WUNGENING ABORIGINAL CORPORATION – Healing Mind, Body & Spirit
WA’s most progressive Aboriginal Corporation is seeking to fill a Senior AOD Counsellor/Educator role for our Acacia Prison program. This is a fixed term opportunity for 3 to 6 months located at Acacia Prison.
First Nations people are strongly encouraged to apply.
ABOUT THE ORGANISATION
For nearly 35 years, Wungening has led the way with culturally secure programs. Our core focus is addressing the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs on individuals, families, and communities.
To heal mind, body and spirit, we proudly provide:
- Alcohol and other drug programs
- A refuge for women and children escaping family violence
- A culturally responsive emergency relief program
- Reintegration and accommodation support (justice)
We also lead a suite of cross-agency alliances, supporting:
- Reintegration into community after release from prison
- In-home support services aimed at keeping children safe at home
- Pathways to housing for the homeless
Committed to Aboriginal-led solutions, our board of directors and CEO are all Aboriginal people. We currently work from 14 metro locations and employ over 200 staff.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Acacia In-Custody service is an integral part of the Real Support Network (RSN) made up of a number of Community Agencies to provide support to inmates in Acacia prison. Wungening is contracted to provide AOD supports to Aboriginal clients (only) under the RSN banner. We will work with any Aboriginal client providing them with individual and Group AOD support prior to release in preparation for referring on to the Wungening In-Community AOD support team prior to the prisoner’s release where they will continue to receive Case Management AOD support when returning to the community and in the community.
The Senior AOD Counsellor/Educator – Acacia (In Custody Support) will spend one-on-one time with inmates, conducting culturally safe and trauma informed support sessions in an environment that best supports the individual prisoner’s psychological safety.
The Senior AOD Counsellor/Educator – Acacia (In Custody Support) will provide counselling and mental health support to assist in reducing incidents of self-harm and provide alcohol and drug information, education, and support to address the harmful effects of alcohol, drugs, and other substances on prisoners and their families and communities.
The Senior AOD Counsellor/Educator – Acacia (In Custody Support) will prepare inmates for reintegrating with family and community post-release and will collaborate with in-community support worker to ensure each prisoner is holistically supported post-release. Prisoners who are identified as in need of ongoing case management support may be referred for In-Community Service.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
- Commitment to providing AOD services in a culturally strong and safe way.
- Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs, or similar, and/or desire to obtain these skills.
- Experience providing AOD Counselling in a relevant setting.
- Demonstrated knowledge and respect for Aboriginal culture, protocols, and boundaries.
- Knowledge of challenges and services from an AOD context.
- Understanding of, and commitment to working to key performance indicators.
- Developed computer skills, including Microsoft Office Outlook, Word, and Teams.
- Experience in collecting data, analysing information, and preparing reports.
WORKING WITH WUNGENING – BENEFITS AT A GLANCE
In addition to fulfilling a passion for social justice and community healing, you will enjoy the many benefits of our generous Enterprise Bargaining Award Agreement, including:
- 37.5 Hour week
- 2 wellness days per year
- 3-day additional Christmas shutdown leave
- 4-week top-up maternity leave
- Excellent Salary Packaging options available
- Long Service after 6 years
- Mentoring and training opportunities
- Clear pathways for advancement
Join us in creating a healthy, safe, strong and sustainable Aboriginal community
IMPORTANT NOTES FOR APPLICANTS:
Applications must include a cover letter addressing the essential criteria , plus a concise CV clearly outlining your qualifications and experience.
Applications close Friday 25th August 2023
All enquiries should be directed to Michael Winton (Manager – Ngalla Wirrin Wungening (AOD Support Services)) on 9221-1411
Being suitable for a position does not guarantee an offer of employment.
We reserve the right to close applications and appoint prior to the nominated closing date.