Dr. Ed Ogden, Addiction Medicine Specialist, Swinburne University, GV Health, Austin Health and Hamilton Centre
In this presentation, Dr Ed Ogden discusses the barriers to treatment for people with co-occurring ADHD and substance use.
Slides: ADHD and Drug Use, Ed Ogden
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Mel Spencer OAM, CEO Different Journeys
In this presentation, Mel Spencer discusses her experiences navigating Victoria’s service system as a mother and carer of autistic children and as an autistic person. Her experiences led her to start Different Journeys, a not-for-profit dedicated to helping neurodivergent people access the appropriate support they need.
Slides: Navigating the Service System_Mel Spencer
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Dr Theresa Lynch, Chair, Pregnancy and Homelessness Coalition and
Kerri Felemonow, Manager, Women’s Alcohol and Drug Service
Slides: Lessons from the women’s movement – Kerri Felemenow
In this video, Theresa and Kerri highlight gaps in AOD treatment systems for women, and the importance of specialised, trauma-informed, gendered services to better support women affected by substance use.
Resources mentioned can be accessed here: Symposium Resource Hub
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Turning Point (RTO 6948) has been contracted by the Department of Health (DH Victoria) to deliver competency training and assessment opportunities to the Victorian AOD workforce.
This training targets employees currently in the AOD sector and employed in DH-funded AOD Services. Turning Point staff delivering the AOD competencies have clinical experience and meet the training and assessment requirements outlined in the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF).
Selection Criteria:
To enrol in the CHCSS00093 AOD Skill Set you must work in a publically funded organisation in the Victorian AOD sector.
Who is not eligible?
Please ensure you have clearance to attend from your line manager before enrolling.
Do not enrol if you cannot guarantee you can complete this course. If you change your mind, cancel your registration immediately to make room for someone else.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish and work within the current context, philosophy and values of the AOD sector.
This unit applies to workers who work with clients affected by alcohol and other drugs.
Online Learning Management System (LMS): opens Monday 29 January 2024 – Friday 22 March 2024.
Mandatory virtual classes from 9.30am – 1:00pm on the 8, 15, 29 February 2024
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for and conduct assessments of AOD clients to determine eligibility, service requirements and referral needs. This includes knowledge of factors affecting assessment for a range of different client groups, including different genders, youth, older people, mandated and voluntary clients, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
This unit applies to people who assess clients with AOD issues using established organisation or jurisdictional AOD assessment tools.
Online LMS: opens Monday 22 April 2024 – Friday 21 June 2024
Mandatory virtual classes 9.30am – 1:00pm on the 2, 9, 16 May 2024
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work collaboratively with clients to establish treatment goals and to develop and evaluate individual treatment plans to meet those goals.
The purpose of the training is to enable participants to develop treatment plans with and for clients with AOD issues on the basis of an existing assessment and within established organisation guidelines.
Online LMS: opens Monday, 15 July 2024 – Friday 6 September 2024.
Mandatory virtual classes 9.30am – 1.00pm on the 25 July & 8 and 22 August 2024.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to confirm, conduct and monitor evidence-based intervention strategies to address alcohol and other drug issues. This unit includes applying standard processes and procedures to effectively manage tasks and contingencies required in the context of the work role.
The purpose of the training is to enable participants to develop the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to prepare clients for interventions and deliver those interventions under supervision within the scope of an established individual treatment plan.
Online LMS: opens Monday 7 October 2024 – Friday 29 November 2024.
Mandatory virtual classes 9.30am – 1:00pm on the 16, 23 October and 6 November 2024.
The AOD Collaborative ECHO (ACECHO) partnership involves VAADA, Turning Point, and Goulburn Valley Health. This dedicated ECHO for Victorian AOD state-funded services aims to enhance the capabilities of AOD workers in addressing substance use issues among their clients. The primary objective of these sessions is to foster a community of AOD workers with varying levels of expertise, united by the shared goal of improving the well-being, and achieving positive outcomes, for individuals with problematic substance use.
Conducted under the guidance of Turning Point, each session commences with a presentation delivered by a Turning Point expert or a related professional, focusing on a specific topic. This is followed by an in-depth case consultation, during which attendees have the opportunity to ask questions or offer recommendations based on a case study presented by one of the participants.
