Provider: AOD Counselling

Professional Development Training – Suicide Prevention in the AOD Sector 

Register Now 

Through an exploration of the unique intersection between suicide risk and substance use, this workshop will equip participants with practical, evidence-informed approaches to identify risk, engage in meaningful conversations, and strengthen suicide prevention practice within AOD settings.

workshop objectives: 

Dom Pezzutto has worked across suicide prevention, mental health and AOD services in frontline, leadership and education roles. She has contributed to suicide prevention service reform, led workforce development initiatives supporting suicide prevention services across Australia, and has experience spanning crisis intervention, suicide bereavement support, service design, policy development and sector education. Drawing on experience across multiple service settings, Dom brings a unique perspective on the intersection of suicide prevention and AOD practice, helping workers recognise how culture, context, connection and everyday interactions can act as powerful suicide prevention strategies, even when suicide prevention is not the primary focus of the work.

Who should attend? Victorian Department Health funded AOD workers new to their role and/or those looking to refresh and update existing knowledge.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This workshop is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role.

Date: Monday November 9, 2026
Time: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Venue: Turning Point, Level 1, Training Rooms – 110 Church St, Richmond 3121

Cost: Free (This workshop is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation.)
NB: If you register and do not attend, your organisation/manager will receive a fee
Register Now 
Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au

MARAM In Practice: Family Violence in AOD Work

This workshop is now full – you can join the waitlist here 

MARAM In Practice: Family Violence in AOD Work, presented by Bella Tambakau & Sheridon Byrne 

Date: Thursday 26th November 2026
Time: 9:30am – 3:30pm
Venue: Online
Cost: Free
Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au
IMPORTANT NOTE: this training is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role.

This workshop is designed for Victorian AOD workers, ideally who have completed foundational MARAM training although not necessary. The workshop aims to enhance practical understanding and application of the MARAM framework and applying it to day-to-day work with clients. 

Participants will explore how to integrate MARAM principles into real-world scenarios through the use of case studies and facilitated breakout room discussions. These sessions will provide opportunities to apply knowledge, share insights, and learn from peers across the sector. 

The workshop will focus on strategies to keep victim-survivors safe, reduce the risk of collusion with people using family violence, and strengthen confidence in responding to complex situations. 

Bella Tambakau is a Specialist Family Violence Advisor in Alcohol and Other Drugs, auspice to Turning Point. Bella brings forth her extensive experience in the family violence sector in crisis and direct response to her current role, where she supports AOD services to build family violence capacity and support the alignment to the MARAM framework.

Sheridon Byrneis a Trainer within the workforce development team, with over two decades of experience in the family violence sector. Her career spans a wide range of roles, including work in women’s refuges, family violence crisis counselling, program coordination, and project leadership. Sheridon has delivered significant training and capacity-building initiatives across multiple sectors, particularly at the intersection of family violence, alcohol and other drugs, and mental health. Her work includes private consultation and the design of tailored training programs that support sustainable, effective practice. Sheridon is deeply committed to fostering systemic change and empowering practitioners to engage in family violence work with confidence and resilience.

Who should attend? This workshop is designed for Victorian AOD workers, ideally who have completed foundational MARAM training although not necessary. The workshop aims to enhance practical understanding and application of the MARAM framework and applying it to day-to-day work with clients. 

NOTE: This online training is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role, please register with your WORK email, your ticket will be cancelled if you do not use your work email, thank you.

Register Here!

Cancellation policy: This training is free, however if your circumstances change please log into your Eventbrite account and cancel your registration or alternatively email tp@turningpoint.org.au to advise of your inability to complete.

Understanding Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Date: Thursday 11 March 2027

Time: 9:30am – 1:00pm

Location: Online

Description:

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is one of the key practice skills you need for effective alcohol and other drug treatment. This interactive workshop offers an engaging and practical introduction to CBT and makes CBT meaningful in day to day practice. Improve your understanding of CBT theory and practice, learn a comprehensive CBT framework, and develop skills in tailoring strategies and treatment for different client presentations.

