CHC40408 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs

To meet the requirement of the Minimum Qualification Strategy this course is designed to provide candidates with the skills, knowledge and understanding to work autonomously at a day to day level in AOD withdrawal, youth, counselling, accommodation, outreach or residential services.

Pre-requisites
Applicants need to be currently employed or undertaking significant volunteering in the area of Health and Community Services is required.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Candidates may apply for recognition of prior learning for one or more units. Please see the student handbook for more information. Please be aware that evidence submitted for RPL cannot be returned. Applicants are encouraged to keep copies of their whole portfolio.

Course Description
Candidates will gain understanding, skills and knowledge of assessments and interventions used while working with clients who have substance use issues.

Assessment Strategies include:
Case scenarios & studies, short answer tests & essays, simulations, quizzes, referral & treatment planning exercises, interviews & scripted role plays.

First Aid:
Participants are required to provide Odyssey Institute with a copy of their current First Aid Certificate (Level 1 HLTFA301B Apply First Aid) or above.

The first aid component must be gained externally to Odyssey Institute at the participants own cost.

Please note: participants are charged only for the units they undertake with Odyssey Institute and therefore are not charged for First Aid in course fees.

A written case must be put forward to the Senior trainer for consideration, showing justification for not supplying a First Aid certificate.

Essential skills and knowledge in this qualification include:-

  • Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Bandaging
  • Managing Toxic Substances
  • Managing Bleeding
  • Managing Broken bones
  • Managing Consciousness
  • Managing Choking and Knowledge of Coma Positions


Credit Transfer
Direct credit transfers for units a participant has gained previous competency in will be recognised. Please see our student handbook for further information on this process.


Topics include:

  • Historical perspectives and the AOD Sector
  • Drug Identification and Pharmacology
  • Assessment, Screening and Treatment Planning
  • Harm reduction and Relapse prevention
  • Working with Intoxicated clients
  • Facilitating co-operative behaviour
  • Statutory requirements for AOD workers and agencies across states
  • Workplace policy and OH&S
  • Diverse Clients - Gender, Sexuality and CALD
  • Orientation to MH


    • Expected study hours per week: 6-8


    Course Duration: 13 Months


    Questions about online study?
    Take a look at our frequently asked questions page.


    Application Dates:

      Accepting applications now!


    Cost: $2275.00

    Apply for this course now.
    Apply here.






    Tell a friend about this course.

    Interested in upgrading your existing AOD qualifications? Apply for the Upgrade!

    Course Structure:

    Please note: A total of 16 units must be completed in this qualification.

    Compulsory Units:

    • CHCAOD402A - Work effectively in the alcohol and other drug sector
    • CHCAOD408A - Assess the needs of clients with alcohol and/or other drugs issues
    • CHCAOD411A - Provide intervention for people with alcohol and other drug issues
    • CHCCM404A - Undertake case management for client with complex needs
    • CHCCOM403A - Use targeted communication skills to build relationships
    • CHCCS400A - Work within a relevant legal and ethical framework
    • CHCOHS312A - Follow safety procedures for direct care work

    First Aid to be obtained from external provider:

    • HLTFA301B or HLTFA402B - Apply first aid or Apply advanced first aid (Note pre-requisite HLTFA301B)

    Pick one of the following:

    • CHCCS403B - Provide brief intervention
    • CHCAOD409D - Provide alcohol and/or other drug withdrawal services
    • CHCAOD407D - Provide needle exchange services

    Elective Units:

    Pick seven of the following:

    • CHCMH401A - Work effectively in mental health settings
    • CHCMH408B - Provide interventions to meet the needs of consumers with mental health and AOD issues
    • CHCAOD406D - Work with clients who are intoxicated
    • HLTHIR403B - Work effectively with culturally diverse clients and co-workers
    • CHCCS401B - Facilitate responsible behaviour
    • CHCCS422A - Respond holistically to client issues and refer appropriately
    • CHCCS504A - Provide services to clients with complex needs
    • CHCAD401D - Advocate for clients
    • CHCCS403B - Provide brief intervention
    • CHCAOD409D - Provide alcohol and/or other drug withdrawal services
    • CHCAOD407D - Provide needle exchange services

    Back to courses