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News from ATODA
ATODA's Strategic Plan 2014 - 2017
Following significant member and stakeholder input, ATODA’s Strategic Plan 2014 – 2017 has been endorsed by the Board. ATODA’s strategic outcomes are:
- High quality services
- Evidence-informed practice
- Cohesive specialist sector
ATODA’s strategic priorities are:
- Improve the quality of service consumer participation
- Support the development of the workforce and services
- Improve policy, practice, participation and research collaborations
- Positive deployment of specialist ATOD expertise
Click here to read the full strategic plan.
Specialist ATOD Services and the Employment Service System
On 18 June ATODA hosted a members workshop with Ms Wilma Gallet, Employment participation expert and special advisor appointed to the Australian National Council on Drugs by the Prime Minister. Participants at the workshop:
- Discussed alcohol and drug specific issues related to employment nationally and in the ACT;
- Reflected on survey findings which captured the views of front line workers in the drug and alcohol services sector in regard to employment participation issues confronting their clients;
- Learnt more about developments in the employment service system (particularly for Tier 4) and Job Services Australia (the Australian Government employment services system that supports job seekers and employers); and
- Discussed next steps for ATODA supporting an employment services consortium and pilot project in the ACT.
Members are interested in pursuing further work in this area. For further information please contact Carrie Fowlie on carrie@atoda.org.au
Tackling Nicotine Together (TNT): Cost-effectiveness of a systems change intervention for smoking cessation in drug and alcohol treatment centres
The University of Newcastle (UoN) and ATODA have partnered to deliver the TNT research project in the ACT.
Workshop with ACT research participants
A workshop, with Associate Professor Billie Bonveski, will be held with services who have expressed interest in participating in the project on:
Date: Wednesday 9 July 2014
Time: 9:30am – 11:30am
Venue: 350 Antill St Watson (ATODA office)
RSVP: Essential to carrie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070
The workshop will focus on the research project and procedures, the role of UoN and ATODA, the links with the Under 10% Project and then discussion and questions.
To download the flyer, click here.
Site visits with ACT research participants
If you would like the research team to visit your service to discuss the TNT project in greater detail the research team will be available for the afternoon. To book in a time please contact Carrie Fowlie on carrie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070
Now online: www.act-eassist.org.au
Improving the identification and response to ATOD issues
The ACT electronic Alcohol, Smoking & Substance Involvement Screening Test (ACT eASSIST) provides a questionnaire which screens for all levels of problem or risky substance use. The ACT eASSIST provides an evidence based structured and consistent way for health, community and other workers to:
- Identify if a client / consumer is experiencing alcohol, tobacco or other drug problems
- Determine the level of risk of this use to help decide the next steps to take
- Provide a structured 10-step brief intervention and accurate alcohol, tobacco and other drug information (including through prompts)
- Produce a feedback report card for clients / consumers regarding the risks associated with their alcohol, tobacco or other drug use
- Identify an appropriate ACT referral point for specialist alcohol, tobacco or other drug treatment and support
The ACT eASSIST can now be downloaded or accessed online at www.act-eassist.org.au
For more information: See the flyer, or contact ATODA by email info@atoda.org.au, or call (02) 6255 4070
The ACT eASSIST is based on an electronic version of the World Health Organization ASSIST developed by Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia (DASSA). ATODA acknowledges and would like to thank DASSA for their partnership.
See other ATODA news throughout the ebulletin.
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Where is our Drug Action Week?!
When the Australian Government de-funded the sector’s national peak body, the Alcohol and Other Drug Council of Australia (ADCA), in November 2013 it by default also defunded Australia’s national awareness week about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs – Drug Action Week. The week, usually held towards the end of June, also highlights the achievements of the dedicated individuals who work within the sector to reduce alcohol and drug-related harm.
ATODA usually manages ACT Drug Action Week with national coordination and support from the national peak. Last year over 30 events were held in the ACT alone which included community engagement, training and professional development, media and cross-sectoral partnerships. This year only one event is scheduled.
The ACT ATOD Workers Group, who are usually the drivers of the week alongside the ACT Drug Action Week Planning Group, were extremely disappointed not to have the opportunity to engage with, and showcase their work to, the community.
There has been no communication (that ATODA is aware of) from the Australian Government on the future of this important national initiative.
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Qualification Strategy
The ACT ATOD Qualification Strategy (QS) aims to ensure the development and maintenance of a competent and professional workforce. It also aims to ensure that all workers have a shared minimum knowledge and skill base.
Applications Open for Semester 2, 2014
Applications are now open for the following training opportunities as part of the QS in semester 2, 2014:
- CHCAOD408B: Assess needs of clients with AOD issues
- CHCAOD411B: Provide interventions for clients with AOD issues
For more information or to apply download the QS Information Package: Semester 2, 2014 or contact Julie Robert on julie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.