Key learning outcomes:

  • Gain core knowledge and clinical skills in different types of behavioural and cognitive therapies
  • Understand the CBT approach to assessment, formulation, brief interventions and treatment planning
  • Apply knowledge and practice of key alcohol and other drug specific CBT interventions

Eligibility Criteria

This training has been funded for workers employed in a Victorian State-funded Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) service including those under the AOD Traineeship Program.

Who is not eligible?

Workers from other community sectors such as Family Violence, Homelessness and Mental Health and AOD workers outside of Victoria.

Terms & Conditions

Please ensure you have clearance from your line manager to attend. If you cannot attend, cancel your registration and make your spot available to someone else on the waitlist.

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for AOD workers

This workshop is now full!

Date: 2 Day Workshop – Monday 3rd & Tuesday 4th August 2026 (AEST)
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Location: Turning Point, 110 Church St, Richmond 3121, Level 1, Training Room Two
Cost: Free
Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au

Register Here

IMPORTANT NOTE: This workshop is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation.

Curious about Motivational Interviewing (MI) or looking to build your confidence in having conversations about change? This practical, hands-on workshop is designed especially for those working in Department of Health funded AOD positions who want to learn (or re-learn) how MI can make everyday client interactions more effective and meaningful.

Motivational Interviewing is a simple yet powerful approach that helps people find their own reasons for making positive changes — without pressure or persuasion. It’s about working with clients, not on them, and creating space for open, respectful conversations about change.

Across two days, you’ll have the chance to:

  • Learn what MI is and how it supports real-world AOD work
  • Experience the “spirit” of MI — collaboration, acceptance, and compassion
  • Practice using questions, reflections, and summaries to keep conversations flowing
  • Explore ways to respond when clients feel unsure or stuck
  • Build skills you can take straight back into your day-to-day work

Lauren Zelunka has over 10 years of experience in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector, with the past five years focused primarily on AOD education and training. She is passionate about equipping professionals with the skills and confidence to use Motivational Interviewing effectively in their work. Lauren is currently involved with the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers Oceania (MINTO) as a Friend of MINTO and is working toward becoming a registered member in the coming years.

Sheridon Byrne is an Education and Training Officer within the workforce development team, with over two decades of experience in capacity building across family violence and AOD.  Her work focuses on strengthening practitioner confidence and capability in having effective, respectful conversations about change. Her work includes private consultation and the design of tailored training programs that support sustainable skill development. Sheridon is deeply committed to fostering systemic change and supporting practitioners to use MI with clarity, confidence, and compassion in their day‑to‑day AOD work.

Who should attend? Victorian Department Health funded AOD workers new to their role and/or those looking to refresh and update existing knowledge.

NOTE: This online training is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role, please register with your WORK email, your ticket will be cancelled if you do not use your work email, thank you.

Cancellation policy: This workshop is a free event, however if your circumstances change, please log into your Eventbrite account and cancel your registration or alternatively email tp@turningpoint.org.au no later than 7 days prior to advice of your inability to attend.

ATTENTION: places are limited in these free workshops – If you register and do not attend your organisation will receive a fee.

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for AOD workers

This event is now full.

Date: 2 Day Workshop – Monday 22nd & Tuesday 23rd June 2026 (AEST)
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Location: Turning Point, 110 Church St, Richmond 3121, Level 1, Training Room Two
Cost: Free
Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au

IMPORTANT NOTE: This workshop is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation.

Curious about Motivational Interviewing (MI) or looking to build your confidence in having conversations about change? This practical, hands-on workshop is designed especially for those working in Department of Health funded AOD positions who want to learn (or re-learn) how MI can make everyday client interactions more effective and meaningful.

Motivational Interviewing is a simple yet powerful approach that helps people find their own reasons for making positive changes — without pressure or persuasion. It’s about working with clients, not on them, and creating space for open, respectful conversations about change.

Across two days, you’ll have the chance to:

  • Learn what MI is and how it supports real-world AOD work
  • Experience the “spirit” of MI — collaboration, acceptance, and compassion
  • Practice using questions, reflections, and summaries to keep conversations flowing
  • Explore ways to respond when clients feel unsure or stuck
  • Build skills you can take straight back into your day-to-day work

Lauren Zelunka has over 10 years of experience in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector, with the past five years focused primarily on AOD education and training. She is passionate about equipping professionals with the skills and confidence to use Motivational Interviewing effectively in their work. Lauren is currently involved with the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers Oceania (MINTO) as a Friend of MINTO and is working toward becoming a registered member in the coming years.

