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News from ATODA
Where does our sector want to be in 5 years?
Invitation: Strategic Brainstorming Forums
ATODA members and stakeholders are invited to attend one or both strategic brainstorming forums on Tuesday 13 October 2015 at University House, Acton. The first forum is directed at workers with service user contact, while the second forum will focus on broader systems, policy and research.
The forums will generate ideas for the sector for the next five years, which can then contribute to policy processes such as the 2016-17 ACT Budget and the new ACT and National Drug Strategies.
ATODA’s overarching goal is the identification of priority outcomes and the activities needed to achieve them so as to make the ACT community healthier and safer and the ATOD sector the best in Australia.
ATODA will be seeking input across the following domains:
- Treatment and support
- Workforce development
- Participation of service and drug users, families and friends
- Research
- Harm reduction
- Law reform and enforcement
- Primary prevention
Date: Tuesday 13 October 2015
Time:
Forum 1 - 9:30am -12:30pm (frontline workers)
Forum 2 - 1:30 - 4:30pm (Executives/managers, researchers, policy makers and others)
Venue: Common Room, University House, The Australian National University
RSVP: Essential to Carrie Fowlie at carrie@atoda.org.au
Cost: Free
For more information: See the flyer, email carrie@atoda.org.au or call (02) 6255 4070
Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm Collaboration Workshop
ATODA has invited ACT-based specialist alcohol and other drug service providers, researchers and evaluators to a workshop to support local thinking about collaborations and partnerships related to the Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm.
ATODA understands that the Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific alcohol and other drug rehabilitation service, is due to open its doors in 2016. We also understand that the ACT Government is soon planning to release expressions of interest for the tender for the delivery of alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services at the Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm.
ATODA is strongly supportive of the Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm and acknowledges the significant work, by many stakeholders over many years, that has gone towards establishing the service so far. We are aware that the United Ngunnawal Elders Council, and then the Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm Advisory Board, have been promoting the service for over a decade and that many peopleʼs hard work will come to fruition with the opening of the service in 2016.
Collaboration and evidence-based practice are cornerstone principles and ways of working in the ACT alcohol and other drug sector. This workshop is an opportunity for key service delivery, research and evaluation stakeholders to come together to consider opportunities for collaboration and how this new service may fit within the existing service system (e.g. referrals, continuity of care, discharge planning).
The workshop will be held on 1 October 2015, is by invitation and is for:
- CEOs / Managers (or their delegate) of ACT-based agencies funded to deliver specialist alcohol and other drug rehabilitation and support services.
- ACT-based researchers and evaluators with expertise in the areas of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
For further information please contact Carrie Fowlie on carrie@atoda.org.au
AOD Specialist First Aid Training (for registered participants only)
ATODA is providing subsidies to workers in specialist ACT alcohol, tobacco and other drug services as part of a pilot of accredited Alcohol and Other Drug First Aid Training. The outcomes of the pilot will be evaluated and will seek to inform the ongoing delivery of training in the ACT, including through the ACT ATOD Qualification Strategy.
This First Aid course is what was previously known as Level 2 First Aid and is delivered within the context of working within the Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) sector. While there are specific areas that all First Aid training must cover – this training is delivered with additional emphasis on drug interactions on the central nervous system; consideration and demonstration of blood born viruses; and information emergency services will require if attending an overdose; including Naloxone as part of the response to an opioid overdose. As AOD workers, the ability to respond effectively and promptly to overdose situations is imperative; during this training there is a strong focus on responding and providing CPR.
Date: 19 or 20 October 2015
Time: 8:45 (for 9am start) – 5pm
Venue: Room 8, Griffin Centre, 20 Genge St, Canberra City
Cost: Partial subsidies provided by ATODA
Registrations: RSVP’s are being coordinated through ACT ATOD service Executive Officers
For more information: Email Julie@atoda.org.au, or call (02) 6255 4070
Enhanced Performance Management: A Practical Workshop for ACT ATOD Services
This practical and engaging workshop will provide an introduction to performance management processes, key concepts and the tools to enable participants to reflect, plan and implement ways of measuring, analysing and reporting on work. A range of case studies will be examined, and participants will be provided with a copy of the The Enhanced Performance Management Guide. The training is being provided by the Network of Alcohol and Drug Agencies in collaboration with Directions and ATODA.
Date: Wednesday 21 October 2015
Time: 10am – 3pm
Venue: Level 6, Cosmopolitan Centre, Woden Square, Woden
Cost: Free
RSVP: Places are limited. Complete the Registration Form and send to Julie Robert at julie@atoda.org.au
For more information: See the flyer, visit the NADA website, email suzie@nada.org.au or call (02) 8113 1309
ACT ATOD Qualification Strategy (QS) – Semester 2, 2015 (for registered participants only)
The Qualification Strategy aims to ensure the development and maintenance of a competent and professional ACT alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) workforce. It also aims to ensure that all workers have a shared minimum knowledge and skill base. In Semester 2, 2015 the first two units of the 4 Core Competencies (4CC) will be offered. The final unit for 2015 will be CHCAOD406E: Work with clients who are intoxicated.
