Online Alcohol and Other Drugs Courses
Build a purposeful pathway in Alcohol and Other Drugs
Alcohol and Other Drugs online courses help you develop practical skills in recovery-focused support, assessment, communication, cultural safety, and risk management. You’ll learn safe and ethical practices in community and health settings, preparing you with confidence to step into professional roles across AOD services.
Overview
Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course
Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs Online
Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs Online
Career Outcomes
What careers could you be open to after studying this course?
Alcohol and Drugs Worker
Average salary: AU$65,000 to AU$78,000 per year*
Supports people facing alcohol and other drug issues with guidance, daily support and links to recovery services.
Drug and Alcohol Coordinator
Average salary: AU$70,000 to AU$110,000 per year*
Supports the community through recovery by aligning clinical services with compassionate and best-practice care.
Case Worker
Average salary: Around AU$91,500 per year*
Manages client cases, coordinates interventions, documents assessments, and ensures compliance with legislative and ethical requirements.
Outreach Worker
Average salary: AU$65,000 to AU$82,000 per year*
Engages people in the community, offers harm reduction advice and connects them with ongoing alcohol and drug support.
Detoxification Worker
Average salary: AU$72,000 to AU$88,000 per yea
Assists people during withdrawal and stabilisation, offering reassurance, monitoring and clear guidance about next steps.
Wellbeing and Recovery Practitioner
Average salary: AU$80,000 to AU$95,000 per year*
Designs and delivers recovery programs that build resilience, wellbeing and lasting change for people and their families.
Alcohol and Other Drugs in Australia
Australia’s alcohol and other drugs sector plays a vital role in health and community services. More people are seeking support, early help and recovery programs, so there are growing job opportunities for trained alcohol and other drugs workers. This creates a strong pathway for learners who want to build real skills and make a positive difference.
Key industry data includes:
- In 2022 to 23 about 139,000 people received treatment for their own or someone else's alcohol or other drug use in publicly funded services across Australia, showing strong and ongoing demand for AOD support. (AIWH).
- In the same year there were more than 228,000 treatment episodes nationwide, with alcohol the most common principal drug of concern, followed by amphetamines and cannabis. This highlights the need for skilled AOD practitioners in community and health settings. (AIWH).
- There are hundreds of Alcohol and Other Drugs roles advertised on SEEK across Australia at any time, including Drug and Alcohol Counsellor, AOD Worker, Community Support Worker and Outreach Worker positions. This shows strong ongoing demand for skilled AOD practitioners in community, health and recovery services (SEEK).
Alcohol and other drugs workers are needed in many settings, including community services, health clinics, residential programs, youth services, homelessness services, justice programs and outreach teams. As awareness of alcohol and drug related harm increases, so does the demand for skilled workers who can support wellbeing, promote harm minimisation and walk alongside people on their recovery journey.
What Makes Studying With Us Unique
⭐ Empower Communities – Learn to develop programs that build resilience and inclusion for the community
⭐ Practical, Job-Ready Skills – Apply theory to real scenarios through hands-on experience in community settings.
⭐Expert Mentorship – Learn from trainers who’ve worked in youth services, mental health, and justice support; professionals who’ve walked the path you’re about to take.
⭐ Flexible Learning – Study online, with live evening Zoom classes, 1:1 trainer support, and flexible payment plans starting from $28 per week.
Skills You’ll Develop
Our nationally recognised Alcohol and Other Drugs courses equip learners with practical skills and clear frameworks to deliver safe, recovery focused support in community and health settings.
Throughout these programs, you will develop capability in
- Structured communication and documentation - Communicate clearly with clients, keep accurate records and use reporting systems that follow service requirements.
- Alcohol and Other Drugs assessment - Assess needs, recognise risk and identify the supports each person requires on their recovery pathway.
- Brief and ongoing interventions - Use evidence informed strategies for brief interventions, counselling, relapse prevention and treatment planning.
- Working with co existing needs - Support people who experience alcohol and other drugs concerns alongside mental health, physical health and social challenges.
- Trauma informed and culturally safe practice - Create safe, inclusive environments that respect lived experience, culture and community, and respond with sensitivity.
- Ethical, legal and collaborative practice - Follow legal and ethical requirements, respect privacy and rights, and work in partnership with families, services and communities.
These core skills help you perform with confidence, care and consistency in Alcohol and Other Drugs roles, so you can create real impact in the lives of others.
Find the Right Path for You
If you are ready to build capability and contribute to meaningful outcomes in the alcohol and other drugs sector, Hader Institute of Education offers three study options that support you from foundation skills to advanced practice.
The Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course introduces core skills in communication, cultural safety, mental health support, legal and ethical responsibilities and brief interventions.
The CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs builds practical skills in AOD assessment, intervention planning, co existing needs, communication, documentation and client-centred practice for work in community based and recovery focused AOD services.
The CHC53215 Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs develops advanced capability in counselling, case management, trauma informed care, relapse prevention, treatment planning and advocacy, supporting progression into specialist and leadership pathways across AOD and community health.
