AOD Support Worker

Number of Positions Available

1

ABOUT US

The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

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.

The Bendigo Bridge Program provides residential rehabilitation for young adults aged 18-35 experiencing substance use challenges, supporting recovery through evidence-based treatment, case management, and personalised goal-focused care.

About the role

As a Support Worker within the Bendigo Bridge Program , you will provide supervision, practical support, and crisis intervention to participants in a residential rehabilitation setting for young adults experiencing substance use challenges. Working across weekdays, evenings, weekends, and public holidays, you will help maintain a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment that promotes wellbeing and recovery. Through positive engagement and responsive support, you will assist participants to navigate daily living, build confidence, and progress towards their individual goals.

Reporting to the Senior Support Worker, this is a permanent part-time position , 22.8 hours per week, based on-site in Bendigo, VIC.

Conditions

• Compensation is in accordance with the SCHADS Award Level 4.
• How you will make an impact

• Ensure the safety, wellbeing, and security of participants by providing supervision, responding to incidents, managing behaviours, and addressing risks in line with program policies and procedures
• Deliver after-hours support and practical interventions , including participant induction, crisis response, and escalation of concerns to relevant stakeholders when required
• Support participant engagement and recovery by facilitating group activities, organising social programs, and encouraging participation in a positive therapeutic environment
• Provide hands-on day-to-day support to residents , assisting with living skills development, responding to enquiries, and promoting a safe, clean, and respectful living environment
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration with colleagues through structured handovers and information sharing to support continuity of care and participant outcomes

What you will bring

• Completion of the CHCSS00093 Alcohol and Other Drugs Skill Set , with demonstrated capability in assessing client needs, delivering AOD interventions, and developing and reviewing individual treatment plans within a recovery-focused environment
• Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs, Community Services or Mental Health (highly desirable)
• Or a Diploma level qualification (or higher) in a relevant Human Services discipline (highly desirable)
• A current VIC Driver's Licence
• A current Employee Working with Children Check

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 l eave for p rimary (12 weeks) & secondary carers , P urchased L eave S cheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities
• Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports such as: Burra Burra Network (pastoral care network), Cultural Events, Sorry Business and Ceremonial Leave (up to 10 days)
• O ngoing training and development o pportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency
• Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts

How to apply

I f you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to join a team dedicated to creating positive change, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your alignment with the requirements of the role. Together we can build a brighter future.

Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured.

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. W e 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