Overnight/Day Support Staff at Addiction Retreat

Southern Highlands Addiction Retreat is currently seeking a part-time/casual Overnight/Day Support Worker to join the team at our facility in Canyonleigh, New South Wales. As a leading provider of addiction recovery services, we are committed to transforming lives and leading change for those affected by addiction. Requires overnight stays and weekend work onsite. Private accommodation provided.

About Us:

Nestled on a scenic 100 acre property, Southern Highlands Addiction Retreat offers a tranquil environment for individuals seeking recovery from addiction. Led by an experienced team of experts, our evidence-based program delivers effective treatment for substance and behavioural addictions along with co-occurring health conditions, such as anxiety, depression and trauma. Our holistic approach addresses mental, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being, providing a supportive space for healing and personal growth.

The Role:

The Support Worker is responsible for providing a supportive and safe environment for retreat guests seeking withdrawal and/or respite from the use of alcohol and/or other drugs within the accommodation setting. This position involves day and overnight shifts that include both active (awake) and passive (sleep) components.

Shift Breakdown:

Overnight =  4.30pm - 8.30am

Day Shift = 8.30am - 4.30pm

Other shifts also available.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide direct practical support to guests overnight to ensure they feel safe and supported, including ad hoc psychosocial support.
• Actively engage with guests and develop trusting and professional relationships.
• When required, assist guests in their evening routine and offer support in the event of distress overnight.
• Provide regular monitoring and observations of guests including close liaison with the Medical Director and Lead Therapist, monitoring withdrawal symptoms and documentation of progress.
• Participate and facilitate the handover process, ensuring thorough and accurate documentation is recorded and communicated to the team.
• Dispense prescribed medication and supervise self-administration of medication.

Essential Criteria:

• Demonstrated experience working in the AOD or mental health/care sector.
• Understanding of and/or experience with supporting persons with AOD needs, mental health needs and/or co-existing support needs.
• Understanding and/or experience with the trauma-informed model of care.
• Strong personal resilience, work ethic and integrity.
• Ability to adapt communication style to meet the needs of a diverse range of people, and identify changing needs within a group.
• Comprehensive understanding of the importance of personal and professional boundaries, ethical behaviour, policies, and procedures.

Desirable Criteria:

• Minimum of a Certificate III in Mental Health, Community Services, mental health, skill set (CHCSS00093) in Alcohol & Other Drugs (AOD) or other approved related fields.
• Nursing, Paramedic or other related field qualification (or working towards) & experience highly regarded.
• Demonstrated ability to provide person-centred holistic care for clients presenting with a broad range of substance use and psychosocial needs.
• Previous experience in a similar role, such as security, caretaking, or overnight supervision, is preferred but not essential.
• Experience in working with Veterans & NDIS participants is also helpful.

What We Offer:

• Competitive hourly rate, accommodation and meals. Penalty rates on weekends and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Make a positive impact on the lives of individuals in recovery.
• Access to serene surroundings and unique work environment.

How to Apply:

Applications will be reviewed on submission. So if you fit the above criteria and passionate about making a positive impact to those in recovery, APPLY NOW by submitting a current resume and cover letter addressing the above listed criteria.

If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact with the subject line Overnight Support.

Southern Highlands Addiction Retreat is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those with diverse backgrounds and identities. Join us in providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals on their journey to recovery.