Applications close 7 July 2014.
4 Core Competencies: Update
In the first half of 2014, the Core Competencies face-to-face training was conducted as a pilot to entail the following 2 competencies to be delivered in line with feedback from the sector:
- CHCAOD402B: Work effectively in the AOD sector (31 March - 2 April 2014)
- CHCAOD406E: Work with clients who are intoxicated (10 - 12 June) 2014.
This training was delivered in line with the following commitments:
- Timeframes for assessment and feedback were clearly outlined in the information package.
- The delivery approach allowed for additional time for assessment and feedback to be completed.
- There was closer engagement between the training provider and ATODA.
- The training was evaluated to demonstrate the skills and knowledge acquired by participants, giving the sector a greater understanding of the outcomes and skills acquired as a result of the training and opportunities to reflect on the necessary skills needed for workers to competently work in the ATOD field (report currently being prepared).
- There was continued monitoring of participant satisfaction with the course delivery and content.
In particular, participant evaluation found high levels of satisfaction with the training under the new arrangements, particularly with regard to:
- Skills expected from the training were acquired by participants.
- The training was relevant.
- The amount of work required was reasonable.
- The training was a good mixture of theory and practice.
- The trainer was knowledgeable.
As such, the delivery of the final 2 units of the 4 Core Competencies will now be pursued in line with the current arrangements.
First Aid
First Aid training will be coordinated for ATOD workers as part of the Qualification Strategy in Semester 2, 2014 (dates and details are currently being confirmed). Information will be disseminated through the ebulletin and contact lists. To express interest in the meantime please contact Julie Robert on julie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.
Post Graduate Pilot
In 2012 a pilot to fund post-graduate level studies (to an ATOD specific Graduate Certificate) for workers in the ATOD sector was initiated as part of the ACT ATOD Qualification Strategy. The pilot is consistent with initiatives being conducted through the Victorian AOD Qualification Strategy. There were two Expression of Interest processes with ACT Health funded and delivered specialist ATOD services in 2012 and 2013. 5 workers expressed interest and subsequently registered to undertake these studies as part of the pilot. To date 3 workers have achieved their Graduate Certificate, with another worker continuing their studies due for completion in mid-2015. Therefore the current pilot will be continued until then.
The pilot will be reviewed, including identifying if it has met its objectives and if there is funding to continue the initiative into the future. Further information will be available in the first half of 2015.
If you have any questions or feedback please contact ATODA on info@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.
Ongoing Development of the Qualification Strategy
A paper on the Qualification Strategy had been developed, it outlines developments, a structure for training in 2014 and also describes the ways in which ATODA is responding to stakeholder feedback. The QS has been an important area of discussion for the ACT ATOD Workers Group. It is envisaged that the policy will be reviewed again at the end of 2014 / early 2015. Download the paper here.
For more information: Contact Julie Robert on julie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.
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ACT Policy
ATODA Submission: Consultation on the Options for Restricting Access to Tobacco Discussion Paper
Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT (ATODA)
ATODA’s submission focused on the overarching policy objectives, the plausibility of the underlying assumptions and program theory, the use of evidence and assessments of policy options (including confronting the trade-offs). To download the submission click here.
Report to the Human Rights Audit on the Conditions of Detention of Women at the Alexander Maconochie Centre
ACT Human Rights Commission and Discrimination Commissioner
This Audit was commenced in response to concerns raised with the Commissioner by a
number of stakeholders about perceived inequalities faced by the small number of women detained at the AMC compared with the much larger male population in the prison.
Some of the AOD-related key issues raised include:
“The Commissioner is concerned that rehabilitation services available to women detainees are in some respects more limited than those available to male detainees. In particular, women detainees have significantly less access to structured employment opportunities within the prison than men. The Commissioner is concerned that women are not able to access the Solaris Therapeutic Community which is an intensive four-month residential program operating in a separate cottage, which has a focus on addressing alcohol and other drug addiction. The Commissioner recommends that a modified version of the Therapeutic Community be considered for women detainees.”
For more information: See the report
Service Delivery Plan for the University of Canberra Public Hospital
ACT Government
The University of Canberra Public Hospital Service Delivery Plan defines what services are proposed to be delivered by the facility, in what physical setting, by what group of staff, and sets out the interrelationships between these services.The government is interested in hearing the community’s views on the intended operation and function of the proposed services within the facility. The government is also interested to hear people’s ideas about how the intended services can best be integrated into this new facility to ensure positive consumer experiences and patient outcomes.
Closing date: 16 July 2014
For more information: Visit the Time to Talk website, or email HIP@act.gov.au.
Smoke Free Future for ACT Health
ACT Health
Director General Dr Peggy Brown has confirmed support for the upcoming implementation of completely smoke free campuses at Canberra Hospital and Calvary Hospital from 1 September 2014.
