AOD Support Worker – Sobering Up Unit 

Towards Independence Sobering Up Unit, Adelaide  

Casual | 24/7 rotating roster 

Why this role matters 

The Sobering Up Unit is the largest service of its kind in Australia, supporting up to 30 participants at a time as they safely recover from the immediate effects of alcohol and other drugs. Many of the people we support are experiencing addiction,homelessness, mental health issues, physical health issues and the impacts of trauma. Your role as an AOD Support Worker is essential in providing safety, stability and compassionate monitoring during a vulnerable period in a person’s life. 

Every shift you work directly contributes to a safer, more dignified experience for people who often have nowhere else to go. Your calm presence, empathy and professionalism help participants feel seen, supported and safe. 

About the role 

As an AOD Support Worker, you will work as part of a semi‑autonomous team to assess, monitor and support adults who are intoxicated or experiencing withdrawal. You will provide consistent, trauma‑informed care from presentation through to discharge, ensuring safety, dignity and adherence to site procedures and TSA policies. 

This is a casual position within the Sobering Up Unit, operating on a 24‑hour roster. Shifts will be allocated based on business needs and some night shift coverage is expected. Shift times include:  

• Day shift: 7am – 3pm  

• Afternoon shift: 3pm – 11pm 

• Night shift: 11pm – 7am 

How you will make an impact 

• Monitor and assess participants who are intoxicated or withdrawing, always ensuring safety 

• Provide calm, empathic and professional support to adults with complex needs 

• Respond to challenging or high‑risk situations using de‑escalation and trauma‑informed approaches 

• Maintain accurate documentation, logs and incident reports 

• Work collaboratively with senior workers, team members and external agencies 

• Support participants with basic needs, engagement and safe discharge planning 

• Uphold TSA values and contribute to a positive, respectful team culture 

What you will bring 

• Certificate IV in Community Services (preferably AOD) or equivalent 

• Experience supporting people with AOD concerns, homelessness or complex needs 

• Ability to work confidently within a 24/7 roster, including night shifts 

• Strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure 

• Understanding of trauma‑informed practice and harm minimisation principles 

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team 

• Current SA Drivers Licence 

• Working with Children (or willingness to apply)  

• Current Accredited Comprehensive First Aid and CPR certificate (or willingness to obtain) 

What We Offer 

• Salary packaging benefits (up to $15,900 tax free) and Entertainment Benefit ($2,650 tax free) 

• Employee Assistance Program – confidential counselling service 

• Financial, retail and lifestyle discounts 

• Discounted health and fitness programs through Fitness Passport 

• A supportive, inclusive culture with passionate and dedicated team members 

How to apply 

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. 

Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured.  

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration