ACT ATOD Sector eBulletin - September 2011
ATODA eBulletin - www.atoda.org.au

News from the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT

Nominations for the Annual ACT ATOD Awards Now Open
Do you know someone deserving acknowledgement who, during the course of their careers, have made outstanding contributions: to improving the health and well-being of people affected by alcohol, tobacco and other drugs issues; to reducing alcohol, tobacco and other drug related harm; and towards developing the alcohol, tobacco and other drug profession?
 
Get nominating for the 3rd annual ACT ATOD Awards now!
 
The Awards aim to recognise, promote and reward outstanding practice in the ATOD field in the ACT. The Awards will be kindly presented by Chief Minister Katy Gallagher MLA and are generously sponsored by the ACT Government Health Directorate, with the ceremony scheduled for 16 December (invitation available shortly). 

The 2011 Nomination Package and further information is now available from http://www2.atoda.org.au/activities/awards/.
 
ACT ATOD Services Directory

The ACT ATOD Services Directory aims to support workers to make referrals to ATOD services, increase cross- and intra-sectoral knowledge and foster collaborations. It also aims to better communicate the diverse range of services and programs in the Sector. 

Visit http://www.atoda.org.au/ to view the Directory.

ACT Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Minimum Qualification Strategy (MQS)
The ACT is currently in the process of implementing the ACT ATOD Minimum Qualification Strategy (ACT ATOD MQS) for the ATOD sector, which aims to ensure the development and maintenance of a competent and professional workforce. Upcoming Training Dates for registered participants include:
  • 5 - 7 September
  • 17 - 19 October
  • 7 - 9 November. 
For more information visit http://www2.atoda.org.au/projects/act-atod-minimum-qualification-strategy-project/.
 
Workplace Tobacco Management Project
The Workplace Tobacco Management Project is a collaborative initiative which aims to increase awareness, and support the implementation, of workplace tobacco management policies and reduce the impact of smoking behaviours for the staff in nine programs within the mental health, ATOD, and youth sectors. A webpage to communicate information regarding the Project is currently under development and will be available at www.atoda.org.au shortly.
 
Other ATODA news and activities are included throughout the eBulletin. 

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Drug Policies and Programs in the Alexander Maconochie Centre (including NSP consultations)

Have your say on implementing an NSP in the AMC - Consultations close 8 September 2011

For the latest information about the establishment of a needle and syringe program in the Alexander Maconochie Centre visit the ATODA website. The NSP webpage contains information about the Moore Report and the Health Directorate Consultations closing on 8 September.
Also included:
  • Background and Rationale for a Prison Based NSP
  • Evidence of Effectiveness and Safety
  • ATODA Budget Submission 2011/12
  • Recent Media
ATODA’s Submission
ATODA will be making a submission – for further information contact Carrie Fowlie, Executive Officer, on carrie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.

New Health Minister Blog
Chief Minister Gallagher has launched her new blog:
“I believe that a good government is an open and accessible government. I will be blogging on a range of issues that I deal with as Chief Minister, as Minister for Health and Industrial Relations, and as a local member representing the people of Molonglo.”
She has a page regarding consulting on prison health services, which can be accessed from: http://www.katygallagher.net/?p=363
 
What can be done to reduce hepatitis C in Australian prisons?
Hepatitis Australia and over 20 other public health bodies have issued a Consensus Statement which calls on Australian governments to reduce the spread of hepatitis C in prisons. The Statement explains ‘Hepatitis C, which is both preventable and treatable, is endemic among Australian prisoners…As the health status of prisoners moves with them between prison and their home and community, addressing, or neglecting, their health care needs, has a substantial impact for better or worse on the health of the general community’. It calls on Australian governments to ‘provide sufficient funding to allow comprehensive interventions for the prevention, treatment and harm reduction and aftercare of hepatitis C to be expanded to meet the personal and public health needs of prisoners and all who work in custodial settings, their families and the community’.
Hepatitis Australia et al. 2011, Consensus statement: addressing hepatitis C in Australian custodial settings, Hepatitis Australia, Canberra, http://www.hepatitisaustralia.com/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/2123/Prisons-consensus-statement.pdf.