Join Adam Pastor as he navigates the landscape of liver health in individuals grappling with substance use disorders, with a focus on alcohol and opioids. This presentation will provide insights into the latest developments in Hepatitis C, alcohol-related liver disease, screening tests for liver disease complications, and more. Explore the nuanced intersections of substance use and liver health, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, successes, and the journey from A to B to C.
Adam graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2003 and was attracted to training in Addiction Medicine through its mix of pharmacology, impact on human physiology, mental health and public health. He has a particular interest in the interplay between chronic medical conditions and substance use, as well as medications used to assist in the management of alcohol and other substance use disorders. Adam has spent considerable time in the Northern Territory and is a former Director of NT Drug and Alcohol Services and current Deputy Director of Addiction Medicine at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne.
Case presentations by participating healthcare providers are the cornerstone of the ECHO model. Presentations are always followed by an open Q & A discussion of the case and recommendations by the hub team. To submit a case study, click on Go to Form.
The AOD Collaborative ECHO (ACECHO) partnership involves VAADA, Turning Point, and Goulburn Valley Health. This dedicated ECHO for Victorian AOD state-funded services aims to enhance the capabilities of AOD workers in addressing substance use issues among their clients. The primary objective of these sessions is to foster a community of AOD workers with varying levels of expertise, united by the shared goal of improving the well-being, and achieving positive outcomes, for individuals with problematic substance use.
Conducted under the guidance of Turning Point, each session commences with a presentation delivered by a Turning Point expert or a related professional, focusing on a specific topic. This is followed by an in-depth case consultation, during which attendees have the opportunity to ask questions or offer recommendations based on a case study presented by one of the participants.
An essential session for AOD workers, this presentation tackles nitrous oxide use, dependence, and its medical consequences. With a focus on the increasing prevalence, especially among young individuals, the goal is to equip workers with insights into the potential serious effects of nitrous oxide use.
Dr Ferghal Armstrong graduated from the Queen’s University Belfast in 1999. He trained and practised as a GP in Wales, UK, and then emigrated to Australia in 2014. He founded and managed Blackfish Medical Clinic, a GP practice in Koo Wee Rup in 2016. He completed training in Addiction Medicine in 2020 and now works full-time at Turning Point as an Addiction Medicine Specialist.
Case presentations by participating healthcare providers are the cornerstone of the ECHO model. Presentations are always followed by an open Q & A discussion of the case and recommendations by the hub team. To submit a case study, click Go to Form.
The AOD Collaborative ECHO (ACECHO) partnership involves VAADA, Turning Point, and Goulburn Valley Health. This dedicated ECHO for Victorian AOD state-funded services aims to enhance the capabilities of AOD workers in addressing substance use issues among their clients. The primary objective of these sessions is to foster a community of AOD workers with varying levels of expertise, united by the shared goal of improving the well-being, and achieving positive outcomes, for individuals with problematic substance use.
Conducted under the guidance of Turning Point, each session commences with a presentation delivered by a Turning Point expert or a related professional, focusing on a specific topic. This is followed by an in-depth case consultation, during which attendees have the opportunity to ask questions or offer recommendations based on a case study presented by one of the participants.
Embark on exploring the six pillars of lifestyle medicine and their impact on mental health and AOD. Uncover the intricate connections between the feet, fork, fingers, sleep, socialisation, and stress management as we delve into their pivotal roles in recovery and resilience. Join us in understanding how these lifestyle choices can be transformative green shoots, nurturing a path to holistic well-being and sustainable healing.
Dr Ferghal Armstrong graduated from the Queen’s University Belfast in 1999. He trained and practised as a GP in Wales, UK, and then emigrated to Australia in 2014. He founded and managed Blackfish Medical Clinic, a GP practice in Koo Wee Rup in 2016. He completed training in Addiction Medicine in 2020 and now works fulltime at Turning Point as an Addiction Medicine Specialist.
Case presentations by participating healthcare providers are the cornerstone of the ECHO model. Presentations are always followed by an open Q & A discussion of the case and recommendations by the hub team. To submit a case study, click on Go to Form.
The AOD Collaborative ECHO (ACECHO) partnership involves VAADA, Turning Point, and Goulburn Valley Health. This dedicated ECHO for Victorian AOD state-funded services aims to enhance the capabilities of AOD workers in addressing substance use issues among their clients. The primary objective of these sessions is to foster a community of AOD workers with varying levels of expertise, united by the shared goal of improving the well-being, and achieving positive outcomes, for individuals with problematic substance use.
