In order to attain the minimum qualification in the ACT, ACT Health and community organisations funded by ACT Health 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

In Semester 1, 2012 the following training and assessment is being provided through the ACT ATOD MQS:

• 4 Core Competencies from the Certificate IV and AOD Work with the Canberra Institute of Technology;

• Recognition of Prior Learning; and

• First Aid.

Please also note that a pilot of expanded training opportunities is being undertaken with a small group of interested ATOD workers in Semester 1, 2012.

For further information download the ACT ATOD MQS Semester 1, 2012 Information Package.

The ACT ATOD MQS has evolved from an agreement between ACT Health and community organisations funded by ACT Health 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 in March 2011.  The National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction at Flinders University provided support to develop this policy.

Download the 2011/12 ACT ATOD MQS Policy.

The Committee provides guidance and support to ATODA to conduct the ACT ATOD Minimum Qualification Strategy Project. Membership of the Committee is open to any interested members of the ACT ATOD sector that are funded through ACT Health. The Committee meets at least 3 times per year, and holds additional meeting on a needs basis. Download the Committee Term’s of Reference for further information.

Under the ACT ATOD Minimum Qualification Strategy it is a requirement that all ATOD workers possess a Senior / Level 2 First Aid Qualification. Funding is available for workers who have engaged with the ACT ATOD MQS to undertake this training with St Johns.