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Prime Minister's message

The Prime Minister, Hon Julia Gillard’s message

pm_gillard Tackling drug and alcohol abuse is an enduring challenge that requires a concerted and ongoing effort by all stakeholders involved. The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD), as the Government’s principal advisory body, is in the unique position of working with the Australian Government and in cooperation with law enforcement, the health and social welfare sectors and the community sector to identify and address the complex challenges of licit and illicit drug use.

Since 1998 the ANCD has been central in bringing together a wide range of members from various backgrounds in the drug and alcohol sectors. This enables the ANCD to conduct research and provide expert advice to ministers that will ensure that government policies and programs continue to adequately address drug and alcohol related issues.

The Australian Government’s commitment to tackle drug and alcohol abuse has been effective in reducing the rate of smoking and illicit drug use in the past. Recent initiatives, such as the National Binge Drinking Strategy which has already contributed to a 30 per cent reduction in the consumption of ready-to-drink alcohol products, demonstrate the importance of continued efforts.

I take this opportunity to congratulate the ANCD for its great advice, advocacy and achievements this year and I look forward to continue working with the ANCD to further improve drug and alcohol outcomes in Australia.

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