How To Become A Drug And Alcohol Support Worker: 3 Steps
Learning how to become a drug and alcohol support worker often starts with one simple question: “Where do I begin?”
At Hader Institute of Education, we’re here to guide you as you try to find work in drug and alcohol services. Our nationally recognised training gives you practical tools and a strong foundation so you can keep showing up for others confidently.
What is the role of a drug and alcohol support worker?
Substance use support workers walk alongside people as they navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. It means:
- Listening with empathy and presence
- Building trust and creating space for honest conversations
- Sharing clear, respectful information
- Supporting realistic goals
- Offering steady encouragement and celebrating progress
So, what does it actually take to get started? Here’s how to become a drug and alcohol support worker in just a few steps.
Step #1: Find a study option that fits around your work and life.
At Hader Institute of Education, all online study courses to work in drug support and other fields are broken into clear, achievable steps, helping you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re exploring a new path or building on the work you already do, our structure supports you in making steady progress on your own time, with no pressure to be perfect.
And with guidance from experienced alcohol and drug support worker training experts, access to peer support, and a community that genuinely wants to see you grow, we’re here to help you move forward.
We help you feel supported and connected.
Weekly Zoom sessions give you live access to trainers so you can ask questions, hear examples, and stay connected to the rhythm of the course. If you can’t make it, recordings are always there to catch up when life gets in the way. And if you need extra help as you figure out how to become a drug and alcohol support worker, you can book helpful one-on-one mentoring.
You can access your course anytime and anywhere.
Our online courses are delivered through an easy-to-use platform. You can log in whenever it suits you and learn from wherever you are.
Everything you need, like course materials, assessments, and resources, is in one place. You can track your progress, move at your own pace, and shape a study routine that works around your responsibilities.
Step #2: Choose the right qualification for your career goals.
The Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course is a great place to start.
The Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course offers a gentle first step as you figure out how to become a drug and alcohol support worker. You’ll complete 8 units drawn from our nationally recognised CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs, giving you a strong foundation in how to support individuals facing challenges with alcohol and other drugs.
Together, we’ll explore topics like:
- Engaging with clients in a respectful, culturally sensitive manner
- Providing client-centred support and brief intervention techniques
- Understanding legal responsibilities and ethical frameworks in the AOD context
By the end, you’ll have real-world skills you can take into roles such as a community support worker or crisis intervention worker.
CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs is ideal for people who want practical skills for entry-level roles.
The CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs builds real-world skills you can use in entry-level roles across the sector, including:
- Assessing and responding to client needs
- Providing brief interventions
- Working with diverse communities
When you complete the CHC43215 Cert IV Alcohol and Other Drugs online course, you’ll be equipped to step into roles such as detoxification worker or alcohol and drug case worker.
CHC53215 Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs can prepare you for more advanced roles.
The CHC53215 Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs prepares you for meaningful roles such as mental health worker, dual diagnosis practitioner, or psychosocial rehabilitation worker, which are roles that call for both confidence and compassion.
When you pursue this diploma online, you’ll cover real-world topics that matter deeply in this work, including:
- Supporting relapse prevention and ongoing recovery
- Practising trauma-informed care with empathy and awareness
- Applying research and evidence to guide your practice
Step #3: Get started with your career.
At Hader Institute of Education, we make sure you’re prepared through our Job-Ready Program.
We support you with practical strategies to help you find the right career in addiction support.
This includes using job search platforms, reaching out to your network, connecting with alumni, and exploring job fairs to uncover new opportunities. As part of our learning community, you’ll also have access to job leads and early opportunities.
As you navigate how to become a drug and alcohol support worker, you’ll even receive personalised support to strengthen your resume and prepare for interviews, so you feel ready when opportunities arise.
We also offer strong work placement support through different media.
Our national network of partners, including respected organisations such as Hader Institute of Education Clinics, gives you access to a wide range of placement opportunities across the country.
What’s more, through our placement portal, SkilTrak, you can track your hours, monitor your progress, and stay on top of what is required next as you navigate how to become a drug and alcohol support worker. This portal also gives you access to industry mentors, feedback to help you grow your skills, and opportunities to connect with professionals.
Our friendly placement coordinators are here to help you find a placement that suits your goals. And if you are unable to find one nearby, we will help you arrange something closer to home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can you support someone struggling with addiction?
Drug and alcohol treatment support is done by listening without judgement, staying calm, and offering a consistent presence. Build trust by reflecting what you hear.
Encouraging them to seek professional help and offering to accompany them can make a big difference. It’s important to be patient, as recovery is often a long process with potential setbacks. All these and more are tackled in different Alcohol and Other Drugs courses online.
What career growth opportunities exist within drug and alcohol support services?
Career growth in drug and alcohol support services includes advancing from frontline roles to case management, drug and alcohol counselling, or leadership.
Professionals can lead programs, mentor staff, or specialise in alcohol and drug abuse support services like trauma care. Others transition into advocacy or education, utilising their experience to influence policy or train the next generation of workers.
What qualifications are essential to become a drug and alcohol support worker?
You will need to take Drug and Alcohol courses to become a support worker. For example, the CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs is essential to get started.
Our Alcohol and Other Drugs Short Course offers foundational knowledge without the pressure of a full qualification, while the CHC53215 Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs prepares you to manage complex cases and lead teams.
Help more people and grow your impact today.
At Hader Institute of Education, you can study community courses online at your own pace while still feeling supported by real trainers, active forums, and one-on-one guidance when needed. The content is practical and built for people working in the field, with clear pathways to employment and promotion for roles like addiction case management, psychosocial rehabilitation, and more.
If you’re wondering how to become a drug and alcohol support worker, don’t wait. Study online with us today.
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.
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
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.
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!
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.