Key messages
- Catchment-based intake services are the entry point for alcohol and other drug treatment in Victoria.
- Providers use standardised tools and clinical judgement to support people accessing treatment services.
- Intake and assessment tools are used to determine a person’s needs and appropriate treatment pathways.
Intake and assessment
People seeking alcohol and other drug treatment are triaged by catchment-based intake services. A list of all catchments in Victoria can be found at catchment-based intake .
At the assessment stage, an AOD practitioner will work collaboratively with the person to understand their needs and create a care plan together. This includes:
- harms and other risks associated with the person's substance use and broader life issues
- people who may need immediate support or crisis response
- the type of treatment they might be interested in
- a baseline measure to assess future outcomes
Treatment pathways
Every person has their own treatment needs and preferences. Once a person has engaged with a service, they do not need to return through catchment-based intake. They can be guided to the service they are seeking. In most cases, the existing treatment provider can:
- facilitate further treatment
- update the treatment plan
- inform the catchment-based intake service of the individual’s allocation to a new course of treatment or episode of care
If a significant change in need or life complexity occurs, people may be referred for re-assessment.
Resources for service providers
The department endorses key tools for clinicians to use during intake and assessment. Turning provide an online learning program to familiarise AOD clinicians with key tools. Clinicians can also refer to the Clinician's guide.
Clinicians can complete optional modules to learn more about a person’s experiences, strengths and needs. All optional modules are available under downloads.
Note: optional module 12 is required for people referred via ‘diversion’ from courts or court support programs. This includes the Court Integrated Services Program (CISP).
The intake tool is used to identify a person's level of risk and need and determine appropriate treatment pathways. The intake tool can be used in a range of delivery settings, including over the phone.
Comprehensive assessment tool
The comprehensive assessment tool supports treatment providers to understand a person’s circumstances and history. A self-completion form is filled out alongside this and other sources of information. This helps to plan quality, holistic care in collaboration with the person seeking support.
Note: this assessment tool is not developmentally appropriate for people under 21 years old. It should only be used for record keeping where a young person is engaged and assessed over time.
Initial care planning
Practitioners who provide the comprehensive assessment will also develop an initial care plan. This is informed by:
- information collected at intake and assessment
- the individual’s identified treatment needs and preferences
The completed tools and care plan form part of a package of referral information. This is then provided to services engaged for treatment.
- Optional module 1 - Physical examinationOptional module 2 - ABI referral tool for neuropsychology assessmentOptional module 3 - Mental healthOptional module 4 - PsycheckOptional module 5 - Quality of lifeOptional module 6 - GamblingOptional module 7 - GoalsOptional module 8 - assessment of recovery capitalOptional module 9 - StrengthsOptional module 11 - Impact of use on family memberOptional module 12 - Forensic
Reviewed 02 April 2025