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‘Treatment working’ as Government backs NGOsThe Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) has welcomed today’s Federal Government announcement that funding for over 100 non-government organisations involved in the treatment of drug and alcohol problems has been continued for another 3 years. Chairman of the ANCD, Major Brian Watters, said “Despite the tremendous results we have recently seen in Australia, such as a dramatic decrease in overdose deaths and the first reduction in the levels of illicit drug use for a long time, the ANCD has been advising governments and communities not to become complacent.” Major Watters added, “This is why we are very pleased to have been involved in the decision to continue funding for a large number of non-government drug and alcohol treatment services around the country. It is yet another significant investment by the Federal Government to establish treatment as an accessible and viable option for anyone using and experiencing problems with drugs. This funding also recognises that treatment does work, and that the non-government sector makes a very significant contribution in the treatment of drug and alcohol use in Australia.” National Council given an Asia-Pacific roleThe ANCD was also pleased with the announcement that it is to take on a broader role by advising the Federal Government on drug issues affecting the Asia-Pacific Region. Specifically, the ANCD will provide ongoing and crucial advice about how Australia can most effectively fulfil its Regional obligations by co-ordinating and maximising its impact, response and assistance. Major Watters stated “The ANCD is confident that through this initiative it can bring together most of the key people currently working to reduce the supply, demand and harm from drugs in the Region. This collective expertise will then be utilised to provide the Australian Government with clear advice and options on how to better address Regional drug issues. For example, the alarming increase in methamphetamine production and use both here and throughout the Region is an issue that requires a co-ordinated and integrated approach. Indeed, when it comes to drug issues, there is a lot we can both offer and learn from our Region, and we will be striving to ensure that we work with our neighbours in a way that improves all our responses in tackling what we know is a global problem.” 2 October 2003
The ANCD is the principal advisory body to Government on drug and alcohol issues. For further information, please contact: Major Brian Watters (Chair) Mr Gino Vumbaca (Executive Officer)
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