The ACT Government has started consultation on the next plan to reduce alcohol and other drug-related harms for individuals, families and the broader Canberra community.
The draft ACT Drug Strategy Action Plan 2022-2026 sets out priorities for the Territory and outlines evidence-based whole-of-sector actions for the next four years.
The final plan will replace the now-concluded 2018-2021 Drug Strategy Action Plan and will align with the National Drug Strategy 2017-2026.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the plan will continue the ACT's nation-leading approach to treating alcohol, tobacco and other drug use as a health issue.
"We remain committed to investing in evidence-based and practice-informed harm minimisation responses to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
"This draft plan builds on significant investments made in the 2022-23 Budget, which saw the ACT Government commit $13 million in additional ongoing support to add to the $20 million in investments made over the previous three years to improve drug and alcohol services for the community."
The draft plan has been collaboratively designed by the ACT Health Directorate 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," Minister 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.
"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."
Canberrans are invited to have their say to inform the plan's scope, priorities and activities.
Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT CEO Dr Devin Bowles said he welcomes community consultation on the plan.
"This process will allow the ACT Government to leverage the expertise of the specialist alcohol and other drug treatment and harm reduction sector and people with lived experience of drug use," Dr Bowles said.
Minister Stephen-Smith said the ACT Government wants to hear from all sectors of the community.
"Your engagement with this consultation will be treated with absolute respect and in line with privacy requirements," Minister Stephen-Smith 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."
