Complex Support Worker – Psychosocial Disability & AOD (High-Risk Support)

About the Role

Sydney Health & Care Services is seeking an experienced Complex Support Worker to support participants living with severe mental health challenges, episodes of psychosis/paranoia, high-risk suicidality/self-harm history, and behaviours of concern that may include verbal/physical aggression and escalation requiring emergency response.

This role also involves AOD exposure. You must be confident supporting participants who may be actively using substances and/or experiencing cravings or withdrawal, where escalation can include threatening behaviour and safety risks (including concerns around weapons and vulnerability to exploitation).

This is a safety-first and trauma-informed role for workers who can remain calm, set respectful boundaries, and consistently follow behaviour support and escalation procedures.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Deliver 1:1 supports in the community and at home (ADLs, routines, appointments, community access)

Implement Positive Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs) with proactive, preventative and reactive strategies

Use de-escalation skills and low-arousal communication during distress and escalation

Support participants with mental health deterioration (including paranoia/delusions/disorganised thinking) while maintaining safety

Work confidently in environments where substance use may be present, applying harm-minimisation and professional boundaries

Recognise early warning signs, act quickly, and follow escalation pathways (including contacting emergency services when required)

Complete high-quality documentation: case notes, incidents, observations, and handovers

This Role Will Suit You If You Have:

Mandatory

Minimum 2 years’ experience supporting people with complex psychosocial disability/mental health and behaviours of concern

Demonstrated experience working in environments with AOD exposure (including intoxication/withdrawal presentations)

Strong de-escalation capability and the ability to remain calm under pressure

Clear understanding of boundaries, duty of care, and safety planning, including managing risk where threats or weapon-related behaviours may arise

Excellent written communication and confidence completing detailed reports

Compliance requirements:

NDIS Worker Screening Check (or willingness to obtain immediately)

National Police Check

First Aid + CPR (current)

Minimum Cert IV in Disability / Community Services / Mental Health (or equivalent)

Unrestricted Australian work rights

Highly Desirable:

CPI / ProAct / Studio 3 / PMVA (or similar)

Mental Health First Aid

Experience supporting high-risk self-harm/suicidality presentations

Important Note on Safety & Fit

These support environments can be challenging and may involve aggression risk, high-risk mental health episodes, and substance-related escalation.

We’re looking for workers who can maintain professionalism, follow plans exactly, and prioritise safety for everyone involved.