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Working With Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Bill 2010 - FInal consultation

Final ACT Government Consultation – closes 9 September 2011
 
The Community Services Directorate has announced that it will be conducting a final round of consultations for the Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Bill 2010 (WWVPCS) from 1 August – 9 September 2011. The consultation seeks views on the draft:
·       Risk Assessment Guidelines and Application Form
·       Risk Management Assessment Tool
·       Government Amendments to the Bill
·       Regulations.
 
Further information
An Information Book, developed by the Community Services Directorate, is available and provides answers to questions raised by stakeholders to date.
Consultation documents can be downloaded from: www.dhcs.act.gov.au/home/publications/wwvpc. Please contact Jean Thomson, Policy Manager, Community Services Directorate on (02) 6205 8329 or workingwithvulnerablepeople@act.gov.aufor further information. The Bill is available from the ACT Legislation Register at www.legislation.act.gov.au
 
ATODA’s submission
ATODA will be making a submission to this round of consultations - please contact Carrie Fowlie on carrie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.



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Expanding Naloxone Availability in the ACT

Broad support continues to build for action, and a program is being designed, to expand the availability of naloxone (Narcan ®) in the ACT. The purpose of expanding naloxone availability is to further reduce and prevent death, disability, and injury from opioid overdoses through provision of training and resources to opioid users and their friends and family members who could be potential overdose witnesses.
 
Expanding Naloxone Availability Question & Answer
This Q & A was developed by Professor Simon Lenton, National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University (s.lenton@curtin.edu.au), as a member of, and for use by, the Expanding Naloxone Availability in the ACT (ENAACT) Committee. It is hoped that this document will raise awareness and support stakeholder engagement in this work.  Read it here: http://www2.atoda.org.au/wp-content/uploads/ENAACT-Expanding-Naloxone-Availability-QA-July-2011.pdf
 
Naloxone Program, Junkmail 14, AIVL
by Nicole Wiggins, Manager, Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy (CAHMA)
http://www.aivl.org.au/database/sites/default/files/Junkmail%20Issue%2014.pdf
 
Responsible management and use of a personal take-home naloxone supply: A pilot project
The results of this project suggest that Scottish drug users can be trained to identify and respond to an opiate overdose utilizing basic life support and naloxone administration skills similar to their counterparts from other parts of the world. Moreover these results suggest that a majority of opiate users can responsibly manage their own personal take-home naloxone supply when trained appropriately.
 
McAuley, A George, L, Woods, M & Louttit, D 2010, ‘Responsible management and use of a personal take-home naloxone supply: A pilot project’, Drugs: Education, Prevention, and Policy Jul 2010, Vol. 17, No. 4: 388–399.



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Substance Misuse Service Delivery Grants Fund

Discussion Paper Available for Comment
Department of Health and Ageing
Following a review of administrative arrangements in the Department of Health and Ageing portfolio, the Australian Government has established a Substance Misuse Service Delivery Grants Fund (the Fund).  The Fund consolidates activities from a number of existing programs, and provides a flexible funding pool for services that treat substance misuse, effective from 1 July 2011, with administrative arrangements for future grants to be developed during 2011-12.  To provide the basis for consultation with the broad range of stakeholders with an interest in the Fund, the Department of Health and Ageing (the Department) has developed a Discussion Paper on the Fund. 

The purpose of the consultation is twofold:
  • to communicate with stakeholders about the benefits of program consolidation, the Fund objectives and priorities, the process for access to the Funds; and
  • to provide the opportunity for stakeholder input, prior to the public release of the Fund Guidelines later this year.
In particular, the Department is interested in receiving feedback about the clarity of the Fund’s objectives and priorities. Interested parties are invited to review the Discussion Paper and provide feedback directly to the Department. The Discussion Paper and further information about the Fund arrangements are available on the Department’s website: 
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/budget2011-flexfund-subsmisuse-serv06.htm.

Comments on the Discussion Paper and / or questions in relation to the Fund should be directed to the dedicated mailbox, SMSDGF@health.gov.au by 8 September 2011.

