Short Course

Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course

This twelve-week online program is ideal for beginners wanting a practical introduction to the AOD sector, covering core skills in communication, advocacy, and cultural safety to explore pathways or further study.

Blended Online
At Your Pace
$28 per week
Statement of Attainment

About the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course

This introductory course comprises 8 units from our nationally recognised (CHC43215) Certificate IV in Alcohol & Other Drugs. The course focuses on community-based support for people that have alcohol & other drug issues and is ideal for beginners looking to enter the mental health sector or those aiming for a pathway into further education, such as a (CHC43215) Certificate IV in Alcohol & Other Drugs or related field.

What will you learn online?

Upon completing this course, participants will be equipped to:

  • Work respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including culturally sensitive approaches.
  • Provide client-centred support to those affected by alcohol and other drugs.
  • Understand the legal and ethical frameworks in the AOD context.
  • Implement brief interventions and monitor client progress.
  • Develop strategies for mental health support and crisis intervention.

Available Online Units

The Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course is delivered using the course structure outlined below:

Core Units

CHCDIV001: Work with Diverse People

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work effectively with a range of diverse individuals, families, carers and/or communities.

It applies to workers who interface with diverse people as part of their job role. It includes interacting with people from diverse backgrounds in a range of contexts. It also includes having an awareness of own personal values, attitudes and beliefs and how these may impact working with diverse people.

At the end of this unit, students should be able to:

  • Engage diverse individuals, families, carers and/or communities in a way that meets their needs promote their strengths and are culturally safe.
  • Communicate with diverse individuals, families, carers and/or communities using methods and language that are appropriate to their needs.
  • Promote the inclusion and participation of diverse individuals, families, carers and/or communities.
  • Use effective interpersonal skills to support the development of respectful relationships with diverse individuals, families, carers and/or communities.
  • Reflect on personal values, attitudes and beliefs and how they may impact working with diverse individuals

It applies to workers across a range of community work and services contexts who take responsibility for their own outputs within an established framework. They work under broad supervision and guidance from others.

CHCDIV002: Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Safety

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety within own job role.

This unit applies to workers across a broad range of community service contexts who work collaboratively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. They may work with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander individuals, families or communities in a direct service capacity or in an indirect service capacity.

Workers at this level maintain cultural safety by ensuring their own attitudes, knowledge, behaviours, and values do not judgementally affect service provision.

They work to ensure that the service environment and delivery are culturally safe for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients. This includes promoting the use of interpreters and other strategies to facilitate communication.

Workers may be required to provide leadership and guidance to others in promoting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety.

This unit applies to workers across a range of community work and services contexts who take responsibility for their own outputs within an established framework. They work under broad supervision and guidance from others.

CHCCOM002: Use Communication to Build Relationships

This unit covers the skills and knowledge required to use communication to build relationships. It includes identifying opportunities and strategies for building relationships, using effective communication techniques, and maintaining relationships.

This unit is relevant to workers in a range of community, health and human service contexts who work with clients, co-workers and other stakeholders.

This unit is important because it will provide you with the skills and knowledge to use communication to build relationships. It is also important to be able to maintain these relationships.

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Identify opportunities and strategies for building relationships
  • Use effective communication techniques
  • Maintain relationships.

CHCDFV001: Recognise and Respond Appropriately to Domestic and Family Violence

This unit covers the knowledge and skills required to recognise and respond appropriately to domestic and family violence. This includes understanding the dynamics of domestic and family violence, identifying signs of domestic and family violence, and responding safely and effectively to disclosures of domestic and family violence.

Handling domestic and family violence is a complex task. This unit will give you the skills and knowledge to safely and effectively support people experiencing or at risk of domestic and family violence.

At the end of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the dynamics of domestic and family violence
  • Identify signs of domestic and family violence
  • Respond safely and effectively to disclosures of domestic and family violence
  • Refer clients who disclose domestic and family violence to appropriate services.

CHCLEG001: Work Legally and Ethically

This unit covers the legislation and professional, ethical frameworks governing the mental health industry. Learners will be able to identify and apply appropriate legal and ethical principles in the provision of mental health services.

This unit is important because it ensures that workers in the mental health industry are providing services in a legal and ethical manner. It is crucial that all workers in this industry understand the relevant legislation and professional, ethical frameworks in order to provide safe and effective services to their clients.

