ACT Health has unveiled a draft plan to reduce alcohol and other drug-related harms for individuals, families and the broader Canberra community.
Opening consultation on the draft ACT Drug Strategy Action Plan 2022-2026, Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith said the Plan set out priorities for the Territory and outlined evidence-based whole-of-sector actions for the next four years.
Ms Stephen-Smith said the draft Plan had been collaboratively designed by ACT Health and key stakeholders, including other Government Directorates, advocacy groups, treatment providers, peer organisations and affected community members.
“This design process has identified a number of priority areas and actions that we are now seeking to confirm or refine through community consultation,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“We want to know what improvements can be made to service delivery to ensure the right people are able to access the right supports at the right time,” she said.
“We also want to hear your ideas about how we, as a community, can reduce the stigma surrounding alcohol and other drug use, and how we can best reach vulnerable Canberrans who are disproportionately affected by the use of alcohol and other drugs.”
Ms Stephen-Smith said the Directorate wanted to hear from all sectors of the community before 24 October.
“Your engagement with this consultation will be treated with absolute respect and in line with privacy requirements,” the Minister said.
“By having your say, you will be helping to build a strong, sustainable and innovative plan that will reduce the harm and stigma associated with alcohol and other drug use.”
The 26-page draft Action Plan can be accessed at this PS News link.
