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Career pathway

Drug And Alcohol Counsellor

ANZSCO 272112

Employed

2,500

Part-time share

42%

Female share

66%

Median age

45 yrs

Source: Jobs and Skills Australia · ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

Salary and some workforce figures are suppressed for this occupation because Jobs and Skills Australia / the ABS do not publish estimates for small populations (typically fewer than 50 employed people) or because the figures have been perturbed for privacy. They are shown as unavailable rather than zero.

About this career

Drug and Alcohol Counsellors provide support and treatment for people with drug and alcohol dependency problems, develop strategies which assist them to set goals and affect and maintain change, and provide community education. They may work in call centres.

What they typically do

  • Assesses client needs in relation to treatment for drug and alcohol abuse.
  • Conducts counselling interviews with individuals, couples and family groups.
  • Assists people in the understanding and adjustment of attitudes, expectations and behaviour.
  • Presents alternative approaches and discusses potential for attitude and behavioural change.
  • Consults with clients to develop rehabilitation plans taking account of vocational and social needs.
  • May work in a call centre.

States and territories

Share of workers by location

VIC
34.1%
NSW
22.2%
QLD
16%
WA
14.1%
SA
5.4%
NT
3.1%
TAS
2.8%
ACT
2.4%

Qualification pathways

These accredited qualifications can lead to a career as a Drug And Alcohol Counsellor.