Mental Health Commission

Training for Volunteers

Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors’ Training Program

Are you passionate about supporting people affected by alcohol and other drug (AOD) issues? Our Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors’ Training Program offers a comprehensive pathway for individuals committed to making a difference in this field.

Applications Closed: Open March 2026

Applications for the 2025 Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors’ Training Program have now closed. Please note that applications will only be accepted during the designated application period.

Successful applicants will attend weekly training sessions for 20 weeks while learning counselling skills taught by specialists in the drug and alcohol sector and related fields.

Volunteers are then placed within an AOD agency for approximately 12 months, where they volunteer for a minimum of four hours each week. Experienced counsellors provide ongoing supervision during this period.

We are looking for people who:

  • have a non-judgmental attitude toward people experiencing AOD-related challenges
  • are committed to working with people affected by AOD-related issues
  • possess excellent interpersonal skills
  • have the capability to learn about, and apply, evidence-based practice in the context of the unique needs of diverse people affected by AOD-related problems
  • can commit to both the training and placement components of the program
  • have English literacy and verbal fluency
  • have basic computer literacy.

Please note, people with lived experience of AOD issues may apply two years after resolving their AOD-related challenges.

Follow the below steps to apply for the 2025 Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors’ Training Program.

  1. Before applying, carefully review the 2025 Program Information Sheet to understand the program requirements and expectations.
  2. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including commitment to the training and placement, interpersonal skills, and required literacy levels.
  3. Download and complete the 2025 Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors’ Training Program Application Form accurately and fully.
  4. Submit your completed application via email to AOD.training@mhc.wa.gov.au. Use the following naming convention for your application file and email submission:

First Name Surname - Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors’ Training Program 2025 - Date of Submission (Example: Jane Doe - Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors’ Training Program 2025 -Submitted 22 March 2025)

For any questions, contact AOD.training@mhc.wa.gov.au or (08) 6553 0560.

Page last updated5 May 2025

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