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- Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs
Learn about harm minimisation as you begin a rewarding career in the alcohol and other drugs sector. Support and empower a variety of clients and work in community based organisations, outreach services and residential rehabilitation services.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
work with people affected by alcohol and other drugs
identify issues and find the right supports for clients
create support plans with clients
communicate effectively
work with people who have mental health concerns.
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally accredited qualification at Certificate IV level.
Work experience in the alcohol and other drugs sector.
A sound understanding of best practices in the field.
A solid foundation for a career in the sector.
A pathway to diploma-level study.
Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
an interest in working in the alcohol and other drugs sector
the ability to get a Working With Children Check (WWCC)
the ability to obtain a National Police Check which is clear of significant issues such as assault, fraud, child protection issues and domestic violence
patience and can relate to others easily
good teamwork skills
good communication skills
the ability to plan your work and try to solve problems on your own
an understanding of documents you see often in everyday life
the ability to write short sentences and paragraphs that others can understand
the ability to speak clearly and explain your thoughts in a group
the skills to do everyday maths like working out prices or reading a timetable
the skills to use email, search the internet and open files.
This qualification contains content, concepts and scenarios that may be distressing. Please consider your personal resilience and any potential emotional triggers when participating in this qualification and in any future employment in this field.
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
This simple tool guides you to a suitable course level based on your foundation skills and confidence.
Our graduates go onto roles like:
Community Workers facilitate community development initiatives and collective solutions within a community to address issues, needs and problems associated with recreational, health, housing, employment and other welfare matters.
66%
9,400 workers
45 years
$1,340
40 hours
High
80% female
Strong Growth
Other jobs include: alcohol and other drugs community rehabilitation worker, community rehabilitation and support worker, mental health outreach worker, drug and alcohol community support worker, outreach officer (alcohol and other drugs) and youth alcohol and other drugs worker.
There are many career pathways and opportunities to choose from when you graduate from the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs. It’s important to check the licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements relating to your future career by visiting NSW Fair Trading or your state licensing body.
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
The Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs does not have any post-graduate courses.
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 17 units of competency , including 12 core and 5 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community