At the end of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Identify and apply relevant legislation and professional, ethical frameworks in the provision of mental health services
  • Understand the implications of non-compliance with legal and ethical requirements
  • Access and interpret mental health legislation and professional, ethical frameworks

CHCMHS001: Work with people with mental health issues

This qualification reflects the role of workers who provide services and interventions to young people with mental health issues. Workers at this level have a diploma-level qualification and work independently under broad directions from senior management.

This qualification is designed for people working in youth work and other community contexts who provide direct support to young people with mental health issues.

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will have the skills and knowledge required to:

  • Work with young people with mental health issues
  • Develop and implement support plans
  • Provide crisis intervention
  • Liaise with other agencies and professionals
  • Promote the recovery model
  • Reflect on and improve your own practice.

CHCAOD001: Work in an Alcohol and Other Drugs Context

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work in an alcohol and other drugs context. It covers identifying clients with AOD issues, working with clients who have AOD issues, and referral of clients with AOD issues.

This unit applies to workers who provide direct alcohol and other drugs services to clients. They work under general supervision and may have responsibility for leading other workers.

CHCCCS014: Provide brief interventions

This unit provides students with the skills and knowledge required to provide brief interventions. Students will learn how to identify and respond to the needs of individuals and groups using a range of communication methods.

This unit is important because it helps students to develop the skills they need to provide support to people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. By completing this unit, students will be better equipped to provide effective support to clients.

At the end of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Identify and respond to the needs of individuals and groups
  • Use a range of communication methods
  • Provide support to clients

Elective Units

No items found.

What career could I have?

Graduates of this short course will be prepared for entry-level roles such as:

  • Alcohol & Other Drugs Support Worker
  • Community Support Worker
  • Case Worker
  • Outreach Worker
  • Crisis Intervention Worker

Frequently Asked Questions about the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course

What are the most frequently asked questions about the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

What are the Student Entry requirements for the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
  • Have completed their education to a level which is equivalent to an Australian Senior High School Year 12 or Learners are required to pass an online LLN assessment test at or above level 3 in reading, writing and numeracy.
  • Have suitable language, literacy and numeracy skills to read and comprehend learning materials and perform tasks related to recording workplace documents including reading and writing detailed reports, case notes, reports and other documents, interpreting workplace policy and procedure and reporting hazards.
  • Have sound computer skills to navigate simple software to complete the online component of this course and must be able to use intermediate level Word features in order to produce and present word-processed documents/ reports.
  • Have access to a laptop and internet to complete this online course.
  • These entry requirements will be confirmed through information collected on the online application and during the enrolment interview.

How will you learn the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

This online short course in Alcohol & Other Drugs offers a flexible, self-paced learning environment, allowing you to balance study with other commitments. The short course includes pre-recorded teaching sessions, providing an interactive and engaging learning experience. You will also have access to real-world case studies and support from experienced instructors.

Accreditation

Upon successful completion, learners will receive a statement of attainment recognising the units of competency completed. These units can be used to credit transfer to create a pathway into further education, such as a (CHC43215) Certificate IV in Alcohol & Other Drugs or (CHC53215) Diploma of Alcohol & Other Drugs or related field.

What learning support will I receive when studying the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

Hader Institute provides support to all learners through the trainer and the Hader Institute of Education Learner Support Officer.

How will be I be assessed for the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

The online learning program includes:

  • Pre-recorded teaching sessions, providing an interactive and engaging learning experience.
  • Access to real-world case studies and support from experienced instructors.
  • Written assessments.
  • Multiple choice questionnaires.

Do you offer recognition of prior learning for the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

Applicants can apply for recognition of their existing skills and knowledge that are relevant to the units of competency within the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course. See the Hader Institute of Education Learner Handbook and policies and procedures.

How much does the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course cost?

The Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course fee varies depending on the provider. At Hader Institute, the course costs $2,995.00, with interest-free weekly payments starting from just $28 per week. For full details, please refer to the Schedule of Fees and Charges.

What are the payment options for the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

There are a number of payment options available for learners studying a Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course. The student tuition fees can be paid upfront or in installments. Hader Institute offers several flexible payment plans for all our students.

How can I enrol in the Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course?