Conducted under the guidance of Turning Point, each session commences with a presentation delivered by a Turning Point expert or a related professional, focusing on a specific topic. This is followed by an in-depth case consultation, during which attendees have the opportunity to ask questions or offer recommendations based on a case study presented by one of the participants.
Hear about the latest in the opioid pharmacotherapy system overseas and at home in Victoria.
Jon Cook is an Addiction Medicine Specialist and has served as the Head of Addiction Medicine at Western Health for six years. With a background in community health and youth AOD services, Jon brings valuable expertise to the intersection of medicine and community well-being.
Case presentations by participating healthcare providers are the cornerstone of the ECHO model. Presentations are always followed by an open Q & A discussion of the case and recommendations by the hub team. To submit a case study, click Go to Form.
This 1-day symposium is for anyone supporting women with substance use issues.
Women’s experiences with substance use and support services are often shaped by distinct factors, such as societal expectations and caregiving roles amongst others. These factors can influence their reasons for using substances, create unique barriers to seeking help, and affect their recovery journey. Additionally, women often encounter systemic barriers that can disadvantage them in accessing treatment and support.
This event aims to deepen your understanding of these specific needs, helping you to provide more effective and responsive support. You will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts, hear from women with lived and living experiences, and participate in an interactive workshop that offers practical strategies for improving your practice and support services.
Key Focus Areas:
👉 Women’s experiences navigating AOD support, services and treatment
👉 Gender-responsive practices and approaches
👉 Integrating research and lived experience
This skill set reflects the skill requirements for support workers providing services to clients with alcohol and other drugs issues. It is the minimum qualification standard for workers in the Victorian AOD sector.
The Department of Health fully funds the AOD Skillset offered under Elevate.
*We may take on students with only one or two units to complete, provided a spot becomes available in any of the units. If you wish to go on the waitlist, email elevate@vaada.org.au with the units you need to complete. Please note it is not a guarantee you will get a place in this course.
Date: Tuesday 22nd August, 2023
10:00AM-12:00PM Online
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish and work within the current context, philosophy and values of the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) sector.
This unit applies to AOD workers with clients affected by alcohol and other drugs.
1-day Workshop (attendance mandatory)
Date: Tuesday 29th August, 2023
Time: 9:00AM – 4:30PM – in person
Address: 26 Jessie St Coburg
Tutorials (optional)
Dates to be confirmed
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for and conduct assessments of alcohol and other drugs (AOD) clients to determine eligibility, service requirements and referral needs. This includes knowledge of factors affecting assessment for a range of different client groups, including different genders, youth, older people, mandated and voluntary clients, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
This unit applies to AOD workers who assess clients using established organisational or jurisdictional AOD assessment tools.
3-day Workshop (attendance mandatory)
Date: Monday 18th – Wednesday 20th September
Time: 9:00AM – 4:30PM in person
Address: 26 Jessie St Coburg
Tutorials (optional)
Online – Dates to be confirmed
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work collaboratively with clients to establish treatment goals and to develop and evaluate individual treatment plans to meet those goals.
This unit applies to workers who develop treatment plans with and for clients with alcohol and other drugs (AOD) issues based on an existing assessment and within established organisation guidelines. The plan’s development may be autonomous or collaborative, depending on the context. Workers may or may not be the person conducting the assessment.
2-day Workshop (attendance mandatory)
Date: Thursday 19th October and Friday 20th October, 2023
Time: 9:00AM – 4:30PM in person
Address: 26 Jessie St Coburg
Tutorials (optional)
Online – Dates to be confirmed
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to confirm, conduct and monitor intervention strategies to address alcohol and other drugs (AOD) issues.
This unit applies to workers who support people with AOD issues within the scope of an established individual treatment plan. Interventions would be ongoing and conducted under the guidance of a supervisor.
2-day Workshop (attendance required)
Date: Wednesday 22nd November and Thursday 23rd November
Time: 9:00AM – 4:30PM in person
Address: 26 Jessie St Coburg
Tutorials (optional)
Online – Dates to be confirmed
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We at VAADA acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung People as the traditional owners of the land on which we reside and pay respect to elders past, present and emerging. We also acknowledge that this land was never ceded.