Date: 9, 10, 11 November 2015
Time: 9am – 5pm
Venue: Meeting Room 6, Griffin Centre, 20 Genge St, Canberra City
For further information: See the information package, or contact Julie Robert on julie@atoda.org.au, call (02) 6255 4070, or visit the ATODA website
Update of the We CAN Program—Communities Accessing all-types of Nicotine Replacement Therapy
On 1 July 2015, the We CAN Program was rolled out through specialist alcohol and other drug (AOD) non-government organisations (NGOs). The We CAN Program provides service users who wish to quit or reduce their smoking with vouchers for nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). These vouchers can be presented at a participating pharmacy to access up to 8–12 weeks worth of any types of NRT (patches, gum, inhalator, lozenges, spray). Participants receive additional smoking cessation support from workers at the participating organisations and/or from pharmacy staff.
Since starting, the Program has enabled 59 participants to access all-types of NRT through pharmacies at Tuggeranong, Civic, Jamison, Dickson and Griffith. So far, the profile of people accessing the We CAN Program has been similar to those accessing the ACT AOD services more generally: about two-thirds are male; 12% are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; and about 80% are aged over 25 years.
The Program is also being evaluated through a survey, and the response rate to this survey has been excellent (93%). We are looking forward to seeing the data from the Program to assess how successful it is at supporting people who access drug treatment and support services to make quit attempts, and to quit or reduce their smoking.
For further information: Contact Anke van der Sterren on anke@atoda.org.au, call (02) 6255 4070
See other ATODA news throughout the ebulletin.
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ATOD Workers Groups
The ACT ATOD Workers Group met on 3 September 2015, and are progressing work across a range of areas. If you would like to get involved, please review the information below and liaise with the Workers Group representative from your agency. Activities / discussions include:
- Hepatitis ACT provided an update on the bleach sachets currently available at the Alexander Maconochie Centre. They drew attention to research demonstrating the effectiveness of bleach (when used properly) at disinfecting syringes contaminated with hepatitis C. See http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4438897/ for more information or ATODA’s August Research ebulletin
- Toora Women Inc provided information on the WIREDD Day Program. See http://www.toora.org.au/#!wiredd/c1vyy for more information. The Workers Group welcomed Rebecca Wood who has taken up the role of AOD Clinical Specialist at Toora Women Inc.
- Rebecca Wood has been nominated by the Workers Group to be appointed to the ATODA Board at the upcoming AGM.
- ATODA will be offering in-services for members to provide an opportunity for the workers in member agencies to receive an update on ATODA work and discuss and inform the work of ATODA.
- ATODA provided an update on the launch of the Independent Evaluation of the Implementing Expanded Naloxone Availability in the ACT. For more information see http://health.act.gov.au/sites/default/files//Naloxone%20Evaluation%20Report%20FINAL_August%202015.pdf
For further information about the ACT ATOD Workers Group visit the ATODA website or contact Julie Robert, ATODA on julie@atoda.org.au
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ACT Policy
2016-17 Budget Consultation Process
ACT Government
The ACT Government is seeking views and suggestions as to how the Government should prioritise and efficiently allocate the Territory’s resources in developing the 2016‑17 Budget.
The provision of input must be made by Wednesday 14 October 2015.
For more information: See the Chief Minister and Treasurer’s Message, see the Consultation paper, or call (02) 6207 1375
ATODA will be making a submission to the ACT Budget Consultation. To contribute ideas, attend the Strategic Brainstorming Forum or contact Carrie Fowlie on carrie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.
Delay proposed amendments to the Children and Young People's Act
ATODA, Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS), Mental Health Community Coalition ACT (MHCCACT)
ATODA, Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) and the Mental Health Community Coalition ACT (MHCC ACT) wrote to the Minister for Children and Young People seeking a delay to the proposed amendment to the Children and Young People Act 2008, which would reduce the maximum length of an initial care and protection order from two years to one year for children aged two or under at the entry to care, until after the release of the ‘Step Up for Our Kids Strategy’ formal evaluation and release of independently chaired review panel’s 2016-2017 report to the Minister for Children and Young People.
For more information: See the full letter or contact Carrie Fowlie on carrie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.
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National Policy
National Alcohol and Other Drug Workforce Development Strategy 2015 - 2018
Intergovernmental Committee on Drugs
This Strategy has been developed to support the National Drug Strategy at the request of the Intergovernmental Committee on Drugs in recognition of the need for a national focus on workforce development activities for the alcohol and other drug (AOD) workforce.
The Strategy identifies key strategic action areas to enhance the capacities of Australia’s AOD workforce. It is intended to be a strategic, rather than operational, document. The Strategy will link with other work already underway and be used to inform future activity.
For more information: See the Strategy, or visit the website
Funding for Treatment, Not Stigma and Discrimination, The Answer
Alcohol and Other Drug Sector State and Territory Peaks
Alcohol and other drug specialists are urging the Federal Government to commit resources to treatment and rehabilitation programs, reducing methamphetamine-related harm and reducing demand for the drug.
Peak bodies for the alcohol and other drug sector in each state and territory represent not-for-profit alcohol and other drug services delivering prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and harm reduction programs. The peaks are working together to call for a genuine commitment from the Australian Government to addressing alcohol and other drug-related harm.
For more information: See the full media release, email jill.rundle@wanada.org.au, or call 0407 055 513
Reversing the Cuts to Substance Misuse Funds
Australian Labor
Stephen Jones MP, Shadow Assistant Minister for Health has called for a reversal of the harsh Budget cuts to substance misuse funds as waiting lists for illicit drugs treatment services continue to worsen.