If you’re interested in enrolling in Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course, the first step is to contact Hader Institute. One of our friendly Student Enrolment Advisors will guide you through the enrolment process and answer any questions you have. You can reach us by phone on 03 8362 3113 or by email at info@haderinstitute.edu.au.

Accreditation

Upon successful completion, learners will receive a statement of attainment recognising the units of competency completed. These units can be used to credit transfer to create a pathway into further education, such as a CHC42021 Certificate IV or CHC52021 in Community Services or related field.

Related Courses

Study online from as little as $28 per week, interest free. For details on easy and flexible payment options, call 03 8362 3113.

Duration: 
12 weeks (180 hrs)
Delivery: 
Blended Online
Access From a Computer or Tablet
Talk to a Student Recruitment Advisor*

* In-person or Virtual Meeting

I’ve been studying with Hader Institute for the past year and am currently completing my Diploma in Youth Work. My experience so far has been nothing short of outstanding.I’ve had the absolute pleasure of having Viki as my lecturer. She consistently delivers rich, detailed education throughout our online classes. Viki is approachable, enthusiastic, and always eager to answer any question—never with judgment, always with encouragement.Hader Institute itself is incredibly supportive. They regularly check in with phone calls to see how I’m progressing and to offer any additional support I might need. That level of care is rare and genuinely appreciated.The learning environment is both supportive and informative. Compared to other institutions I’ve studied at, I can honestly say I’ve never felt so comfortable, accepted, and encouraged in an educational setting. The sense of being valued as a student makes a huge difference.Highly recommend Hader Institute to anyone looking to further their education in a welcoming and empowering environment.

Maria Blackwood

I'm really glad I chose to study at Hader. A big shoutout to my lecturer Blake for being so encouraging and always taking the time to explain things clearly. Also, thank you to the learner support team, they’ve been super helpful whenever I needed a hand

Mai Huong Nguyen

I’ve been working in Community Services for the past six years. I got into this work because I love helping people, not because of my studies. When I finally decided to study, I spent a lot of time looking for the best option that would fit my life. I was working full-time as a youth worker, married, and had a newborn at home. I couldn’t go to face-to-face classes, so studying online was my only choice.I’m over 40 and hadn’t studied in more than 20 years, so starting again was really hard. Learning how to use a new website, understanding how the classes and assessments worked, and even things like what “RPL” meant were all new to me. After a long week at work, keeping up with classes felt overwhelming. I think it’s tough for any adult to go back to studying after so long.Even though it was a big challenge, the Hader Institute supported me all the way. They guided me, kept me on track, and made me feel like I was part of something. But the real difference for me was Viki Hannah. Her kindness, patience, and encouragement really helped me move forward. She saw the experience I already had and helped me believe in myself during some really hard times. I feel like I found a mentor without even looking for one — and that’s something special.I truly hope I can keep in touch with Viki, and it’s good to know I can always reach out to Hader Institute again if I ever need support.

Dani Carpentier

Viki Hannah was an absolute great help to me during my course, provided me with one on one support every week to help me get through all my roleplay assessments, I alway felt that Viki went out of her way to make sure that I was supported in every way that I needed to be able to complete my study.had a great experience during my final work placement observation. Charlotte’s instructions to help me prepare for the assessment were very clear and helpful, and she also supported me with a job I am applying for. I’m very grateful for the guidance and support I received from Hader Institute of Education!

Alex Vesseur

My Trainer was Viki Hannah, what I liked most about our work together in classes and assessment support was how approachable and supportive you were. You always explained things clearly and took the time to make sure I understood, especially when I felt unsure about certain parts of the work. Your encouragement really helped boost my confidence. You made a real positive difference to my experience. For example, during my assessment preparation, you gave really helpful one-to-one guidance that made the tasks feel more manageable. I felt more organised and motivated because of your help. Thank you

dharti bhute

A great place to study with, and a massive thank you to Cayan! An absolute awesome educator with sound knowledge and always happy to go above and beyond to get his students across the line. A top bloke as well. Couldn't be happier with the way he conducts himself professionally.

Rahnee Hay

I want to thank Hader for hearing my special need's for my cert 4 AOD course and connecting me with Viki Hannah.Viki has dedicated her time with me to answer any concerns and question's regarding my studies. Viki has always been attentive to help me understand where I may be having trouble understanding. Viki does this by using her amazing skills in communication, compassion, empathy, experience and wisdom.I would also like to thank the amazing Duane for doing the same while facilitating our weekly 3 hour class. Hader has a great team of dedicated people and I feel happy that I chose Hader.

