Bachelor Of Community Mental Health, Alcohol And Other Drugs

Policy, Politics and Law AHEBCHCS102

Semester one

This subject examines the Australian government structure and policy cycle in relation to inter-related laws and policies impacting on the delivery of mental health and AOD treatment, care and support.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
a. Contextualise mental health and AOD policies, regulations and laws within the Australian political and health systems
b. Assess the implications of a ‘whole of government’ approach to policy development within the context of reform of mental health treatment, care and support
c. Analyse and evaluate key policies, legislation and review cycles applicable to the mental health and AOD sectors
d. Articulate the impact of privacy legislation on the role of community support workers
e. Critically review the policy and legislative framework for early intervention and prevention

AOD IssuesHEBCHT104

Semester one

This subject is intended to provide students with knowledge of contemporary issues regarding drug use and treatment in Australia with a focus on the AOD sector. Students will become familiar with theories of addiction as well as theories of various treatment strategies.

On successful completion of this subject, students will be able to:
a. Evaluate how values and attitudes influence both our own and the community’s responses to AOD issues.
b. Articulate historical, social, cultural, and political constructions of drug use and how they influence policy.
c. Investigate theories of drug use and addiction, risk and protective factors, and socio-economic impacts for individuals, their families/carers, and the community.
d. Assess psychoactive substances, methods of classification and their effect on individual physiology and behaviour.
e. Critically evaluate concepts of addiction such as intoxication, withdrawal, dependency, tolerance, neuroadaptation, and the addiction cycle.
f. Formulate strategies for strengthening early intervention and prevention approaches to harmful AOD use from an individual and community perspective.

Lifespan DevelopmentHEBCHT101

Semester one

This subject explores the biological, social and psychological facets that shape and individual's growth and wellbeing over the lifespan.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
a. Critically evaluate the theories of human development across the lifespan
b. Synthesise theories of physical, psychosocial, cognitive and emotional development relevant to mental health and AOD practice
c. Assess risk and protective factors of clients across the lifespan with a focus on mental health, and alcohol and other drug issues.

Contexts of the Mental Health Industry AHEBCHCS101

Semester one

This subject is a foundation unit designed to assist students to understand the key influences on the development of the mental health service system. This subject is an integral part of the Degree to ensure students have insight into the systemic influences to the sector.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
a. Critically analyse the history of mental health care and its impact on perceptions of mental health.
b. Critically evaluate the impact of deinstitutionalization, mainstreaming and community-based care in relation to contemporary mental health and AOD services.
c. Critically evaluate dual diagnosis assessment and service provision.
d. Assess factors that influence access to appropriate mental health and AOD services across diverse communities.
e. Critically evaluate how human rights have impacted current models of mental health and AOD treatment, care, and support.

Community DevelopmentHEBCHSI101

Semester two

This subject introduces students to approaches of community development and its application in metropolitan, rural and remote areas of Australia.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Critically analyse various community development models and approaches, specifically considering their application in the context of mental health, alcohol, and other drugs.
b. Evaluate local community resources and networks that support recovery, self-care, and mental wellbeing across different demographics and life stages.
c. Analyse principles of social justice and equity to design community interventions that address systemic barriers and promote the rights and wellbeing of individuals affected by mental health, alcohol, and other drugs issues.
d. Research and analyse community agendas goals, values, risks, priorities and strategies to improve outcomes.
e. Examine the role and effectiveness of non-government organisations (NGOs) in providing support services and advocacy for individuals and communities impacted by mental health, alcohol, and other drug issues.

Working with DiversityHEBCHPD101

Semester two

This subject examines population diversity in its many forms and explore the concept of 'cultural safety' and a holistic person-centred approach as is essential for working with individuals in a community-based setting.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Critically evaluate notions of identity, diversity, and difference with a focus on how notions of race, ethnicity, culture, and gender are developed and sustained through language and social structures.
b. Articulate theories and frameworks of cultural competency and safety, required for working in the public health sector c. Articulate strategies to ensure effective intercultural communication that navigate cultural assumptions about mental health, wellbeing and substance use.
d. Evaluate how assumptions, biases and attitudes to diversity at individual, social and institutional levels impact social inclusion and marginalisation with a focus on First Nations, LGBTIQA+ and CALD communities.