Sheridon Byrne is an Education and Training Officer within the workforce development team, with over two decades of experience in capacity building across family violence and AOD.  Her work focuses on strengthening practitioner confidence and capability in having effective, respectful conversations about change. Her work includes private consultation and the design of tailored training programs that support sustainable skill development. Sheridon is deeply committed to fostering systemic change and supporting practitioners to use MI with clarity, confidence, and compassion in their day‑to‑day AOD work.

Who should attend? Victorian Department Health funded AOD workers new to their role and/or those looking to refresh and update existing knowledge.

NOTE: This online training is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role, please register with your WORK email, your ticket will be cancelled if you do not use your work email, thank you.

Cancellation policy: This workshop is a free event, however if your circumstances change, please log into your Eventbrite account and cancel your registration or alternatively email tp@turningpoint.org.au no later than 7 days prior to advice of your inability to attend.

ATTENTION: places are limited in these free workshops – If you register and do not attend your organisation will receive a fee.

MARAM In Practice: Family Violence in AOD Work

Click here to register

MARAM In Practice: Family Violence in AOD Work, presented by Bella Tambakau & Sheridon Byrne 

Date: Thursday 16th April 2026
Time: 9:30am – 3:30pm
Venue: Online
Cost: Free
Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au
IMPORTANT NOTE: this training is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role.

This workshop is designed for Victorian AOD workers, ideally who have completed foundational MARAM training although not necessary. The workshop aims to enhance practical understanding and application of the MARAM framework and applying it to day-to-day work with clients. 

Participants will explore how to integrate MARAM principles into real-world scenarios through the use of case studies and facilitated breakout room discussions. These sessions will provide opportunities to apply knowledge, share insights, and learn from peers across the sector. 

The workshop will focus on strategies to keep victim-survivors safe, reduce the risk of collusion with people using family violence, and strengthen confidence in responding to complex situations. 

Bella Tambakau is a Specialist Family Violence Advisor in Alcohol and Other Drugs, auspice to Turning Point. Bella brings forth her extensive experience in the family violence sector in crisis and direct response to her current role, where she supports AOD services to build family violence capacity and support the alignment to the MARAM framework. 

Sheridon Byrne is a Trainer within the workforce development team, with over two decades of experience in the family violence sector. Her career spans a wide range of roles, including work in women’s refuges, family violence crisis counselling, program coordination, and project leadership. Sheridon has delivered significant training and capacity-building initiatives across multiple sectors, particularly at the intersection of family violence, alcohol and other drugs, and mental health. Her work includes private consultation and the design of tailored training programs that support sustainable, effective practice. Sheridon is deeply committed to fostering systemic change and empowering practitioners to engage in family violence work with confidence and resilience. 

Who should attend? This workshop is designed for Victorian AOD workers, ideally who have completed foundational MARAM training although not necessary. The workshop aims to enhance practical understanding and application of the MARAM framework and applying it to day-to-day work with clients. 

NOTE: This online training is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role, please register with your WORK email, your ticket will be cancelled if you do not use your work email, thank you.

Cancellation policy: This training is free, however if your circumstances change please log into your Eventbrite account and cancel your registration or alternatively email tp@turningpoint.org.au to advise of your inability to complete.

Alcohol and Other Drugs Skill Set 2026 (closed)

Expressions of interests are now closed.

Alcohol and Other Drugs Skill Set 2026

Expression of Interest (EOI) only for all four units of competency of the AOD Skill Set.

Turning Point (RTO 6948) has been contracted by the Department of Health (DH) Victoria to deliver competency training and assessment opportunities to the Victorian Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) workforce.

This training is targeted at employees currently in the AOD sector and employed in DH funded AOD Services. Turning Point staff delivering the AOD competencies have both AOD experience and meet the training and assessment requirements as outlined in the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF).

Eligibility: To be eligible for this training you must work in a publicly funded AOD service in a funded AOD role within Victoria. You must also be an Australian Citizen/Permanent Resident or New Zealand Citizen.