For more information: See the media release, or call 0408 542 547
New Ministry
Australian Government
On 20 September 2015 the new Turnbull Government ministry list was announced.
The Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP has been appointed as Assistant Minister for Health.
For more information: Visit the Liberal Party website, email libadm@liberal.org.au or call (02) 6273 2564
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Sector Development, Events and Activities
20th Annual Remembrance Ceremony
Families for Drug Law Reform (FFDLR)
Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform (FFDLR) will be holding the 20th Annual Remembrance Ceremony ‘for those who lose their life to illicit drugs’.
Speakers include:
- Kate Carnell AO, CEO Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (as Chief Minister of the ACT in 1996 Ms Carnell unveiled the plaque at the first ceremony)
- Rev Graham Long AM, Pastor, The Wayside Chapel
- Tony Trimingham OAM, CEO Family Drug Support
Date: 26 October 2015
Time: 12:30 – 1:30pm
Venue: Weston Park, Yarralumla
For more information: See the flyer, visit the FFDLR website, email mcconnell@ffdlr.org.au, or call (02) 6169 7678
Together Enhancing Accessibility Survey
Drug and Alcohol Multicultural Education Centre (DAMEC)
The Drug and Alcohol Multicultural Education Centre (DAMEC) invites service providers in Australian drug and alcohol settings to complete an anonymous online survey about the ways that they work together with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. TEA aims to improve practices that make AOD services more accessible for CALD communities.
This research objectives are:
- Identify current issues in AOD services that affect access
- Examine how current policy is implemented
- Inform the development of training and professional development
- Highlight opportunities for collaboration between AOD services and multicultural organisations, community associations, and health agencies
To complete the survey, click here
For more information: Visit the DAMEC website, or email research@damec.org.au
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Newsletters, Magazines and Updates
Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform Newsletter
Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform (FFDLR)
This newsletter includes information about topics of concern for FFDLR and ACT and national developments in the alcohol and other drug sector.
For more information: See the newsletter
ACT Population Health Bulletin
ACT Government
In this issue of the Bulletin, the focus is on the importance of good nutrition for population health, but it also includes an item on electronic cigarettes and medical cannabis.
For more information: See the Bulletin
Winnunga Newsletter
Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service
The latest edition of the Winnuga Newsletter includes topics such as: Removal of Aboriginal Children: A National Disgrace; The Adam Goodes Saga; The Importance of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services; Closing the Gap; Follow up of the recent ICE Forum at Winnunga; Touch Football at Winnunga; Stephen Freeman – The Silence Continues.
For more information: See the latest issue
The Loop
National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
The Loop contains information about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders such as National and New Zealand news, resources, latest research and up coming events.
For more information: See the latest issue
InTouch
Public Health Association Australia (PHAA)
Intouch is the monthly newsletter of the PHAA summarising public health news and events in Australia.
For more information: See the latest issue
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Resources and Publications
Australia’s Annual Report Card on HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmissible Infections
Kirby Institute, UNSW
Australia is close to achieving global targets for the testing and treatment of HIV, but more needs to be done to identify and treat infections early, according to a new report by the Kirby Institute at UNSW Australia, released at the World STI and HIV Congress in Brisbane.
For more information: See the Report, visit the Kirby Institute website, email recpt@kirby.unsw.edu.au, or call (02) 9385 0900
Tobacco Indicators Baseline Data: Reporting Under the National Tobacco Strategy 2012-2018
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
This report presents baseline data for several tobacco indicators using various data sources and collections years. The baseline showed that some groups are at much higher risk of smoking or being exposed to second-hand smoke, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, those living in remote or socioeconomically disadvantaged areas, and single parents with dependent children.
For more information: See the Report, see the media release, or call (02) 6244 1000
Research Update from ICPS
Institute of Child Protection Studies (ICPS), Australian Catholic University (ACU)
The Research Update aims to keep stakeholders informed about the projects the ICPS is undertaking. The September 2015 update provides information on the following current research projects:
- Managing Ethical Studies on Sensitive Issues (MESSI): Involving children in social research
- kContact: Keeping contact between parents and children in care
- Developing an understanding of how children understand and experience safety in institutions
- Child Protection Practitioner Study
- ‘Growing our Spirit’: Improving the evidence base for community-developed assessments of kinship carers of Aboriginal children
- Evaluation of the Youth Hope Program
- Building Capacity in Family Support Service: Provision of evaluative support services to FaC service providers
For more information: See the Report, visit the ACU website or call (02) 6209 1190
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Training and Professional Development
ACT Comorbidity Bus Tours
ATODA, Mental Health Community Coalition ACT and the Youth Coalition of the ACT
The Comorbidity Bus Tour seeks to increase the capacity of frontline workers to support people experiencing co-occurring ATOD and mental health issues (comorbidity). The Comorbidity Bus Tour visits a variety of services in the ACT from the alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD), mental health and youth sectors.
The next Comorbidity Bus Tour for 2015 will be Tour C on 7 October 2015.