Mental Health Practice AHEBCHT102

Semester two

Australian epidemiology of low prevalence and major mental disorders and co-morbidity is discussed in this subject regarding prioritisation of health intervention/prevention approaches across the health and welfare sector.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
a. Analyse contemporary theories of mental illness and their associated interventions.
b. Evaluate how risks associated mental illness can impact psychological and physical wellbeing as well as life opportunities.
c. Assess access to services and the continuum of care with particular focus on groups with complex needs and diversities.

Industry ProjectHEBCHPD102

Semester two

Students are introduced to and practice a number of key skills that are expected of a Higher Education student entering practicum and the Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs industry: experiential learning, reflective practice, resilience and wellbeing.

On successful completion of this subject students will:
a. Demonstrate an understanding of self-reflection and self-reflective practices.
b. Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of attention and concentration and resilience.
c. Be able to design and plan a project establishing appropriate goals, objectives, milestones and action plans.
d. Be able to prepare an e-portfolio (CV, Cover Letter, and an Expression of Interests.
e. Demonstrate the key skills and preparedness for a job application/interview.

Subjects - Year two

Policy, Politics and Law BHEBCHCS104

Semester one

This subject examines and critically analyse key legislation that informs mental health and AOD practice.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Critically evaluate current policies related to mental health and AOD including their impact on individuals and communities.
b. Assess the strengths and limitations of mental health and AOD policies, in relation to community-based care, and community support workers.
c. Synthesise legal frameworks, national/local policies, and political to identify reform directions for consumers and carers.
d. Advocate for socially just and equitable policies that support programs for people with a mental illness and/or AOD issues.
e. Work with various stakeholders, including government agencies, advocacy groups and community organisation to identify and develop policies that address the service needs for people with Mental Health and/or AOD issues.

AOD Support InterventionsHEBCHSI104

Semester one

This subject introduces the skills necessary for early screening, assessment and community support for individuals, families and carers affected by AOD misuse.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Employ evidence-based practices including industry validated tools in recovery planning for people with high risk and non-prescribed substance use.
b. Employ contemporary intervention techniques demonstrating exemplary interpersonal skills.
c. Evaluate risk and protective factors for people with AOD challenges using biopsychosocial and harm minimisation frameworks.
d. Formulate relapse and recovery strategies.
e. Develop a community support plan for clients with harmful use of alcohol or other drugs.

Mental Health Practice BHEBCHT103

Semester one

The use of formal classification and diagnostic systems in mental health has generated cultural, professional, and social criticism. This subject critically analyses the strengths and weaknesses of a classification/diagnostic based assessment and a strengths and recovery oriented assessment. The stages of crisis and risk management are evaluated as applicable to community-based care.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
a. Critically review the stages of crisis and formulate early intervention and preventative strategies.
b. Assess the complex social, health, and legal risks associated with serious mental health and substance use disorder.
c. Develop a wellness recovery action plan reflecting an individual’s strengths and cultural background.
d. Assess the impact of family, carer and/or support networks in an individual’s recovery.

Structural Counselling ProcessesHEBCHSI103

Semester one

This subject critically evaluates current theories of structural counselling processes, including group work, brief and single session therapy.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Explain and critically appraise engagement, respect and regard as necessary for an effective counselling relationship.
b. Critically examine the key concepts of basic counselling and support techniques that promote competence, resilience and coping strategies.
c. Critically analyse a range of structural counselling processes indicating applicability in different contexts and across the life span.
d. Critically analyse how the counselling process can be utilised to reduce risk factors and enhance protective and preventive strategies.
e. Synthesise the principles of confidentiality and professional boundaries in respect to the counselling relationship content.

Exploring ResearchHEBCHPD103

Semester two

This subject explores the fundamentals of research, both in terms of conducting it and understanding it. An assortment of research techniques are canvassed, with an underlying philosophy that a good researcher is one able to determine and apply the most appropriate combination of techniques to the problem at hand rather than being limited to a small number of preferred methods.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Critically analyse a range of qualitative and quantitative research techniques in suitable for the research question.
b. Integrate Australian Human Ethics Standards and intersectional considerations, (including power and privilege) in research design and review.
c. Critically evaluate research and research literature for its validity, reliability and other limitations.
d. Develop critical thinking and decision making related to research design and execution.
e. Apply research skills and critical thinking to the mental health field, AOD or psychology fields.