Mem Gulay

The best staff and study experience. Really positive environment and helping nature of everyone listening to the queries and everything. I am glad I made the right decision. My trainer Viki is the most supportive and emotionally intelligent woman. She is someone you can always rely upon.

Jasmeet Mann

My experiences with Hader has been wonderful and they have made me feel right at home in my studies in cert IV mental health.Cayan has been the teacher for our Wednesday night classes and he has been amazing in his delivery of the units we have completed and is always readily available with any help or advice we need.He is a very valued part of the institute of education and comes highly recommended.I would also like to give a shout out to Vicki who has been ready to answer any queries I have had and provide any extra guidance I have needed.My Initial contact person Sasha was amazing in explaining the ins and out of the course structures and so on and is also always available to answer any of my questions.I have also had conversations with Mika, a learning support officer who has been, and is a treasure trove of information and has been a fantastic support throughout.Whether you are starting out your education journey or trying to get back into the workforce in a second career through further learning, Hader Institute has you covered in all angles and will ensure you succeed in whichever career path you choose.Best wishesMartin O'Connor

martin oconnor

I am delighted to provide a referral based on my experience studying with the Hader Institute. After much contemplation, I began my studies in late October, enrolling in the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD). At the age of 55, I initially worried that I might be “too old” to return to education. To my surprise and delight, I’ve nearly completed my first course and have even progressed to the AOD Diploma.Choosing the right educational institution was a significant decision for me. The affordability of Hader’s fees and the flexible content delivery were key factors that made it stand out. I’ve found the option to attend Duane’s incredibly informative online classes when needed invaluable, while also having the freedom to request extra modules so I can study at my own pace.The support I’ve received from the trainers has been exceptional. Mika, in particular, has been wonderfully encouraging, and Sasha’s patience and wealth of knowledge have made navigating my studies much easier, even as I ask countless questions. As someone who isn’t particularly comfortable with technology, I’ve also greatly appreciated the simplicity and user-friendliness of the Axcelerate portal—it’s been such a relief.Embarking on this journey was a big decision, but I am now immensely grateful that I chose Hader Institute. The support, flexibility, and resources provided have made all the difference, and I’m thrilled with the progress I’ve made so far.

Lisa Crisp

I’ve been studying with Hader Institute for the past year and am currently completing my Diploma in Youth Work. My experience so far has been nothing short of outstanding.I’ve had the absolute pleasure of having Viki as my lecturer. She consistently delivers rich, detailed education throughout our online classes. Viki is approachable, enthusiastic, and always eager to answer any question—never with judgment, always with encouragement.Hader Institute itself is incredibly supportive. They regularly check in with phone calls to see how I’m progressing and to offer any additional support I might need. That level of care is rare and genuinely appreciated.The learning environment is both supportive and informative. Compared to other institutions I’ve studied at, I can honestly say I’ve never felt so comfortable, accepted, and encouraged in an educational setting. The sense of being valued as a student makes a huge difference.Highly recommend Hader Institute to anyone looking to further their education in a welcoming and empowering environment.

Maria Blackwood

I'm really glad I chose to study at Hader. A big shoutout to my lecturer Blake for being so encouraging and always taking the time to explain things clearly. Also, thank you to the learner support team, they’ve been super helpful whenever I needed a hand

Mai Huong Nguyen

I’ve been working in Community Services for the past six years. I got into this work because I love helping people, not because of my studies. When I finally decided to study, I spent a lot of time looking for the best option that would fit my life. I was working full-time as a youth worker, married, and had a newborn at home. I couldn’t go to face-to-face classes, so studying online was my only choice.I’m over 40 and hadn’t studied in more than 20 years, so starting again was really hard. Learning how to use a new website, understanding how the classes and assessments worked, and even things like what “RPL” meant were all new to me. After a long week at work, keeping up with classes felt overwhelming. I think it’s tough for any adult to go back to studying after so long.Even though it was a big challenge, the Hader Institute supported me all the way. They guided me, kept me on track, and made me feel like I was part of something. But the real difference for me was Viki Hannah. Her kindness, patience, and encouragement really helped me move forward. She saw the experience I already had and helped me believe in myself during some really hard times. I feel like I found a mentor without even looking for one — and that’s something special.I truly hope I can keep in touch with Viki, and it’s good to know I can always reach out to Hader Institute again if I ever need support.