Cost: Members of the Youth Coalition, ATODA or MHCC ACT $50, $60 Non-member or non-government organisations, $70 Government workers
For more information: Visit ATODA's website, email bustours@youthcoalition.net or call (02) 6247 3540
October - November 2015 Training and Professional Development Calendar
ATODA, Mental Health Community Coalition ACT and the Youth Coalition of the ACT
The ACT Training and Professional Development Calendar collates training and professional development opportunities for workers in the alcohol, tobacco and other drug, youth, mental health, family support and community sectors.
To get the October - November 2015 training calendar, click here.
To include your training in the next calendar, email info@youthcoalition.net or call the Youth Coalition on (02) 6247 3540
Accidental Counsellor Training
Lifeline ACT
Accidental Counsellor is a two-day workshop that provides participants with fundamental skills in crisis support counselling and dealing with difficult situations. The course also covers topics such as dealing with people who are angry, highly distressed, drug and alcohol affected or experiencing effects of a mental illness.
Date: 12 & 13 October, 3 & 4 November, 1 & 2 December 2015
Cost: $450 general, $400 not-for-profit organisations
For more information: See the brochure, visit the Lifeline ACT website, email training@actlifeline.org.au, or call (02) 6204 6402
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Recruitment and Retention
ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS)
This workshop will address topics such as:
- Knowing how to recruit and retain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers
- Provide culturally appropriate supervision
- Gain a better understanding of cultural obligations and how to address those needs
- Provide a safe and culturally secure workplace
- Become an employer of choice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers
- How to advertise to the targeted audience
Date: 23 October 2015
Time: 9:30am – 12:30pm
Venue: ACTCOSS meeting room, 1/6 Gritten St, Weston
Cost: Free
For more information: Visit the evenbrite page, email actcoss@actcoss.org.au, or call (02) 6202 7200
LivingWorks Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
Lifeline Canberra
ASIST is a two-day interactive workshop which aims to improve participants suicide awareness and prevention skills. The course is presented by LivingWorks-accredited facilitators, who use internationally standardised resources and materials. Participants are trained to recognise when a person may be at risk and how to respond to improve the immediate and long-term safety of the person at risk.
Date: 26 & 27 October, 7 & 8 December 2015
Time: 9am – 5pm
For more information: See the flyer, email training@act.lifeline.org.au, or call (02) 6204 6402
Domestic Violence: Information, Awareness and Supports Available in the ACT
Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS)
This information session is for those interested in gaining a basic understanding of what domestic, family and intimate partner violence is and the services available, including DVCS programs. This session will increase general awareness to assist in the overall reduction of violence in our community.
Date: 12 November 2015
Time: 5:30 – 7pm
Venue: Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden
For more information: Visit the DVCS website, email admin@dvcs.org.au, or call (02) 6228 1794
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Service Delivery
ADAPT
Directions
The ADAPT (alcohol drug awareness [harm] prevention training) Program is a psycho-educational group for people who are pre-contemplative about their substance use. It comprises of a 3 session program, aimed at providing education around the impact of substance use and strategies to adapt or change. This program may be suitable to clients who have been mandated to attend AOD treatment.
Date: Group runs on Fridays
Time: 10:30am – 12pm
Venue: Level 6, Cosmopolitan Centre Bowes St, Woden
For more information: Visit the Directions website, email reception@directionsact.com, or call (02) 6132 4800
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Conferences and Symposiums
2015 National Cannabis Conference
National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre (NCPIC)
The conference includes a one-day workshop, and two days of international and local speakers.The event will include the latest research on emerging areas, and papers on various perspectives of cannabis legalisation policy.
Date: 7 - 9 October 2015
Venue: Melbourne Rydges Hotel, Melbourne
Cost: $599, Concession $350
For more information: See the program, visit the conference website
International Symposium on Hepatitis Care in Substance Users 2015
International Network for Hepatitis in Substance Users (INHSU)
This symposium is the leading International conference focused on the management of hepatitis among substance users. It attracts delegates including health professionals (including doctors, nurses and allied health), researchers, community organisations, people who use drugs and policy makers.
This year’s conference will focus on issues related to:
- HCV epidemiology, screening, assessment
- HCV treatment and care
- HCV treatment access and implementation
Date: 7 - 9 October 2015
Venue: Sydney Manly Novotel Pacific, Sydney
Cost: $620
For more information: Visit the website, see the program
DPMP Symposium
Drug Policy Modelling Program (DPMP)
This year the annual Drug Policy Modelling Program (DPMP) symposium will be held in conjunction with the annual Drug Trends Conference. The DPMP Symposium will consider drug policy from multiple perspectives - treatment, harm reduction and law enforcement - with papers on policy evaluations and policy processes and examination of the effects of policy development, design and implementation on drug-related harms.
Date: 14 October 2015
Time: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Venue: Customs House, Sydney
Cost: $220 DPMP Symposium, $320 both Drug Trends Conference and DPMP Symposium
For more information: Visit the website, or call (02) 9385 0167
The Annual National Drug Trends Conference
National Drug & Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC)
The National Drug Trends Conference will present recent findings in illicit drug use, markets and related harms across Australia and internationally.
Convened by Australia’s largest drug monitoring systems, the Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) and the Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS), the one-day conference will include the first release of the 2015 findings.
