ACT ATOD Minimum Qualification Strategy Project

The ACT is currently in the process of implementing the ACT ATOD Minimum Qualification Strategy (ACT ATOD MQS) for the ATOD sector, which aims to ensure the development and maintenance of a competent and professional workforce. It also aims to ensure that all workers have a shared minimum knowledge and skill base.

Under the ACT ATOD MQS it is necessary for all relevant staff of ATOD services operated by ACT Government Health Directorate or ATOD organisations funded by ACT Government Health Directorate, to either possess the minimum qualification or have an agreed plan and timeline with their agency to meet the minimum qualification within 3 years.

+About the ACT ATOD MQS

In order to attain the minimum qualification in the ACT, ACT Government Health Directorate and community organisations funded by ACT Government Health Directorate to provide ATOD services will require staff to successfully complete:

1.   A current First Aid qualification to a Senior / Level 2 standard.
AND
2.   A qualification in ATOD or addiction studies which is equivalent to, or above, the Australian Qualifications Framework Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (CHC40408).
OR
3.   A heath, social, or behavioural science related tertiary qualification plus “4 Core Competencies”:

  • CHCAOD402A: Work effectively in the AOD sector
  • CHCAOD406D: Work with clients who are intoxicated
  • CHCAOD408A: Assess needs of clients with AOD issues
  • CHCAOD411A: Provide interventions for clients with AOD issues

The ACT ATOD MQS has evolved from an agreement between the ACT Government Health Directorate and community organisations funded by the Directorate to provide ATOD services, to introduce a minimum qualification for all workers in the ACT ATOD sector. It commenced in 2007 and is updated regularly in line with the national Community Services Training Package and other developments.

The ACT ATOD MQS policy was developed through input of members of the ACT ATOD Executive Directors and Workers Groups; the ACT ATOD Minimum Qualification Strategy Development and Implementation Committee; and participants of the ACT ATOD Sector Consultation Workshop in2011. The National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction at Flinders University provided support to develop this policy.

Download the ACT ATOD MQS Policy.

+Semester 1, 2013 Information Package

Download the Semester 1, 2013 MQS Information Package and Application Forms.

An alternative model of the MQS is being piloted in Semester 1, 2013, which includes industry providers and different delivery modalities.  Upcoming dates for the face-to-face delivery for registered participants are:

  • 22 – 24 April 2013
  • 20 – 22 May 2013
  • 24 – 26 June 2013

+Trial of Postgraduate Level ATOD Units

A trial of postgraduate level ATOD units is currently underway as part of the MQS. The outcome of this trial will inform the future ACT ATOD MQS Policy. If you would like to express interest in participating in future training opportunities, or for more information email info@atoda.org.au.

For more information, contact:
Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT
Phone: (02) 6255 4070
Email: info@atoda.org.au

 

Last updated 18 February 2013