Comorbidity and Complex CareHEBCHSI106

Semester two

This subject critically examines the health and welfare implications of comorbidity on the course of illness and explore community support interventions and services for individuals, carers and families.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Discuss the incidence and causal models of comorbidity and types of presentation.
b. Describe and explain the health and welfare implications of mental illness and a co-occurring disorder, outlining the key elements of a community support plan.
c. Critically analyse health, welfare, personal and social risk factors of comorbidity across the lifespan.
d. Critically analyse the range of services for the individual, carers and families with complex needs.
e. Discuss and explain early intervention/prevention pathways for people with a range of comorbid presentations and complex care needs.
f. Describe the methods for developing a coordinated and collaborative community-based support plan for a person with multiple and complex needs.

Contexts of the Mental Health Industry BHEBCHCS103

Semester two

Environmental and social factors impact on the community’s understanding of mental health and mental illness. Public perception can be influenced by media sensationalism and stigma. The subject examines the impact of stigma and media influence on a community and its capacity to accept and understand individual difference, diversity and vulnerability.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Critically evaluate societal views of mental health and their potential impact on wellbeing and life opportunities for people experiencing mental health issues.
b. Critically evaluate evidence-based strategies that educate, or support individuals experiencing mental health issues or disorder or educate or support their carers or supporters.
c. Critically evaluate programs the improve community perceptions about mental illness and strategies that increase resilience to address stigma, discrimination or disadvantage associated with mental illness.
d. Critically evaluate how service personnel and wider community attitudes impact those experiencing mental health and substance use issues or disorder.

Practicum Year 2HEBCHPD104

Semester two

Inclusion of the Practicum in the program of study is designed to offer students the opportunity to develop evidence based professional practice skills and apply coursework and theoretical learning in a supported workplace environment. Students complete one 200hour work placement in a community or government working practicing skills for mental health, alcohol and other drugs or broader community services sector work.

Key skills Year 2
On successful completion of the Year 2 Practicum, you are expected to be able to:
a. Provide evidence-based community support to clients with diverse and complex needs.
b. Exemplify self-awareness, self-care and reflective practice within a professional framework.
c. Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, working effectively with professionals from various fields to provide a holistic client intervention.
d. Critically evaluate their own performance and identify areas of improvement in the context of client care and professional development.

Subjects - Year three

Action Research Project AHEBCHPD106

Semester one

In this subject students continue to examine the importance of research in mental health practice, the philosophical bases of research; and the empowering potential of participatory action approaches to research and evaluation.
On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:

a. Explain the methodology of action research and comment critically on its application within a community health context
b. Identify an area of interest, or an issue or area of professional practice, suitable for an action research project and articulate the problem/question(s) to be investigated
c. Conduct a critical review of the literature pertinent to an identified area of study
d. Formulate an action research proposal
e. Develop an application for ethics approval

Applied CounsellingHEBCHSI105

Semester one

This subject explores and critically compare the application of communication and counselling techniques relevant across the lifespan and for different contexts of community based support.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Critically evaluate the theoretical approaches of a range of contemporary counselling models and evaluate the implications for practice in different contexts and across the lifespan.
b. Compare and contrast different counselling models in relation to a wellness and recovery orientation and the right to self-determination
c. Differentiate between aggressive and assertive response styles in managing conflict within the counselling relationship
d. Compare and contrast theories of self-care in the counselling process
e. Critically reflect on the student’s own conditioned responses to types of diversity

Complex TraumaHEBCHCS105A

Semester one

Students will explore the relationship between complex trauma, mental health, and AOD issues at individual, community and collective levels. This subject provides students with an opportunity to consider complex trauma in the context of community development and engagement, as well as in the context of future planning for the mental health and AOD sector