Each qualification builds on the last, guiding you from core knowledge to advanced capability in Australias growing Alcohol and Other Drugs workforce.
Youth Activity Coordinator
Community Support Assistant
Volunteer Program Worker
Entry-Level Youth Support Officer
Youth Justice Officer
Community Development Worker
Addiction Counsellor
Child Protection Worker
Case Manager or Support Coordinator
Youth Outreach Specialist
Youth and Family Services Coordinator
Community Development Manager
Youth Housing or Mental Health Manager
Youth Services Leader
(AQF Level 4)
(AQF Level 5)
Residential Support Worker
Assistant Community Development Officer
Youth Worker
Mental Health Support Worker
Domestic Violence Worker
Case Worker Community Services
Outreach Officer
Welfare Support Worker
Health Education Officer
Community Legal Officer
Welfare Rights Worker
Care Team Leader
Family Support Worker
Housing Manager
Community Services Coordinator
Family Support Worker
Community Development Officer
Community Engagement Officer
(AQF Level 4)
(AQF Level 5)
Community Support Worker
Peer Support Worker
Mental Health Outreach Worker
Community Support Worker
Mental Health Intake Officer
Mental Health Outreach Worker
Mental Health Rehabilitation Support Worker
Mental Health Services
Rehabilitation Counsellor
Community Rehabilitation and Support Worker
Mental Health Outreach Worker
Mental Health Rehabilitation Support Worker
(AQF Level 4)
(AQF Level 5)
Community Support Worker
Outreach Worker
Mental Health Support Worker
Crisis Intervention Support
Detoxification Support Worker
Case Worker
Community Outreach Officer
Wellbeing Support Worker
Advocacy and Support Assistant
Case Manager
Recovery Program Facilitator
Dual Diagnosis Practitioner
Community Program Coordinator
Wellbeing and Support Leader
Behavioural Support Officer
Client Liaison or Advocacy Assistant
Community Outreach or Social Services Officer
Forensic or Legal Administrative Support
Crime Scene Support Officer
Legal or Police Administrative Support
Intelligence Analyst (Entry-Level)
Journalism or Research Assistant
(AQF Level 4)
(AQF Level 4)
CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs with 12 core units and 3 elective units, delivered in a single integrated dual study plan.
CHC40421 Certificate IV in Youth Work with 15 core units and 2 elective units, combined into one coordinated dual program.
Community rehabilitation and support worker
Alcohol and drugs worker
Drug and alcohol counsellor
Detoxification worker
Mental health intake officer
Mental health outreach worker
Case worker
Youth outreach officer
Youth program facilitator
Community support worker
Case worker
Outreach officer
Information and referral worker
Welfare support worker
Ready to make a difference?
Start your journey in Alcohol and Other Drugs with Hader Institute of Education, trusted by thousands of students across Australia. Gain practical experience, build real skills, and become part of Australia’s growing AOD workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What impact does alcohol and other drugs support have on people and communities?
It involves supporting people affected by substance‑use challenges. It offers counselling, education, and intervention that promote wellbeing and long term change. This work not only supports individuals but also strengthens families and communities affected by addiction. The focus is on empowering people through recovery focused care.
The role requires emotional resilience, empathy, and a deep understanding of harm minimisation, trauma informed care, and person centred practice.
Are your Alcohol and Other Drugs qualifications nationally recognised?
Yes! All Alcohol and Other Drugs qualifications offered by Hader Institute of Education, including the Short Course, Certificate IV (CHC43215), and Diploma (CHC53215), are nationally recognised and accredited under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
Can I study alcohol and other drugs online in Australia?
Absolutely. All programs are delivered online using a flexible model that includes:
- Self-paced study modules
- Weekly Zoom classes
- Pre-recorded learning sessions
- Trainer support and real-world case studies
What are the entry requirements for your AOD courses?
To enrol, you must be at least 18 years old, have completed Year 12 or successfully completed a literacy and numeracy quiz, have basic computer skills, and have reliable internet access.
What job opportunities are available after course completion?
Graduates may work in roles such as:
- Alcohol and Other Drugs Support Worker
- Community Support Worker
- Case Worker
- Outreach Worker
- Crisis Intervention Worker
Typical work settings
- Alcohol and other drugs treatment services
- Not-for-profit and charity organisations
- Community-based mental health programs
- Residential rehabilitation centres
- Crisis support and outreach teams
Does the course include any practical work placement?
No work placement is required for our Online Alcohol and Other Drugs Courses.
How much does a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor earn in Australia?
Entry-level roles typically offer $65,000 to $75,000 per year.
Experienced professionals can earn up to $80,000 to $90,000 annually depending on the role, employer, and location.
Source: Talent.com –Alcohol other drugs worker: Average Salary in Australia, 2025 | SEEK Career Advice – Mental Health Support Worker Salary
How long does it take to finish Mental Health Drug and Alcohol Courses?
At Hader Institute of Education, this depends on which particular program you choose.