Date: 14 October 2015
Time: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Venue: Customs House, Sydney
Cost: $220 DPMP Symposium (see above), $320 both Drug Trends Conference and DPMP Symposium
For more information: Visit the website, or call (02) 9385 0333
24th International Harm Reduction Conference
Harm Reduction International, Malaysian AIDS Council
The four day event will bring together up to 1,000 people from 70 countries to participate in a diverse and exciting program of panel discussions, training workshops, group discussions and film/video presentations.
This year’s theme – ‘Call for Leadership’ – reflects the urgent need to address critical issues faced by the harm reduction response.
Date: 18 – 21 October 2015
Venue: Royale Chulan Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
Cost: £495: Standard/low & middle income; £595 Standard/high income; after 1 October 2015: £899
For more information: Visit the Conference website, see the program, email nigel.kay@ihra.net
Second National Complex Needs Conference
Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA), National Complex Needs Alliance (NCNA)
The second Australian conference aims to showcase successful programs/approaches in addressing complex needs - with the broader purpose of identifying what works and how.
Date: 17 – 18 November 2015
Venue: Canberra Rex Hotel, Braddon
Cost: $690 PHAA member, $770 non-member
For more information: Visit the Conference website, or email events@phaa.net.au
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Grants and Funding Opportunities
PHAA Conference Scholarships
Public Health Association of Australia
The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) is offering a number of scholarships to support attendance at this conference.
The scholarships will cover registration cost to enable delegates representing disadvantaged communities and vulnerable population groups to attend the conference – including (but not limited to): Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities/organizations, refugee/asylum seeker communities/organisations, consumer representatives/organisations.
The Second National Complex Needs Conference will be held on 17 – 18 November 2015 at the Canberra Rex Hotel.
For more information: Visit the Conference website, or email events@phaa.net.au
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Consumer Participation
Drug Law Enforcement Policy Survey
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC)
The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at the University of New South Wales is undertaking a project funded by the Australian Research Council to look at the impacts of Australian policing strategies upon drug and alcohol use and drug selling at outdoor music festivals and licensed entertainment precincts.
They have built a national anonymous online survey (the Drug Policing Survey) which will run for 3-4 months. The survey will take about 15-30 minutes for people to complete.
This study will provide the first comprehensive assessment of the impacts of ‘drug’ policing in Australia. It will assess a range of questions including: to what extent can police prevent or ‘deter’ drug use? To what extent does policing increase harms from drug or alcohol use? To what extent will the impacts of policing differ according to settings (festivals versus licensed entertainment precincts) and the population that is being targeted (e.g. those aged 18 versus those aged 30+)?
To complete the survey, click here.
For more information: Visit the NDARC website, email caitlin.hughes@unsw.edu.au, or call (02) 9385 0132
Flipside
The Association of Participating Service Users
Flipside is a quarterly published newsletter. It contains articles, stories, and poetry written by people who use or have used alcohol and other drug treatment services.
For more information: See the latest issue
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Youth, Mental Health and Allied Sector
Mental Health Week & Wellbeing Expo
Mental Health Community Coalition of the ACT (MHCC ACT)
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Expo is all about promoting positive mental health and wellbeing within the community. It also brings service providers working in the health and community sectors together to showcase their services, network and celebrate the work that they do. It's a great way to find about services in your local area.
Date: 6 October 2015
Time: 10am – 2pm
Venue: Woden Southern Cross Club 92-96 Corinna St, Phillip
Cost: Free
For more information: Visit the website, or call (02) 6249 7756
Opening of the Rainbow
Mental Health Foundation ACT
The Mental Health Foundation is inviting people to attend the official opening of the Rainbow Program.
Date: 19 October 2015
Time: 11am
Venue: The Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub, Corner of Eggleston and Maclaurin Crescent’s, Chifley
Cost: Free
For more information: See the flyer, email Bradley.hyde@mhf.org.au or call 0406 377 678
Biennial Youth Affairs Conference & YOGIE Awards
Youth Coalition of the ACT
The Conference will provide an opportunity for workers and managers in the ACT to engage with leading research, discussion, workshops, and practice development.
The rockstar event of the ACT youth sector is the annual YOGIE Awards. The YOGIES will be celebrated over dinner on Thursday 3 December.
Date: 3-4 December 2015
For more information: Visit the Youth Coalition of the ACT website, or email Rachel@youthcoalition.net
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ACT Media
This section includes ATOD related media from or relevant to the ACT
ATODA in the Media
Alcohol-fuelled assaults prompt Canberra nightclub lockout call
Canberra Times, 16 September 2015
Peak alcohol safety bodies have called on the ACT government to introduce a 1am lockout policy at bars and nightclubs in Canberra after a spate of alcohol-induced assaults.
For more information: See the article
Calls for trailblazing ACT drug overdose reversal program to be rolled out nation-wide
ABC News, 31 August 2015
A trailblazing ACT initiative to prevent drug overdoses has been given a ringing endorsement by an independent panel of experts.
For more information: See the article
Drug trial praised for saving more than 50 Canberrans from overdoses
Canberra Times, 30 August 2015
More than 50 Canberrans have been saved from fatal heroin and opioid overdoses thanks to an Australia-first trial that has equipped users with take-home naloxone kits.
For more information: See the article
Alcohol-related news
Karalee Katsambanis: Sorry not enough for selfish drink drivers
Canberra Times, 29 September 2015
Chances are that too many Australian families will be visiting the morgue and identifying the bodies of their innocent loved ones who never made it home due to the selfish actions of drivers who drink and don't give two hoots about the rest of us.