Dani Carpentier

Viki Hannah was an absolute great help to me during my course, provided me with one on one support every week to help me get through all my roleplay assessments, I alway felt that Viki went out of her way to make sure that I was supported in every way that I needed to be able to complete my study.had a great experience during my final work placement observation. Charlotte’s instructions to help me prepare for the assessment were very clear and helpful, and she also supported me with a job I am applying for. I’m very grateful for the guidance and support I received from Hader Institute of Education!

Alex Vesseur

My Trainer was Viki Hannah, what I liked most about our work together in classes and assessment support was how approachable and supportive you were. You always explained things clearly and took the time to make sure I understood, especially when I felt unsure about certain parts of the work. Your encouragement really helped boost my confidence. You made a real positive difference to my experience. For example, during my assessment preparation, you gave really helpful one-to-one guidance that made the tasks feel more manageable. I felt more organised and motivated because of your help. Thank you

dharti bhute

A great place to study with, and a massive thank you to Cayan! An absolute awesome educator with sound knowledge and always happy to go above and beyond to get his students across the line. A top bloke as well. Couldn't be happier with the way he conducts himself professionally.

Rahnee Hay

I want to thank Hader for hearing my special need's for my cert 4 AOD course and connecting me with Viki Hannah.Viki has dedicated her time with me to answer any concerns and question's regarding my studies. Viki has always been attentive to help me understand where I may be having trouble understanding. Viki does this by using her amazing skills in communication, compassion, empathy, experience and wisdom.I would also like to thank the amazing Duane for doing the same while facilitating our weekly 3 hour class. Hader has a great team of dedicated people and I feel happy that I chose Hader.

Mem Gulay

The best staff and study experience. Really positive environment and helping nature of everyone listening to the queries and everything. I am glad I made the right decision. My trainer Viki is the most supportive and emotionally intelligent woman. She is someone you can always rely upon.

Jasmeet Mann

My experiences with Hader has been wonderful and they have made me feel right at home in my studies in cert IV mental health.Cayan has been the teacher for our Wednesday night classes and he has been amazing in his delivery of the units we have completed and is always readily available with any help or advice we need.He is a very valued part of the institute of education and comes highly recommended.I would also like to give a shout out to Vicki who has been ready to answer any queries I have had and provide any extra guidance I have needed.My Initial contact person Sasha was amazing in explaining the ins and out of the course structures and so on and is also always available to answer any of my questions.I have also had conversations with Mika, a learning support officer who has been, and is a treasure trove of information and has been a fantastic support throughout.Whether you are starting out your education journey or trying to get back into the workforce in a second career through further learning, Hader Institute has you covered in all angles and will ensure you succeed in whichever career path you choose.Best wishesMartin O'Connor

martin oconnor

I am delighted to provide a referral based on my experience studying with the Hader Institute. After much contemplation, I began my studies in late October, enrolling in the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD). At the age of 55, I initially worried that I might be “too old” to return to education. To my surprise and delight, I’ve nearly completed my first course and have even progressed to the AOD Diploma.Choosing the right educational institution was a significant decision for me. The affordability of Hader’s fees and the flexible content delivery were key factors that made it stand out. I’ve found the option to attend Duane’s incredibly informative online classes when needed invaluable, while also having the freedom to request extra modules so I can study at my own pace.The support I’ve received from the trainers has been exceptional. Mika, in particular, has been wonderfully encouraging, and Sasha’s patience and wealth of knowledge have made navigating my studies much easier, even as I ask countless questions. As someone who isn’t particularly comfortable with technology, I’ve also greatly appreciated the simplicity and user-friendliness of the Axcelerate portal—it’s been such a relief.Embarking on this journey was a big decision, but I am now immensely grateful that I chose Hader Institute. The support, flexibility, and resources provided have made all the difference, and I’m thrilled with the progress I’ve made so far.

Lisa Crisp
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Study online with us today!

info@haderinstitute.edu.au
(03) 8362 3113
G03, 615 Dandenong Road, Armadale 3144 VIC
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