‘Workforce Development’ (WFD) is a multi-faceted, systemic approach to building the capacity and sustainability of the alcohol and other drug (AOD) workforce. WFD offers a comprehensive way of thinking about and responding to the complex interplay of issues that affect the AOD workforce.
A workforce development approach means moving the focus from individual workers to organisations and systems. It shifts the emphasis from skills deficit to systems enhancement.
In its efforts to improve the quality and take-up of AOD education and training, NCETA has been promoting Workforce Development principles and practices for some years, and has developed considerable expertise in the area. The WFD approach is now moving into the Australian AOD mainstream, with four states funding WFD units and/or convening high level WFD Committees.
A new and innovative Canadian workforce development website launched in April 2007 -the Canadian Network of Substance Abuse and Allied Professionals www.cnsaap.ca - draws on and acknowledges NCETA's workforce development research and resources.
NCETA will continue to provide national leadership and scholarship to foster development in this promising field.