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this subject you are expected to be able to:
A. Demonstrate an understanding of the phenomenology of complex trauma in youth and others who have suffered repeated and severe exposure of a wide range of traumatic experiences. This includes physical, sexual and emotional abuse, domestic violence as well as war and refugee trauma.
B. Demonstrate an understanding of cumulative trauma experiences associated with certain life events and transitions.
C. Demonstrate an understanding of some theoretical perspectives on neurobiology of attachment, coping and adaption to complex trauma and recovery.
D. Discuss individual, community and cultural differences and its challenges which they pose for psychological theories and practice, including effective treatments of complex trauma and alcohol and other drugs addiction.
E. Analyse, write and develop arguments about implications for trauma specific and trauma-informed research and practice.

Working with Families and CarersHEBCHSI102

Semester one

This subject explores family diversity and methods of assisting the recovery process through practical and active participation. Emphasis is on developing skills of working with and engaging family members through a range of practices and thought.

On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
a. Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of care within the diverse nature and functions of contemporary families and the ways in which family or carer supports can be incorporated into integrated care planning
b. Analyze and discuss the experience of grief, mourning and loss associated with caring for an individual with mental health and/or AOD issues and reflect upon the implications for the professional practice of community support workers
c. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of creativity, nutrition and exercise in the support and wellbeing of carers and families
d. Critically evaluate the principles of recovery, and how a collaborative recovery model can contribute to an individual’s rehabilitation experience
e. Review the role of self-advocacy and empowerment as enablers for families and carers
f. Identify carer driven initiatives that can be accessed by families and carers and demonstrate competence in a range of creative, writing and self-expression support practices
g. Explain the relevance of concepts of social inclusion/consumer participation in policy development and legislative reform with reference to the principles of human rights

Working in Aged CareHEBCHT106

Semester two

This subject builds on the subject Lifespan Development and focuses on the impact of social, psychological/mental and physical changes in the older person along with the key transition tasks and community support required for maximising wellbeing.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
a. Critically discuss key transition points for the older person and reflect on the types of support/intervention required to support adjustment and wellbeing
b. Describe and critically evaluate strategies to promote mental health in older people and reflect on the impact of social isolation and social inclusion
c. Describe the impact of mental health disorders that are likely to present in the older person and critically evaluate bio-psycho-social interventions aimed at maximizing wellbeing
d. Differentiate between depression and dementia and critically evaluate the impact of risk and protective factors
e. Describe how the ageing process of an older person can influence their capacity for independent living and wellbeing

*Elective unit must complete either this unit or HEBCHT105*

Action Research Project BHEBCHPD108

Semester two

This subject focuses on a unique action research designed to explore how to regulate emotional behaviour amongst mental health workers and how to express this when working with individuals, families and communities who face and experience mental health and AOD issues.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
a. Analyse and interpret research findings to draw conclusions, including the identification of implications for professional practice in community health context
b. Apply research findings to improve professional practice and knowledge
c. Critically reflect upon own performance and demonstrate insight into how researchers’ perspective influence the framing, processes and outcomes of research
d. Critically reflect and evaluate on any change in professional practice, attitude and approach for self and/or others as a result of action research project
e. Present research finding to peers and stakeholders

Practicum Year 3HEBCHPD105

Semester two

Inclusion of the Practicum in the program of study is designed to offer students the opportunity for professional development as dual diagnosis practitioners, youth support workers, social welfare workers, residential carers, family support workers, welfare coordinators, refugee liaison officers, psychosocial rehabilitation workers, alcohol and other drugs workers, mental health workers and youth justice workers.

Key skills Year 3
On successful completion of the Year 3 Practicum, you are expected to be able to:
• Critically evaluate practices observed in a community services organization with reference to their theoretical understandings.
• Critically reflect on the implications for their own practice and development of professional identity in the sector from insights gained from observation and provision of community support for clients.
• Demonstrate personal resilience, coping strategies and ability to promote mental health and well-being.
• Demonstrate case management skills and an understanding of the agency specific recovery and/or community service models
• Coordinate multiple service provision and a tailored approach to people with complex needs.

Working with Children and YouthHEBCHT105

Semester two

This subject builds on Lifespan Development and introduce childhood and youth as a unique and fascinating stage of the lifecycle that is examined from a bio-psycho-social perspective.