For more information: See the media release
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National Policy
Mandatory Treatment: Position Statement
Australian National Council on Drugs
The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD), after reviewing the evidence, is of the view that people with drug and alcohol use problems are often particularly vulnerable and that they should have every opportunity to be assessed and to receive interventions that might improve their chances in life; be given opportunities to access rehabilitation, and be able to receive necessary (sometimes life-saving) treatment. People who use alcohol and other drugs can have health problems and should not be criminalised for their drug and alcohol use.
The ANCD opposes the use of mandatory treatment except under exceptional circumstances. These circumstances are when:
- The person is at immediate risk of harm to self or others.
- The person lacks mental capacity to consent to treatment.
- There are no other reasonably available, appropriate and less restrictive means of response.
For more information: See the position statement
National Guidelines for Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence
Australian Government
This document marks a substantial step forward in the evolution of treatment for opioid dependence in Australia. It consolidates four, previously separate, documents into one, and reflects accrued experience with buprenorphine. It seeks to make the guidelines more clearly evidence-based and useful for service providers, policy makers and consumers.
For more information: See the Guidelines, or visit the National Drug Strategy website
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Medical Cannabis
There has been significant recent public discussion regarding medical cannabis in Australia. Below are some examples.
Issues Backgrounder: Medical Cannabis
NSW Parliament Research Service
The first half of this Issues Backgrounder considers the key legal issues that arise in relation to medical cannabis, in particular the relationship between Commonwealth and State laws. The second half sets out some of the key background parliamentary, scientific and legal sources.
For more information: See the issue, or call (02) 9230 2356
Skinner softens stance on medicinal cannabis
The Daily Telegraph, 15 June 2014
NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner has softened her stance on the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes saying she supports a proposed trial of home-grown pot.
For more information: See the article
Key nursing union backs medicinal cannabis
9 News, 15 June 2014
One of Australia’s largest nursing unions has taken the significant potentially controversial step of supporting the use and possession of medical cannabis.
For more information: See the article
Medical marijuana: contact your ministers
Sunday Night, 15 June 2014
We asked every health minister in the country whether they supported medicinal use of cannabis and here's what they had to say. We have also included contact details for you to share your thoughts with your local representative.
For more information: See the article
Should medical cannabis be legal?
Saturday Paper, 31 May 2014
A severely epileptic child finds succor in medical cannabis, but as her dealer faces prison her family doesn’t know where to turn.
For more information: See the article
NSW Premier Mike Baird open to supporting bill to decriminalise medical marijuana
Sydney Morning Herald, 30 May 2014
Premier Mike Baird has left open the possibility he may support a private member's bill to decriminalise the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes, promising that the government would give it ''careful consideration''.
For more information: See the article
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e-Cigarettes
Experts warn World Health Organisation to stay strong on e-cigarettes
Canberra Times, 16 June 2014
Australian health experts are leading an international attack on e-cigarettes, warning they are increasingly being bought up by tobacco companies and are misleading the public with claims about their safety and efficacy.
For more information: See the article
E-Cigarettes: Should we inhale?
ABC News, 6 June 2014
Electronic cigarettes. Are they saving the lives of countless smokers across the world? Or are they simply big tobacco's latest con-job?
For more information: See the article
Electronic cigarettes: hope from the hype may harm your health
The Conversation, 3 June 2014
Simon Chapman, Professor of Public Health, University of Sydney
As usual the Budget papers shed some light on exactly where the ACT Government will take more money out of individual budgets from July 1 in order to shore up its own.
For more information: See the article
Doctors urge WHO not to stamp out e-cigarettes
Canberra Times, 30 May 2014
The e-cigarette has been pushed centre stage before World No Tobacco Day, as doctors and Policy experts urge the UN’s health agency to embrace the gadget as a life saver.
For more information: See the article
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Hepatitis
World Hepatitis Day
World Hepatitis Alliance, World Health Organization
Across the world, World Hepatitis Day is celebrated on 28 July 2014 and aims at raising awareness about viral hepatitis, and to call for access to treatment, better prevention programs and governments action.
The 2014 campaign encourage people to think again about viral hepatitis.
For more information: Visit the World Hepatitis Day website, or download campaign materials
Launch of Viral Hepatitis Report Card
Hepatitis ACT
Hepatitis ACT is hosting a lunchtime event to mark World Hepatitis Day and to launch a Viral Hepatitis Report Card.
Hepatitis ACT thanks Fred Monaghan, Dr Chris Bourke MLA, Shane Rattenbury MLA, Prof Michael Levy AM, and Sione Crawford for their availability and participation.