ATODA Submission to the Discussion Paper
ATODA will be contributing a submissions to the Substance Misuse Service Delivery Grants Fund discussion paper. To contribute to this submission or discuss your thoughts please contact Carrie Fowlie, Executive Officer, ATODA on (02) 6255 4070 or carrie@atoda.org.au.

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New ACT Youth Drug and Alcohol Court

The new Youth Drug and Alcohol Court (YDAC) is a program of the Children’s Court concerned with reducing drug and / or alcohol related criminal activity by children and young people through judicial and therapeutic interventions that are designed to reduce or manage drug and / or alcohol use.  It provides a sentencing process that aims to divert young offenders from custody by addressing the issues related to drug and alcohol offending in a holistic way. 
 
It is anticipated that the YDAC Program will proceed on a trial basis for a period of 2 years, and that an evaluation will be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the program.  The Practice Direction takes effect from 1 September 2011.
 
For further information about YDAC please contact Adam Bode at the Office of Children Youth and Family Services, Community Services Directorate on adam.bode@act.gov.au.
 
For information about ATOD treatment and the courts contact the Court Drug and Alcohol Assessment Service (CADAS) call (02) 6207 9977 or visit their Directory profile http://www2.atoda.org.au/wp-content/uploads/ADP.pdf
 
How effective are drug courts in reducing substance abuse and crime?
A five-year study in the United States ‘compared participants in 23 drug courts in seven states to similar defendants who went through conventional case processing’. It found that ‘drug court participants were one-third less likely to report using drugs 18 months after their enrollment in the program. And they were responsible for less than half as many criminal acts as the comparison group after 18 months. Largely because of these reductions in criminal behaviour, drug courts ended up saving an estimated $5,680 per participant’.
Center for Court Innovation Projects 2011, The Multi-Site Adult Drug Court evaluation, Center for Court Innovation Projects, viewed 4 August 2011, http://www.courtinnovation.org/multi-site-adult-drug-court-evaluation.

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New ACT Smoking in Cars with Children (Prohibition) Bill 2011

The new ACT Smoking in Cars with Children (Prohibition) Bill 2011 was tabled in the ACT Legislative Assembly on 24 August by Health Minister Gallagher, which can be found at www.legislation.act.gov.au/b/db_42926/default.asp
 
If you smoke in cars with kids you’ll cough up a fine
24 August 2011, Media Release,
ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher
http://www.katygallagher.net/?p=326
 
666 Radio Interview
Listen to the radio interview of Chief Minister Katy Gallagher with Ross Solly on ABC Breakfast at http://blogs.abc.net.au/canberra/2011/08/new-fines-for-people-who-smoke-in-cars-with-kids.html
 
Banning Smoking in Cars with Children
Smokers’ homes, indoor workplaces (including bars and other hospitality industry worksites), and the confined spaces of public transport are where prolonged, confined and often heavy exposure to second hand smoke most occurs…. Cars represent an intriguing and symbolically important interface between public and private worlds. While the interior of cars might be considered by many to be another form of ‘private’ space, the law has long colonised cars as effectively being public spaces by subjecting their occupants to legal requirements regarding seatbelts, car standards, driving conduct and mobile phone use designed to protect both public safety (harm to others) and that of occupants (via the benevolent paternalism inherent in seat belt legislation). However, these restrictions are all intended to prevent or reduce harm from injury while restrictions on smoking in cars address health consequences arising from chronic exposure, traditionally invoking less urgent responses from governments.
 
Freeman, B. Chapman, S and Storey, P 2008, ‘Banning smoking in cars carrying children: an analytical history of a public health advocacy campaign’ Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health Vol 32 No 1. Viewed 31 August 2011
http://tobacco.health.usyd.edu.au/assets/pdfs/publications/cars.pdf

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Pay Equity Case

Update on Equal Pay Case
ACT Council of Social Service
On 16 May 2001 Fair Work Australia issued a decision that found remuneration in the SACS industry is not equal for men and women workers for work of equal or comparable value. However, they did not determine what the extent of this unequal remuneration is, or what the remedy should be. Further submissions have now been put to Fair Work Australia in relation to the industry and award rates of pay.
For further information visit http://www.actcoss.org.au/.

