This Master of Philosophy (MPhil) project investigates the impacts of cultural load on the alcohol and other drug (AOD) workforce within non-Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) in New South Wales (NSW). The research aims to understand the contributors to cultural load, examine its effects on social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB), and explore how it influences workloads, job satisfaction, and career progression among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander AOD workers.

The study addresses the limited literature on cultural load, particularly within the AOD sector, and seeks to provide insights that can lead to improved culturally safe work practices. By identifying the nuances of cultural load, the project aims to strengthen leadership, enhance recruitment and retention, and reduce stress and burnout in the sector. This, in turn, is expected to advance culturally responsive service delivery, improving the experience and engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander AOD service users and leading to better health outcomes.

The literature review highlights the ongoing impacts of colonialism, racism, and social exclusion on the SEWB of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who disproportionately represent 20% of the AOD service client base in NSW. Cultural load encompasses additional cultural responsibilities and expectations placed on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers, often unrecognized in their job descriptions. Factors contributing to cultural load include media discourse, significant cultural dates, political issues, and community expectations.

The research aims to define cultural load within the context of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander AOD workforce in NSW, build an evidence base to support the sector, and develop strategies to mitigate cultural load and enhance workplace cultural safety.