Date: 28 July 2014
Time: 11:45am – 2pm
Venue: 1st Floor, Block K, CIT Reid, 37 Constitution Ave
For more information: See the flyer, email info@hepatitisACT.com.au, or call (02) 6230 6344
Performance Audit Report: Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, The Canberra Hospital
ACT Auditor-General’s Office
This report presents the results of a performance audit on the effectiveness of administrative and triaging practices of outpatient services provided by the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit (the GEHU) at Canberra Hospital. It makes a list of recommendations to improve governance, organisation, equitable access, processes and more.
For more information: See the report, or the media release
Auditor-General slams Canberra Hospital over gastroenterology unit
Canberra Times, 6 June 2014
The ACT Auditor-General has slammed the management of the waiting list at Canberra Hospital's gastroenterology and hepatology unit, blaming inadequate governance for blowouts.
For more information: See the article
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Congratulations: Professor Michael Levy awarded Order of Australia
ATODA would like to congratulate Professor Michael Levy who has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia Service for significant service to medicine in the field of public health as a clinician, academic and educator.
Professor Levy is the Clinical Director of Justice Health Services (Mental Health, Justice Health and Alcohol and Drug Services) and Clinical Director at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.
For more information: Visit the Australian Government website
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Sector Development, Events and Activities
Survey: Australian Indigenous Alcohol and Other Drugs Knowledge Centre Community Portal
Australian Indigenous Alcohol and Other Drugs Knowledge Centre, Edith Cowan University
The Knowledge Centre will be providing information about alcohol and other drugs on their website. Some of this information will be written specifically for Indigenous Elders and other community members who are interested in reducing the harms of alcohol and other drug use in their communities. They would like to know what information about alcohol and other drugs is needed to help inform the community. The survey takes 5-10 minutes to complete. To complete the survey, click here.
For more information: email m.catto@ecu.edu.au, or call (08) 9370 6611
2014 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards – Nominations now open
Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC)
The annual Australian Crime & Violence Prevention Awards recognise programs that reduce crime and violence in Australia. These may include programs which prevent violence against children, women, men, Indigenous people or ethnic communities, programs which prevent human trafficking, or which use design to change an environment to make it less vulnerable to crime.
Closing date: 1 August 2014
For more information: Visit the AIC website, email acvpa@aic.gov.au, or call (02) 6260 9216
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Newsletters, Magazines and Updates
Of Substance - Subscription
Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD)
ANCD has installed a new database and requires every subscriber, who have not done it yet, to sign up again to ensure they will be on the mailing list.
For more information and to subscribe: Visit the Of Substance website, or call (02) 9319 3149
Prison Issues Update (PIU)
Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD)
PIU provides material from Australia and overseas related to substance use and rehabilitation in prisons and the criminal justice system.
For more information: See the May 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
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Resources and Publications
Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) and Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS) 2013 reports now available
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC)
For more information: See the IDRS, EDRS reports, visit the NDARC website, email ndarc@unsw.edu.au, or call (02) 9385 0333
Launch of the Australian Indigenous Alcohol and Other Drugs Knowledge Centre
Department of Health, Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet, Edith Cowan University
The Knowledge Centre builds on the Substance use section of the Australian Indigenous Health InfoNet to provide a dedicated web resource for reducing harms from alcohol and other drug use in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The Knowledge Centre supports practitioners by providing AOD knowledge support and decision support materials.
For more information: Visit the Knowledge Centre website, email aodknowledgecentre@healthinfonet.org.au, or call (08) 9370 6336
Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey: Updated Results 2012-13
National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait ISlander Statistics (NCATSIS)
These results build on the previously released First results, and brings together the core sample from the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey of around 12,900. The core sample is larger than the NATSIHS sample of around 9,300 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people which was used in First results.
For more information: See the Report
SMS Service: Get the Effects by txt!
Australian Drug Foundation (ADF)
Get the effects by txt! is a new service of the Australian Drug Foundation that provides drug information via mobile text message.
People can simply text a drug name to 0439 TELL ME* (0439 835 563) and they will receive a discreet and authoritative drug information message direct to their mobile phone.
The reply will list a number of the drug's effects, and links to find further information on the DrugInfo Website as well as the Directline phone number (1800 888 236) for 24/7 free and confidential counselling and referral.
For more information: Visit the ADF website, email adf@adf.org.au, or call (03) 9611 6100
Mood + Substance Use
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC)
This booklet has been written for people who use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs who are experiencing extreme moods, like feeling really ‘down’ or depressed, or really ‘up’ or elated. It aims to:
- Help explain why some people feel the way they do
- Give suggestions about things people can do to help manage their mood and substance use.
For more information: See the booklet, visit the NDARC website, or call (02) 9385 0333
Benchmarking: A Guide for the NSW Non-Government Drug and Alcohol Sector
Network of Alcohol & Other Drugs Agencies (NADA)
Benchmarking is one of a number of tools that an organisation can use to monitor and evaluate how well it is performing, and to drive continuous improvement in quality and outcomes.