On successful completion of this subject students will:
a. Demonstrate an understanding of the key transition points from birth to 25 years and reflect upon protective factors that may mediate wellbeing in the shadow of mental illness and other issues
b. Demonstrate an understanding of mental illness, and emotional and behavioural issues for a child/youth and learn practical, innovative and creative support interventions
c. Demonstrate knowledge of methods to assist individuals minimize the influence of their experience of mental illness on their lives and gain skills which build self-esteem, resilience, creativity and better relationships with the self, family and community
d. Demonstrate creative practices that assist young people, and workers to be self-reflective, resilient and emotionally competent. Demonstrate communication skills that are applied across a range of activities – i.e. public speaking, websites, writing, and visual language
e. Demonstrate analytical, assessment and research skills in working with youth and children Content

*Elective unit must complete either this unit or HEBCHT106

Professionalism, Adapting, Developing, ThrivingHEBCHPD107A

Semester two

This subject focuses on the practitioner and their interaction with others and the workplace, with topics including burnout, self-care, and ongoing professional development.
This subject will critically explore current theories of organisational behaviour and culture, workplace trends and the nature of professionalism. Workplace issues and Furthermore, a number of different issues in the workplace will be discussed, which impact professionalism and the ability to be successful in human service organisations

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this subject you are expected to be able to:
A. Demonstrate an understanding of a range of basic concepts of organisational psychology, particularly as they apply to human service organisations
B. Appreciate the antecedents to burnout and strategies for avoiding it, as well as the self-care mechanisms for dealing with stress, staleness and burnout
C. Be conversant with a range of other professional functions/roles/practitioners they are likely to encounter
D. Be prepared to optimally adapt to the differences between being a community worker in metropolitan, rural and remote settings.
E. Demonstrate an understanding of concepts such as bio-psycho-social, wellness continuum and holistic care as they apply to community-based roles
F. Recognise the need for and chart potential adaptable pathways for ongoing professional-development

Admission requirements

Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band less than 5.5. Written task to be undertaken - International Admissions Office will arrange written task at time of application. Applicants to be 18 at time of Enrolment, an Australian Year 12 (VCE or equivalent) or international equivalent qualification

Course pathways

Nationally recognised training	Bachelor Of Community Mental Health, Alcohol And Other Drugs
Possible job outcome	mental health worker dual diagnosis practitioner welfare coordinator psychosocial rehabilitation worker

Fees

Indicative total course cost $67,248 plus annual Student Services fees. Total course cost is indicative based upon the 2025 tuition fees. Any increase in fees for subsequent years is not included in this value. Indicative annual tuition fee of $22,416 for 2025. Student Services fees have been waived in 2025 for international students. Indicative fees are based upon a student enrolling in 100% full time study load and does not reflect if subjects are repeated or advanced standing is granted.

Build a broad skill set to work across mental health, alcohol and drug dependence support services

Policy, Politics and Law AHEBCHCS102

AOD IssuesHEBCHT104

Lifespan DevelopmentHEBCHT101

Contexts of the Mental Health Industry AHEBCHCS101

Community DevelopmentHEBCHSI101

Working with DiversityHEBCHPD101

Mental Health Practice AHEBCHT102

Industry ProjectHEBCHPD102

Policy, Politics and Law BHEBCHCS104

AOD Support InterventionsHEBCHSI104

Mental Health Practice BHEBCHT103

Structural Counselling ProcessesHEBCHSI103

Exploring ResearchHEBCHPD103

Comorbidity and Complex CareHEBCHSI106

Contexts of the Mental Health Industry BHEBCHCS103

Practicum Year 2HEBCHPD104

Action Research Project AHEBCHPD106

Applied CounsellingHEBCHSI105

Complex TraumaHEBCHCS105A

Working with Families and CarersHEBCHSI102

Working in Aged CareHEBCHT106

Action Research Project BHEBCHPD108

Practicum Year 3HEBCHPD105

Working with Children and YouthHEBCHT105

Professionalism, Adapting, Developing, ThrivingHEBCHPD107A