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Health Reform Update

Council of Australian Governments Meeting – Discussions regarding mental health reform
Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Communique
As health reform progresses, there remains some disclarity regarding how support for people experiencing ATOD issues fit amongst the range of new or pending initiatives. However, at the COAG meeting in Canberra on 19 August, it was agreed to commence work on the development of a National Partnership Agreement on Mental Health which would focus on: stable accommodation and support; and the presentation, admission and discharge planning in major hospitals and emergency departments, and related support services. By addressing priority service gaps in Australia's mental health system the National Partnership will help move Australia's mental health system away from crisis-driven activity towards prevention, early intervention and care in the community.
 
COAG also agreed to commence work on a Ten Year Roadmap for National Mental Health Reform (the Roadmap) that will set out the vision, priorities, and main steps in achieving this vision. The proposed National Partnership and the Roadmap will be considered by COAG before the end of 2011.
To view the full communiqué visit http://www.coag.gov.au/coag_meeting_outcomes/2011-08-19/index.cfm.
 
To view the related media release visit http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr11-mb-mb098.htm.
 
New CEO for Preventive Health Agency
Mark Butler MP: Minister for Mental Health and Ageing
23 August 2011
Australia’s focus on preventing illness and promoting better health and wellbeing has received a boost with the appointment of a permanent Chief Executive Officer to the Australian National Preventive Health Agency (ANPHA).  Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler today announced the appointment of Ms Louise Sylvan as CEO of ANPHA, which is a major element of the Government’s national health reform agenda.

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News from the ACT ATOD Workers Group

The ACT ATOD Workers Group is involved in the development, implementation, coordination, evaluation and promotion of key sector support activities for the ACT alcohol, tobacco and other drug sector in the ACT.

Activities being progressed by the Group include:
  • Updating the ACT ATOD Services Directory;
  • Contributing to the ATODA ACT Government Budget Submission;
  • Coordinating Cannabis Training (see the training and professional development section).


News from the ACT ATOD Executive Directors' Group

The ACT ATOD Executive Directors Group met in August to discuss a range of sector priorities, including:
  • Meeting with Ms Katrina Brascher, Executive Director, Mental Health, Justice Health and Alcohol & Drug Services
  • Discussions of enhancing northside ATOD service provision including public dosing and NSP coverage
  • Agreeing to a revised terms of reference and six month workplan
  • ACT Budget 2012/13 sector priorities
  • Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Bill 2010
  • Participating in the proposed expanded availability of naloxone program.


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Sector Development, Activities and Events

16th Annual Remembrance Ceremony for Those Who Lose Their Lives to Illicit Drugs
Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform
Each year in spring in Canberra we gather together to remember those who have lost their lives to illicit drugs at a Remembrance Ceremony organised by Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform (http://www.ffdlr.org.au/memorial/memorial.htm) at Weston Park. It is called Remembrance Ceremony ‘for those who lose their lives to illicit drugs’ deliberately. Details for this year’s ceremony are:
Time: 12.30pm
Date: Monday 17 October 2011
Location: Weston Park, Yarralumla ACT
Details: Refreshments will be served following the ceremony.
 
Older Opiate Users and Hepatitis Forum
Australian Illicit and Injecting Drug Users League (AIVL)
A recording of the recent AIVL forum on older opiate users and hepatitis is now available from http://aivl.org.au/?p=653#p=653.
 
New Edition of Direct News
DIRECTIONS ACT
The Winter edition of DIRECTIONS ACT Newsletter is now available, including articles focused on young people; Drug Action Week and the Healthy Food Healthy Me Program. To download the newsletter visit http://www.directionsact.com/newsletters.
 
Model Alcohol Health Warning Labels
Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Foundation (AERF)
Leading health experts are urging the Federal Government to make new alcohol health warning labels mandatory to help reduce the harms caused by alcohol.
The labels and position, unveiled today by the AER Foundation, include messages that drinking any alcohol can harm unborn babies, damage young developing brains and increase the risk of cancer.
For more information visit http://www.aerf.com.au/home.aspx.
 