Benchmarking is primarily about comparison; comparing what a service is doing or how it is doing it with how it has performed in the past, with how other services are performing or with industry performance measures.
For more information: See Guide, email admin@nada.org.au, or call (02) 9698 8669
Overdose - Factsheet
Australian Drug Foundation (ADF)
A factsheet about overdose that includes information about what is an overdose, why people overdose, what are the signs and symptoms and what to do if someone overdoses.
For more information: See factsheet, or visit the ADF website
Addressing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
This new resource reviews alcohol screening tools and interventions for use with pregnant women and women of childbearing age to prevent fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Also, it outlines methods for identifying individuals with FASD and modifying treatment accordingly.
For more information: Download the resource, or see the SAMHSA website
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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 2014 will be Tour C on 16 July 2014.
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
June - July 2014 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 June - July 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
Understanding Problem Gambling: Including Consumer Perspectives
ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS)
This workshop for community sector workers is aimed at increasing awareness of problem gambling in the community, increasing knowledge about how to identify those in your existing/future clients who may need your support, and increasing skills in responding to this hidden public health issue such as the increasing marketing of sports betting to young people through their smart phones.
Date: 3 July 2014
Time: 9am – 12pm
Venue: ACTCOSS meeting room, 1/6 Gritten St, Weston
Cost: Free
For more information or to register: Visit the Eventbrite website, email actcoss@actcoss.org.au, or call (02) 6202 7200
The Effects of Racism within the Workplace
ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS)
This presentation is an opportunity to learn how to identify and respond to racism within the workplace and its impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community sector workers.
Date: 22 July 2014
Time: 9:30am – 11:30am
Venue: Level 1 meeting room, Weston Community Hub, 1/6 Gritten St, Weston
Cost: Free
For more information or to register: Visit the Eventbrite website, email actcoss@actcoss.org.au, or call (02) 6202 7200
Tobacco Training for Health Professionals
Cancer Council ACT (CCACT)
To increase the capacity of health and education professionals to engage clients in quitting smoking CCACT offers comprehensive training in smoking cessation which can be tailored to organisations and client groups.
For more information: See the information sheet, or visit the CCACT website
Also see ACT ATOD Qualification Strategy detailed in the ATODA News section
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Conferences and Symposiums
20th International AIDS Conference
The International AIDS Conference is the premier gathering for those working in the field of HIV, as well as policy makers, persons living with HIV and other individuals committed to ending the pandemic. It is a chance to assess where we are, evaluate recent scientific developments and lessons learnt, and collectively chart a course forward.
Date: 20 - 25 July 2014
Cost: Regular delegate USD 1150, Student USD 340
Venue: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), Melbourne
For more information: Visit the AIDS Conference website, see the invitation program, or call (03) 8527 9301
2014 Australian Winter School Conference
Lives Lived Well
The aim of this year’s conference is to consider how the alcohol and other drugs sector has and is responding to past and emerging challenges, to identify new opportunities and to reflect collectively on how the sector can evolve to maximise benefits not only for our clients, but ultimately the communities in which we work and live.
Date: 23 -25 July 2014
Cost: Before 13 June: Full delegate $495, Day delegate and student $295; After 13 June: Full delegate $595, Day delegate and student $350
Venue: Rydges South Bank, Brisbane
For more information: Visit the Conference website, see the Program, email Sharon.broadley@liveslivedwell.org.au, or call (07) 3834 0204
ACTCOSS Conference 2014
ACT Council of Social Service Inc. (ACTCOSS), University of Canberra
This year, the ACT Council of Social Service Inc. convenes its biennial conference. Our theme is 'Designing Social Change: Beyond Talk, Taking Action'.
Date: 7 – 8 August 2014
Cost: Before 30 June: ACTCOSS Member or UC staff/student 1 day $130, 2 days $260; Non-member 1 day $145, 2 days $290. From 1 July: ACTCOSS Member or UC staff/student 1 day $160, 2 days $320; Non-member 1 day $180, 2 days $360
Venue: Ann Harding Conference Centre, University of Canberra, Bruce
For more information: Visit the Eventbrite website, visit the ACTCOSS website, email conference@actcoss.org.au, or call (02) 6202 7200
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Youth, Mental Health and Allied Sectors
Low Cost Mental Health First Aid Training
Volunteering ACT
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help provided to a person who is developing a mental health problem, or who is in a mental health crisis, until appropriate professional treatment is received or the crisis resolves. The MHFA course teaches people strategies to assist someone who is developing a mental health problem or is in a mental health crisis.
Date: 12 - 13 July 2014
Time: 9am – 4pm
Venue: Volunteering ACT Training Room, City Walk, Canberra City
Cost: $95
RSVP: by 4 July 2014
For more information: email connections@volunteeringact.org.au, or call (02) 6251 4060
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Consumer Participation
Launch of Karralika Programs Consumer Participation and Engagement Strategy
Karralika Programs Inc.
