direct industry links and has formed close partnerships with 10 key industries, including community services. Instructors bring valuable industry contacts and latest industry-standard skills and knowledge. The university is committed to inclusivity, diversity and opportunity with a strong history of community engagement. Students benefit from the Learning Hub offering study skills support, careers guidance, and accessibility services across five VU campuses.
Graduates can pursue rewarding careers as Case Workers, Community Support Workers, Drug and Alcohol Workers, Family Support Workers, Outreach Workers, or Support Workers. The specialised knowledge gained is transferable to related fields such as mental health and youth work. Victoria University's strong community partnerships create networks for future employment opportunities in the growing welfare support sector.
Course fee
Start date
You will be redirected to the training provider to enquire directly. Workinitiatives is not the course or training provider. We aggregate and list courses only.