For more information: See the article
We must stop accepting alcohol as an excuse for violence
Canberra Times, 28 September 2015
Is Australia's drinking problem our equivalent of America's gun culture - an untouchable problem that puts an individual's rights before the civil rights of the most vulnerable?
For more information: See the article
Junk food, alcohol and gambling advertising banned on Canberra’s ACTION buses
ABC News, 28 September 2015
Junk food, alcohol and gambling advertisements will be banned on ACTION buses under a strict new ACT Government policy.
For more information: See the article
Gowrie woman who crashed car with children on board was drink-driving
Canberra Times, 27 September 2015
A Canberra woman had two children as passengers and more than double the legal limit of alcohol in her system when she crashed her car into a wall, police say.
For more information: See the article
Dial a Driver takes drunk Canberrans home in their own car
Canberra Times, 25 September 2015
The concept of Dial a Driver has been around for more than 30 years but it was only launched in the ACT three years ago in an effort to minimise drink-driving accidents. One driver takes people home in their own car while another driver follows.
For more information: See the article
Police raise prospect of risk zones to reduce Canberra alcohol related violence
Canberra Times, 21 September 2015
ACT Policing has called on the territory government to consider implementing risk zones in the city where higher penalties could be issued for alcohol related offences.
For more information: See the article
Drunk driver charged after erratic driving in Turner
Canberra Times, 21 September 2015
A man spotted driving erratically in Turner on Sunday has been charged with drink driving after he allegedly recorded a blood alcohol reading of 0.330.
For more information: See the article
Lawyers warn on effectiveness of alcohol interlocks fitted to Canberra cars
Canberra Times, 19 September 2015
Lawyers say high costs and mandatory delays are hampering the effectiveness of the ACT's new alcohol interlock scheme, which has been used by more than 80 drink drivers in the past 14 months.
For more information: See the article
ACT Victims of Crime Commissioner does not support a 1am lockout in the city
Canberra Times, 17 September 2015
ACT Victims of Crime Commissioner John Hinchey does not support a 1am lockout in the city to prevent alcohol related violence, despite support from many alcohol safety bodies.
For more information: See the article
Live sport loophole means millions of alcohol advertising messages still reaching kids
Canberra Times, 17 September 2015
Experts are calling for an independent review of Australia's broadcast and digital alcohol advertising guidelines, after the advertising industry's own data revealed underage viewers are still receiving millions of exposures to alcohol advertisement thanks to a loophole in the code.
For more information: See the article
Australia is an alcoholic, writes grieving brother of ‘one-punch’ victim
Canberra Times, 17 September 2015
Plea to Premier to lead changes to end epidemic of drug and alcohol abuse and misuse that leads to senseless violence.
For more information: See the article
Can a big Saturday night mean you test positive on a Wednesday?
Triple J, 17 September 2015
Police are not concerned with your level of impairment, or capacity to drive safely. They are looking for a presence of an illegal drug in drivers’ saliva.
For more information: See the article
Key must not turn on alcohol lockouts laws
Canberra Times, 14 September 2015
18 months after the suite of measures known as Sydney's "lockout laws" dramatically changed things for the better, an array of special interest groups are working to have them watered down or struck from the books.
For more information: See the article
Jarryd Hayne San Francisco 49ers NFL debut: Canberra Casino forced to scrap 49c beers
Canberra Times, 14 September 2015
It was a deal too good to be true - the Canberra Casino slashing beer prices to a ridiculous 49 cents to celebrate Jarryd Hayne's NFL debut with the San Francisco 49ers.
But the Casino has been forced to alter its promotion for Tuesday's game between the 49ers and the Minnesota Vikings after finding out it was a violation of liquor licensing regulations.
For more information: See the article
ACT Government liquor law changes could see dangerous venues identified
ABC News, 12 September 2015
Canberra's pubs and clubs could be forced to take part in a "scores on doors" scheme alerting patrons to just how risky they are as part of an ACT Government overhaul of liquor laws.
For more information: See the article
Man sentenced to nine months over near-fatal drunken punch
Canberra Times, 4 September 2015
Matt Pridham's mother was twice told to prepare for her son's death as he lay in intensive care, his life hanging in the balance after a pointless alcohol-fuelled attack in Civic.
For more information: See the article
Man found guilty of drunken punch that caused brain damage
Canberra Times, 31 August 2015
A Canberra man has been found guilty of unleashing a drunken punch that hospitalised another with a serious brain injury.
For more information: See the article
Australians are shunning beer at a greater rate, new research shows
Canberra Times, 30 August 2015
Summer is to beer as winter is to log fires. Or so the theory goes. Each year Australia's peak in consumption is dropping by a greater amount, new data shows.
For more information: See the article
Drug-related news
Last Resort Rehab
SBS News, 29 September 2015
Australian ice addicts are increasingly turning to extreme vomit treatment in Thailand, but can it break their habit? Dateline looks at how a shortage of treatment at home is driving some to reach this last resort.
For more information: See the article
Opioid prescription painkiller misuse surges
Canberra Times, 28 September 2015
Misuse of powerful opioid prescription painkillers has surged in the past three years, prompting one of the country's leading medical groups to call for a reduction in the number of scripts handed out.