Karralika Programs Inc. has announced the launch of their Consumer Participation and Engagement Strategy which documents their commitment to, and the processes for, consumer participation and engagement across their services and programs.
For more information: See the Consumer Participation and Engagement Strategy
Consumer Bites
Health Care Consumers’ Association
The Consumer Bites is the Health Care Consumers’ Association newsletter. It provides information about current projects, local and national health issues, local events and the latest research developments.
For more information: See the May 27 issue
Consumer Representative Training Course
Health Care Consumers’ Association (HCCA)
This course provides people with the opportunity to nominate as a Consumer Representative on a health service committee and make a valuable contribution to improve health services. Participants will learn more about the ACT Health System from a consumer perspective and how to use this knowledge to make effective system change.
Date: 26 July & 2 August 2014
Time: 10am - 3pm
Venue: HCCA Meeting Room, ACT Sports House, 100 Maitland St, Hackett
Cost: Free
For more information and to register: email sandraavila@hcca.org.au, or call (02) 6230 7800
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ACT Media
This section includes ATOD related media from or about the ACT
Alcohol-related news
Classy campaign a winner for safe drinking
Canberra Times, 27 May 2014
A radical social media campaign aimed at young adults about "how to drink properly" has sponsors excited that the message about responsible alcohol consumption may finally be getting through.
For more information: See the article
Father of one-punch victim Thomas Kelly “horrified” by Civic assault
Canberra Times, 21 May 2014
The father of fatal one-punch assault victim Thomas Kelly has been ''horrified'' by last month's cowardly hit outside a Civic nightclub, and says the offender would never have lashed out if he understood what it could put the victim's family through.
For more information: See the article
Man had bruised brain after ‘king hit’
Canberra Times, 21 May 2014
A Page man who allegedly king hit a diner in the food court of Westfield Belconnen told a security guard the punch had been "revenge", a court has heard.
For more information: See the article
Violence not enough to deter Canberra’s young people from a night out
Canberra Times, 21 May 2014
Canberra's emergency rooms are being flooded with young revellers who have been injured as a result of too much alcohol, but they say the risk of being hurt or assaulted isn't enough to deter them from a night out on the drink.
For more information: See the article
Academy nightclub owner questions police tactics in hunt for king-hit attacker
Canberra Times, 21 May 2014
A Civic nightclub owner has described a single punch assault outside his venue as "sickening” and "brutal”, while expressing surprise at how long it took police to go public.
For more information: See the article
Police defend silence on king-hit outside Civic nightclub
Canberra Times, 20 May 2014
ACT Policing has defended the decision to wait nearly a month to publicise a king-hit outside the Academy Nightclub in Civic on April 21, which left a man hospitalised with a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain.
For more information: See the article
New face of alcohol promotion defies advertising restrictions
The Conversation, 19 May 2014
Nicholas Carah, Lecturer in Communication at University of Queensland
Sven Brodmerkel, Assistant Professor for Integrated Marketing Communications, Bond University
Facebook is a key player in the development of “native”, targeted and participatory forms of branding. Where once advertising was distinguishable from editorial content, brands are increasingly integrated into the everyday flows of content we interact with online.
For more information: See the article
Man assaulted outside Academy Nightclub in Civic
Canberra Times, 19 May 2014
A man has suffered a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain after being assaulted outside the Academy Nightclub in Civic, police say.
For more information: See the article
New penalties for dangerous driving
ACT Government, 15 May 2014
Attorney-General, Simon Corbell, today introduced legislation into the Legislative Assembly to target high-risk dangerous driving and offer further protection to vulnerable road users.
For more information: See the media release
And now the bad news: red wine is not great for health after all
The Conversation, 13 May 2014
Tim Crowe, Associate Professor in Nutrition, Deakin University
Nutrition research often loses sight of the wood for the trees by focusing on a single component of food. The latest example of this comes from a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine that shows the much-hyped resveratrol may not be as super as previously touted.
For more information: See the article
Call for drinking age to be raised to 21
Canberra Times, 12 May 2014
Pressure is mounting for Australian governments to raise the legal drinking age to 21 to protect the health of young people whose brains are still vulnerable to the toxicity of alcohol at 18, leading health experts say.
For more information: See the article
Lift the drinking age, says expert
Canberra Times, 12 May 2014
Australia's legal drinking age should be raised to 21, according to an expert who says there is mounting evidence the move would dramatically reduce alcohol-related harm among young people.
For more information: See the article
Drug-related news
Suspected sentence for Caldwell cannabis grower
Canberra Times, 19 June 2014
An Iranian refugee who cultivated 29 cannabis plants at a south-side house to pay off debts has avoided time behind bars.