Cost: There is no cost to complete these units of competency if you meet the selection criteria.

Application process: This is an expression of interest only and not an enrolment. You must be available to attend all mandatory virtual classes advertised for all units of competency. You will be notified via email if you have been successful in securing a place and you will be required to accept your offer by a due date, as demand for this skill set is high and there are limited places.

Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au 

The Brain Workshop (online)

*To enrol, change ‘Enrol Now’ to ‘I’m Going’. Check if you’ve enrolled correctly under ‘My Courses’

Date: Thursday, 16 April 2026 9:30AM – 4:30PM

Location: Online

Description:

Alcohol and other drugs can affect the brain in both consistent and idiosyncratic ways. Up to 70% of people in alcohol and other drug treatment have significant temporary or long term cognitive impairment related to drug use, lifestyle or other factors.

In this workshop, learn about how different parts of the brain can be affected by drug use and how this may impact functioning. You will gain a thorough understanding of how the brain works, the functional impact of drugs and the effects on treatment.

Learning outcomes:

  • Understand how alcohol and other drugs affect the brain in the short and longer term
  • Gain skills in assessment of functional impairment and daily functioning
  • Adapt treatment to improve outcomes for clients who have cognitive impairments

Suitable for new, experienced and advanced practitioners and workers in low threshold and clinical settings.

Eligibility Criteria

This training has been funded for workers employed in a Victorian State-funded Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) service.

Who is not eligible?

Students on placement or internships, workers from other community sectors such as Family Violence, Homelessness and Mental Health and AOD workers outside of Victoria.

Terms & Conditions

No shows will be charged a $50 cancellation fee. If you cannot attend, cancel your registration and make your spot available to someone else on the waitlist.

Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Skill Set

We are at capacity and are no longer accepting registrations.

CHCAOD009 Develop and review individual alcohol and other drug treatment plans (2 February 2026 – 27 March 2026)

Turning Point (RTO 6948) has been contracted by the Department of Health (DH) Victoria to provide competency learning and assessment opportunities to the Victorian AOD workforce.

Eligibility: To enrol in a unit of competency you must work in a publicly funded organisation in the Victorian Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector and be an Australian Citizen/Permanent Residence or New Zealand Citizen.

Cost: There is no cost to complete this unit of competency if you meet the selection criteria.

Details
This is only for the unit of competency CHCAOD009 Develop and review individual alcohol and other drug treatment plans
Delivery: Online and virtual classes.

Online learning and assessment will commence 2 February 2026 and will conclude 27 March 2026.

In addition, you must be available to attend the following online virtual classes:

  • Wednesday 11 February 2026, 9:30AM – 1:00PM
  • Wednesday 25 February 2026, 9:30AM – 1:00PM
  • Wednesday 4 March 2026, 9.30 – 1:00PM

Application process:
This is an expression of interest only and not an enrolment. You must be available to attend all virtual classes advertised.
If we can offer you a place, you will receive an email notification and must confirm your acceptance by the specified deadline, as places are limited and demand is high.

Enrolment to Elevate and submitting your registration does not guarantee enrolment into the unit of competency.

Contact Student Administration – tp@turningpoint.org.au if you have any questions.

Graduate Program of Addictive Behaviours (Semester 2 enrolments open)

Ready to take the next step in your career? Find out more about the Graduate Program of Addictive Behaviours at Monash University!

Applications for Semester 2 2026 are now open. Semester 2 begins on 27 July 2026.

By enrolling in one of our courses, you will develop the specialist knowledge and professional skills to support individuals and communities impacted by addiction.

  • Graduate Certificate of Addictive Behaviours (M4018): 1 year part-time
  • Graduate Diploma of Addictive Behaviours (M5022): 2 years part-time
  • Master of Addictive Behaviours (M6014): 2–3 years part-time

Each of these online postgraduate courses (with part-time study) builds on units offered in the previous qualification and provides pathways for further study and postgraduate research opportunities in addiction.

Why join?

✔️ Advance your career.

✔️ Learn from leading experts and real-world practitioners.

✔️ Gain a postgraduate qualification from a Group of Eight University, ranked in the top 40 globally.

✔️ Make a measurable impact on people’s lives.

Find out more

Enrol now

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