For more information: See the article
Canberra man found guilty of drug trafficking over heroin found in McDonald’s bag
Canberra Times, 28 September 2015
A Canberra man has been found guilty of drug trafficking after police found balls of heroin stashed with food wrappers and a burger in a McDonald's bag on the front seat of his car.
For more information: See the article
Researchers investigating possible treatment for ice addiction
Canberra Times, 27 September 2015
Drug researchers are investigating whether a pill that has helped smokers kick their habit could double as a treatment for ice addiction.
For more information: See the article
AMA welcomes powers to sedate ice addicts
Canberra Times, 27 September 2015
The Australian Medical Association has welcomed new powers for emergency doctors and nurses to subdue violent ice addicts.
For more information: See the article
Legal ice too risky
Canberra Times, 26 September 2015
Tobacco and alcohol went beyond decriminalisation to legalisation, and they kill approximately 16,000 annually, and hospitalise another 50,000. If any evidence rejects decriminalising of ice, these numbers do.
For more information: See the article
Concern pain relief drug oxycodone over prescribed in Canberra’s hospitals
ABC News, 25 September 2015
The use of the pain relief drug oxycodone in Canberra's hospitals needs to be reviewed, according to the Australian Medical Association (AMA) ACT branch.
For more information: See the article
Oxycodone prescriptions surge five-fold in 10 years
Canberra Times, 23 September 2015
The number of oxycodone prescriptions in Australia has surged more than five-fold over the past decade, according to the latest government figures on drugs listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
For more information: See the article
South Sydney Rabbitohs pair Dylan Walker and Aaron Gray show improvement after painkiller overdose
ABC News, 23 September 2015
The NRL is under pressure to crack down on the abuse of prescription drugs after South Sydney pair Dylan Walker and Aaron Gray were rushed by ambulance to intensive care after a painkiller overdose on Tuesday morning put their lives in jeopardy.
For more information: See the article
Killing pain: Humanity’s obsession
Canberra Times, 23 September 2015
Though the full details of South Sydney rugby league stars Dylan Walker and Aaron Gray's overdose on painkillers are yet to be ascertained, the admission from Rabbitohs chief executive John Lee they had "taken more than the regulated amount of prescribed medication" suggests the players consumed the drugs for one reason: pleasure.
For more information: See the article
ACT government rejects call for jail security review amid contraband concerns
Canberra Times, 23 September 2015
The ACT government has rejected calls for a full-scale review of security and management practices at the territory's prison as contraband and drugs continue to pass through its walls.
For more information: See the article
Canberra drug trafficker’s guilty plea ends trial
Canberra Times, 22 September 2015
A trial for a Dunlop man allegedly found with $234,000 of drug money in a toilet seat box on the back seat of his car has ended after he pleaded guilty to trafficking cannabis.
For more information: See the article
Why I became an ice addict – and how I got clean
Canberra Times, 22 September 2015
It is so easy to form an opinion when you look at the horrific images plastered all over the TV, internet and newspapers about how treacherous and dangerous ice addicts are.
Yes, unfortunately some are. And yes, I do believe that if they do the crime, they must do the time. But not everyone addicted to ice is a dangerous criminal.
For more information: See the article
Ice addicts: Why is it never their fault?
Canberra Times, 21 September 2015
When will methamphetamine, or ice, addicts actually stop and accept responsibility for the havoc they are wreaking on our society?
For more information: See the article
Accused Canberra drug trafficker offered ‘drug money’ to police, court says
Canberra Times, 21 September 2015
A Dunlop man allegedly found with $234,000 of drug money in a toilet seat box on the back seat of his car offered the money to police, a court has heard.
For more information: See the article
Could the ACT decriminalise ice? Discussions over use and abuse welcomed
Canberra Times, 19 September 2015
Two of Canberra's leading drug treatment advocates have welcomed a discussion about decriminalising ice.
For more information: See the article
Ice addiction in Canberra spreading to surrounding small towns
Canberra Times, 19 September 2015
Ice addiction in Canberra is increasing and the scourge has reached surrounding towns, causing ripple effects through often-sheltered tight-knit communities.
For more information: See the article
Man crashes stolen car and leaves behind guns, drugs and axe in Pialligo
Canberra Times, 19 September 2015
ACT Policing are searching for a man who crashed a stolen car and left behind firearms, an axe and suspected drugs when he fled.
For more information: See the article
Inmate who was mistakenly given methadone allowed to continue civil case
Canberra Times, 16 September 2015
An ACT inmate who alleges guards mistakenly fed him methadone as he recovered from a seizure has staved off the government's attempt to have his civil claim thrown out.
For more information: See the article
Ice, cannabis, guns and suspected stolen goods seized from home in Canberra’s north
ABC News, 16 September 2015
Ice, cannabis, guns and suspected stolen goods have been seized by police from a home in Canberra's north.
For more information: See the article
Chasing the Scream author Johann Hari explains why we can’t win the war on ice
Canberra Times, 13 September 2015
Everything you thought you knew about addiction is wrong – and your government is lying to you.
These are the secrets Johann Hari believes underpin the "catastrophic failure" of the global war on drugs.
For more information: See the article
Canberra reserves used as dumps and drug dens
Canberra Times, 12 September 2015
Syringes are just one of the common finds that fall under the banner of illegal dumping.