For more information: See the article
Suspected Canberra drug trafficker Kenji Peter Aoki released on bail
Canberra Times, 18 June 2014
A suspected Canberra drug trafficker accused of holding a gun to the head of one witness and a knife to the neck of another has walked free on bail with a $20,000 surety.
For more information: See the article
Ammunition, drugs seized in Chifley police search
Canberra Times, 17 June 2014
Police seized ammunition and what they believe to be drugs when they searched a Chifley unit, they say.
For more information: See the article
Canberra man jailed over drug offences, violent attack
ABC News, 12 June 2014
A Canberra man has been sentenced to almost 13 years' jail for the ACT's biggest cocaine haul and a violent assault on his partner.
For more information: See the media release
Why shouldn’t addiction be a defence to low-level crime?
The Conversation, 12 June 2014
Jeanette Kennett, Professor of Philosophy, Macquarie University
In today’s article in our series Biology and Blame, Jeanette Kennett considers an inconsistency in the law’s approach to compulsion – addicts are responsible but others compelled to harmful behaviours are not.
For more information: See the article
Drug-testing should be introduced for welfare recipients and politicians, says Coalition MP George Christensen
ABC News, 2 June 2014
A Federal Government backbencher says he would be happy to face random drug tests if the measure was put in place for welfare recipients and taxpayer-funded employees.
For more information: See the article
Alleged drug trafficker faces more charges after Canberra syndicate bust
Canberra Times, 27 May 2014
A 28-year-old man arrested during police raids to dismantle a major drug syndicate in Canberra last week is facing more charges.
For more information: See the article
Canberra drug syndicate dismantled after raids: police
Canberra Times, 24 May 2014
Police have simultaneously raided 10 properties, in an operation they say dismantled a major Canberra drug syndicate.
For more information: See the article
Police seize synthetic cannabis worth $25k in Canberra raids
Canberra Times, 19 May 2014
Police seized about $25,000 worth of synthetic cannabis during raids on three retail outlets across Canberra.
For more information: See the article
Broad reductions in crime, despite increase in drug offences
Canberra Times, 16 May 2014
A rise in drug offences has marred an otherwise marked reduction in reported crime across the board in the ACT, a new report shows.
For more information: See the article
Cash rewards as police, ACT government crack down on illegal guns
Canberra Times, 15 May 2014
Pump-action shotguns, high-powered air rifles and 3500 rounds of ammunition were among weapons police seized during a six-month crackdown aimed at putting a dent in the number of illicit guns in the capital. Police also confiscated speed, steroids, laptops, tools and a stolen car during the searches.
For more information: See the article
Five arrested over drug supply into Canberra prison
Canberra Times, 14 May 2014
Drugs have been seized from Canberra’s prison as police crack down on the supply of drugs into the facility.
For more information: See the article
Truck driver arrested for drug offences
Canberra Times, 12 May 2014
A 57-year-old truck driver was arrested at an inspection station near Goulburn after cash and drugs were allegedly found in his vehicle.
For more information: See the article
Woman cried blood after savage beating by drug trafficker, court told
Canberra Times, 9 May 2014
A drug trafficker caught in the ACT's biggest seizure of cocaine beat his partner so savagely that she cried blood when he eventually let her go to hospital, a court has heard.
For more information: See the article
Tobacco-related news
Health and Community Leaders Tackle Tobacco and Disadvantage
ATODA – Under 10% - Media Release, 30 May 2014
“Health and community services are ideal settings and partners in reducing smoking rates in disadvantaged groups and ACT services are leading the charge… 18 services are engaged in the Under 10% Project… These ACT leaders are tackling tobacco and disadvantage by reviewing smoke-free policies, changing their practices to de-normalise smoking, supporting staff to quit and training staff to build their confidence in delivering smoking cessation advice and referrals.”
For more information: See the media release
Heart disease on the rise in young people
Canberra Times, 13 June 2014
The number of young people admitted to hospital with heart disease and stroke has jumped by 30 per cent in the past 10 years, with experts warning obesity and binge smoking are to blame.
For more information: See the article
Canberra Hospitals going completely smoke free
Citynews, 3 June 2014
The ACT’s Chief Health Officer has announced the ACT’s hospital campuses will be completely smoke free from September.
For more information: See the article
Campaign Launched on World No Tobacco Day
Australian Government, 31 May 2014
The Australian Government has launched a new phase of the National Tobacco Campaign to coincide with World No Tobacco Day.
For more information: See the media release
ACT scoops tobacco reform award
Canberra Times, 23 May 2014
The ACT has been recognised for its tough stand on tobacco reform, with the territory winning a national award for efforts to encourage people to butt out.