The following courses take around 12 weeks to complete:
- Mental Health Short Course
- Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Courses
Meanwhile, these courses take approximately 12 months to complete:
- CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health
- CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health
- CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs
- CHC53215 Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs
Can you get Mental Health Drug and Alcohol qualifications online?
Yes, you can complete nationally recognised qualifications entirely online through Hader Institute of Education. We offer a flexible learning format that allows you to study from anywhere in Australia. This makes it easier to manage study alongside daily life. Learning remotely means you can progress without travel or rigid schedules, while still accessing quality training, resources, and support.
Are Certificate IV qualifications the same as a Bachelor’s degree?
No, they are not the same, but courses like Cert IV Alcohol and Other Drugs online (CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs) and CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health still offer strong practical value.
While not equivalent to a full university degree, these courses can help you land roles in the sector and can contribute credits towards further study if you decide to advance later.
They’re a solid step forward if you’re exploring community addiction course options or aiming for drug and alcohol support worker certification.
Find Out More About Opportunities After Mental Health Drug And Alcohol Courses
Mental health drug and alcohol courses help people turn care and compassion into practical support. These programs are for anyone who wants to be part of the solution, especially when it comes to understanding mental health and substance use challenges in real-life settings.
Through mental health or alcohol and other drugs education, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to provide care that is both respectful and informed. Many students are also drawn to study a mental health or alcohol and drug support course to strengthen their ability to contribute to the community.
If you’re wondering how to become a mental health worker or start your career in addiction work, our courses at Hader Institute of Education can be the beginning of that journey.
Every graduate steps into a community where care makes a difference.
Every graduate walks away with more than just knowledge. They carry the ability to support others and make a meaningful difference. At Hader Institute of Education, we celebrate each step forward, knowing your growth can positively shape lives. After all, our mental health drug and alcohol courses meet national standards and form the foundation for recognised qualifications.
We have a variety of courses available under our Mental Health and Drugs and Alcohol areas of study, so you can find something that fits you, whether you need a Cert IV in mental health or want to earn an online mental health diploma. We offer programs like:
- Mental Health Short Course
- Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course
- CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health
- CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs
- CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health
- CHC53215 Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs.
When you choose to study drug and alcohol support work or go through mental health training, you prepare for roles where compassion and professional insight come together. With the right training, many go on to become a Drug and Alcohol Support Worker, Mental Health Support Worker, Crisis Intervention Worker, or something similar.
Our graduates typically go on to work in residential rehabilitation centres, not-for-profit organisations, and mental health outreach programs. With accredited mental health and AOD training, you’ll gain the capabilities and confidence to provide support that truly matters.
When you have the right mental health and drug and alcohol worker qualifications, you’re stepping into a role that brings hope, understanding, and recovery into people’s lives.
Real-world learning means you’re prepared to provide real care.
Learning is most impactful when it prepares you for real life. At Hader Institute of Education, we make sure the skills you gain through mental health drug and alcohol courses are not just learned but lived.
For instance, our CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health and CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health courses come with a work placement requirement. Students in these courses can gain real-world experience that makes a genuine impact in community settings through our partnership with SkilTrak, a portal for tracking your hours, progress, and upcoming requirements.
So, if you’re looking for practical community health training and mental health courses online that ease the transition from classroom learning to real career experience, turn to Hader Institute of Education. Students can also access our Job-Ready Program, which offers resume and cover letter writing assistance, job search support, and more insights and tools for your transition into the workforce.
Your willingness to study and the skills you’ll build matter, too.
It’s not always about having all the technical skills. Empathy, patience, and adaptability matter just as much. As you build emotional resilience and learn to navigate real-life challenges, you’ll gain the confidence to support others when it matters most.
We facilitate this by fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Whether you just want to learn more about how to become a Drug and Alcohol Support Worker, are returning to study, or are shifting your career, Hader Institute of Education welcomes you.
Our flexible learning options make it easier to stay on track, too. With weekly Zoom sessions that are recorded in case you miss them live, self-paced modules, and one-on-one support, your study can fit around your life. And we even have a Learner Support Team that offers technical help, answers admin questions, and provides study guidance.
If you’re exploring mental health drug and alcohol courses or looking into mental health peer worker training, this is the right place to begin.
We believe learning should be accessible and straightforward.
We believe everyone deserves an accessible path into education. That’s why we offer flexible payment options for our programs, including mental health drug and alcohol courses, to ease the pressure. These include:
- Interest-free Study Now, Pay Later plans through PayRight or Elevant
- Upfront payments via EFT or credit card
- Weekly or fortnightly plans through Student Pay or Debit Success
So, if you’re looking for drug and alcohol or mental health short courses, Certificate IV courses, or diploma courses, you can turn to us to start your education with less financial strain.
Grow your capacity to make a difference.
At Hader Institute of Education, we believe education should be practical, inclusive, and life-changing. Our nationally recognised mental health drug and alcohol courses help you gain the tools to offer meaningful support. With us, you can gain the confidence and knowledge to contribute to your community and take the next step in your career.
Study online with us and apply today.
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