For more information: See the article
Drugs, pornography and bicycle helmets under Senate microscope as David Leyonhjelm’s “nanny state” inquiry begins
ABC News, 11 September 2015
The rationale behind bicycle helmets, marijuana laws, film classifications and possibly even pool fences will be examined by the Senate starting today, as part of an inquiry into the Australian "nanny state".
For more information: See the article
AMA calls for security to protect doctors from ice psychosis and aggress
Canberra Times, 3 September 2015
The Australian Medical Association has warned crystal methamphetamine or ice is making the work of doctors more dangerous and called for additional security in hospitals.
For more information: See the article
Driver in fatal accident had ice in his system, court is told
Canberra Times, 2 September 2015
The vision of Canberra driver involved in a fatal accident with a pedestrian could have been affected by the methylamphetamine in his system, a medical expert says.
For more information: See the article
Man and woman front court on multiple drug charges after stop on Hume Highway
Canberra Times, 1 September 2015
Two people have been refused bail after police located an estimated $100,000 worth of drugs, including a commercial quantity of MDMA, in their car during a traffic stop near Goulburn.
For more information: See the article
Ice addict reveals struggle: Not all meth addicts are ‘down-and-outs with missing teeth’
ABC News, 1 September 2015
From the outside, Chris appears to lead an ordinary life. He seems happy, healthy and holds down a good, well-paying job.
For more information: See the article
Protections for good samaritans in heroin overdoses
CityNews, 31 August 2015
Simon Corbell says the ACT Government will progress legislative changes to protect “Good Samaritans” who administer Naloxone in life-saving situations.
For more information: See the article
ACT government calls for a no-fly zone to stop drones delivering drugs to prison
Canberra Times, 29 August 2015
The ACT government has called on authorities to restrict the airspace above Canberra's prison so drones cannot be used to deliver contraband to inmates.
For more information: See the article
Dr. Pot
Canberra Times, 29 August 2015
Dr Andrew Katelaris on the way to setting up a new cannabis growing site.
For more information: See the article
Bail refused for two men charged with supply of ice, ecstasy and cocaine on Perisher slopes
Canberra Times, 28 August 2015
Two men charged with dealing a commercial quantity of ecstasy and cocaine worth $190,000 in a Jindabyne car park have had their bail applications adjourned.
For more information: See the article
Four times as many men as women are diagnosed with cannabis psychosis
The Conversation, 27 August 2015
Ian Hamilton, Lecturer in Mental Health, University of York
Paul Galdas, Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing, University of York
The journey from first using cannabis through to developing mental health problems is very different for men and women. Men outnumber women at every point along the way.
For more information: See the article
Dealer used numerous phone and SIM cards to run drug operation
Canberra Times, 25 August 2015
A "low level street dealer" used 10 mobile phones and numerous SIM cards to run his drug business, a court has heard.
For more information: See the article
The Iceman Cometh: An extract from these things happen by Greg Fleet
News.com.au, 24 August 2015
Ice, if it chooses to take you anywhere, will eventually try to take you backwards down a one-way alley that leads to madness, fear, irrationality, delusion, suicide and murder. Most of those don’t fit under my subheading of “fun”.
For more information: See the article
Tobacco-related news
Vaping as a ‘gateway’ to smoking is still more hype than hazard
The Conversation, 24 September 2015
Lynn T Kozlowski, Professor, Department of Community Health and Health Behaviour, University of Buffalo
As e-cigarettes become more popular, there has been a push to understand whether they are a “gateway” to regular, combustible cigarettes.
For more information: See the article
How to dramatically reduce smoking without banning tobacco sales
The Conversation, 8 September 2015
Micah Berman, Assistant Professor of Public Health and Law, Ohio State University
These measures, while aggressive, might help diffuse complaints of “prohibition” and instead keep the focus on dramatically reducing the 480,000 deaths caused each year by tobacco products. And, critically, these policies avoid the pitfalls that doomed the Westminster proposal.
For more information: See the article
E-cigarette bans warranted amidst scientific uncertainty
ABC News, 3 September 2015
With NSW passing laws restricting the sale of electronic cigarettes and accessories to people under 18, Wendy Zukerman takes a look at the science: are e-cigarettes a great way of helping smokers quit or a dangerous new moneymaking attempt from the tobacco industry?
For more information: See the article
We got an FOI request from Big Tobacco – here’s how it went
The Conversation, 31 August 2015
Gerard Hastings, Professor at the Institute for Social Marketing, University of Stirling
In a world where knowledge is power, information is the antidote to oppression. We citizens must know what those at the top are doing if we’re going to hold them to account. That’s why freedom of information (FOI) legislation is a vital element of any functioning democracy; it helps rebalance power.
For more information: See the article
Tobacco companies should be free to use freedom of information laws, even if we don’t like it
The Conversation, 31 August 2015
Nola Ries, Social Lecturer, University of Newcastle
News that British American Tobacco is trying to access survey data on teenagers and tobacco use from the Victorian Cancer Council through freedom of information (FOI) laws has attracted the ire of public health advocates.
For more information: See the article
Why Big Tobacco is after our children
Canberra Times, 26 August 2015
There are signs the tobacco industry will fight to the bitter end to make sure nothing gets in the way of their goal of profiting from death and disease.
For more information: See the article
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