For more information: See the article
Other news
Territory seeks more Indigenous recruits
Canberra Times, 17 June 2014
The ACT government needs to promote the diversity of employment opportunities available to attract more Indigenous Australians to the local public service, according to the director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Robyn Forester.
For more information: See the article
Big things expected from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected body as funding cuts hit
Canberra Times, 17 June 2014
Supporting the community in the wake of cuts and setbacks to a range of important local services will be at the top of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body’s agenda when a new board is elected next month.
For more information: See the article
Australian jail populations rise as full-time imprisonment rates soar, ABS figures show
Canberra Times, 17 June 2014
Australian jail populations have risen sharply in the past year, with the number of full-time prisoners jumping 9 per cent, Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures show.
For more information: See the article
Better Mental Health Care in Australia
Australian Government, 17 June 2014
The Australian Government is bolstering mental health services in Australia, with a $6.5 million initiative to train primary health practitioners in the use of e-mental health therapies and associated technologies.
For more information: See the media release
Katy Gallagher troubled by rapid rise in visits to emergency department
Canberra Times, 11 June 2014
Hospital emergency department visits in Canberra have surged 25 per cent in six years, outstripping population growth and raising concerns about the strain on the territory's hospitals.
For more information: See the article
14 in the running for the ACT’s Indigenous elected body
CityNews, 5 June 2014
ACT Electoral Commissioner Phil Green has announced the 14 candidates for seven positions on the ACT’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body.
For more information: See the article
ACT to transition 5,000 people with disabilities onto NDIS from July 1
ABC News, 5 June 2014
Recent school leavers, young children and 64-year-olds will be the first groups to join the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in the ACT.
For more information: See the article
National Indigenous Health Plan to Focus on Outcomes
Australian Government, 30 May 2014
The Australian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health as a priority.
For more information: See the media release
Here’s the proof: Australians prefer the facts
Canberra Times, 29 May 2014
What’s the difference between a politician and a scientist? Well, in Australia at least, the public thinks scientists are way more trustworthy than their elected representatives. At least five times more trustworthy.
For more information: See the article
Hospital emergency department’s waiting times steadily improving
Canberra Times, 28 May 2014
Emergency department waiting times at Canberra's public hospitals continue to fall short of the national average, but a new report indicates there are gradual improvements in patients being seen within benchmarked times.
For more information: See the article
Strong turn out for National Sorry Day walk in Canberra
ABC News, 23 May 2014
Hundreds of people have taken part in the National Sorry Day Bridge Walk in Canberra.
For more information: See the article
Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Closing The Gap
Australian Government, 22 May 2014
Assistant Minister for Health Fiona Nash has met with Indigenous health stakeholders, including the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation and state and territory peak bodies.
For more information: See the article
Rehabilitation hit by reduced jail visitation: prison rights group
Canberra Times, 20 May 2014
A reduction in the number of days inmates at Canberra jail can receive visitors could impact on rehabilitation, a prisoners' rights group says.
For more information: See the article
ACT crime rate down with fall in assaults, car theft and robberies
Canberra Times, 16 May 2014
The latest annual crime data for the ACT shows a drop in most criminal offences.
For more information: See the article
Treatment of women at the prison improving
CityNews, 16 May 2014
The Human Rights Commissioner has released a report on the treatment of women at the Maconochie Centre and found things are improving, but there does remain more work to do.
For more information: See the article
Research group targets end to all-too-common violence against women
Canberra Times, 16 May 2014
The devastating impacts of violence against women will be the focus of a new research body that aims to provide answers on how Australia can bring it to an end.
For more information: See the article
Audit on women in prison makes 61 recommendations
Canberra Times, 15 May 2014
An investigation into the humane treatment of women in Canberra's prison has raised concerns about the mental healthcare afforded to two detainees and the lack of employment opportunities.
For more information: See the article
Secure mental health facility to be given priority
ACT Government, 15 May 2014
A proposed new secure mental health facility in Canberra's south will be given priority in the planning process through a new bill introduced.
For more information: See the media release
Safeguards for people with disability under NDIS
ACT Government, 15 May 2014
The ACT will become the first jurisdiction to legislate safeguards and standards for disability service providers under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) under amendments introduced to the Legislative Assembly.
For more information: See the media release
Crime continues to drop
CityNews, 15 May 2014
“The 2014 ACT Criminal Justice Statistical Profile was tabled in the Legislative Assembly and revealed a considerable drop from 2012-13 to 2013”
For more information: See the article
Further decreases in crime in the ACT
ACT Government, 15 May 2014
Attorney-General, Simon Corbell, has welcomed new figures showing further decreases in property and personal crimes in the ACT.
For more information: See the media release
Aboriginal youth in ACT 10 times more likely to be put in detention
Canberra Times, 9 May 2014
Young Aboriginal Canberrans are vastly more likely to be put in detention or under community-based supervision than other children their own age.
For more information: See the article
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