R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Psychosocial Factors Outdo Employment Conditions in Predicting Job Satisfaction and Turnover Intentions for AOD Nurses and Counsellors

Alcohol and other drugs (AOD) work is rewarding and demanding, creating challenges for workforce sustainability. This study examined two key occupational groups within the AOD workforce: nurses and counsellors. Cross-sectional data from an Australian online survey of the AOD workforce was analysed to identify the socio-demographic and organisational factors that predicted job satisfaction and turnover intentions. Around half of nurses and counsellors were satisfied with their jobs, with the majority satisfied with the AOD sector. For both groups, job and sector satisfaction were positively associated with feeling respected and supported and working in an environment open to change. Satisfaction was the strongest predictor of job and sector turnover intentions for both groups. This study suggests that AOD nurses’ and counsellors’ job satisfaction and retention would be improved with more opportunities to explore innovation, and a great focus on workplace cultures of respect and support.