New Gugan Gulwan Referral Form
Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation

Gugan Gulwan, a youth service and drop-in centre for Aboriginal young people, has an updated referral form. This can be utilised for referral to a range of programs including ATOD support services.
Download Word format http://www.gugan-gulwan.com.au/download/Gugan_Referral_Form.doc
Download PDF format http://www.gugan-gulwan.com.au/download/Gugan_Referral_Form.pdf
 
Last Call for Submissions to CONTACT Directory 2012
Citizen’s Advice Bureau ACT
The CONTACT Directory of Canberra's community's services and groups for 2012, is close to publication. Inclusion in the CONTACT Directory is free of charge and is a vital link for community sector agencies and all who need to make contact with them. The final date to enter changes in the Directory prior to printing is COB Friday, 9 September 2011.
To check current details go to www.citizensadvice.org.au. Email database@citizensadvice.org.auor phone Susan or Aimee on 6257 1687 to advise on new or closed programs, changes to existing service details or for any further information.

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Training and Professional Development in the ACT

August - September 2011 Training and Professional Development Calendar
Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT, Mental Health Community Coalition ACT and the Youth Coalition of the ACT
The ACT Training and Professional Development Calendar is collates training and professional development opportunities for workers in the alcohol and other drug, youth, mental health, family support and community sectors.
Download the training calendar at http://www2.atoda.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Aug_Sep_2011_TPDC.pdf.
To include your training in the calendar for October - November 2011, email katrina@youthcoalition.net or call the Youth Coalition on (02) 6247 3540. Please submit your training details for this calendar by COB Monday 12 September 2011.
 
ACT Comorbidity Bus Tours
Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT, 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 alcohol, tobacco and other drug 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.
Upcoming tour dates:
Tour A - Wednesday 14 September 2011
Tour B - Wednesday 28 September 2011
Tour C - Wednesday 12 October 2011
Cost: Ranges from $50 - $70.
Registration: Contact Katrina on (02) 6247 3540 or katrina@youthcoalition.netto discuss eligibility and to obtain a registration form.
 
Cannabis Workshop
National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre and ATODA
Training on core cannabis knowledge and the Cannabis Treatment Guidelines will be held as part of Mental Health Week 2011.
Time: 9.30am – 3.30pm
Date: Friday 14 October 2011
Cost: Free
Registration: Numbers are limited. Contact Amanda Bode on amanda@atoda.org.auor (02) 6255 4070.
To download the workshop flyer visit http://www2.atoda.org.au/2011/08/cannabis-workshop/.
 
Smoking Cessation Training Course for ACT Workplaces
Quit Fresh Start and ACT Government
TheACT Government, Health Directorate is sponsoring a two day Quit Educator's Training course. Delivered by Quit Victoria, this training is designed for those wishing to deliver the Quit Fresh Start program and to develop knowledge and skills in the area of smoking cessation.
This training aims to support smoking cessation programs in workplaces and targets:
-       workplace representatives wanting to start programs in their own workplace; and
-       service providers wanting to deliver services in workplaces for employees.
Dates: 27 – 28 September 2011.
For more information contact Patricia Byrne, Health Promotion Branch, Health Directorate on (02) 6205 7382 or email Patricia.Byrne@act.gov.au.
 
ACT Human Rights Commission Training Calendar
ACT Human Rights Commission
The ACT Human Rights Commission Training Calendar for September - November 2011 is now available. Training includes Disability Discrimination, Introduction to Health Records and Privacy, Human Rights for ACT Public Authorities, Human Rights for the Community Sector, Sexual Harassment and Discriminatory Bullying, and Workplace Contact Officer Training.
Download the training calendar at http://www.hrc.act.gov.au/content.php/category.view/id/77.
 
Quality Improvement Training
Mental Health Community Coalition of the ACT
MHCC ACT is piloting 2 Quality Improvement themed half-day training courses beginning in September.
Quality Improvement I - Concepts and Culture
Date: 15 September and 20 October
Quality Improvement II - Self Assessment and Planning for Improvement
Date: 29 September and 17 November
For more information or to register, please contact MHCC ACT on (02) 6249 7756 or at Margaret.charlton@mhccact.org.au. Alternatively the forms can be downloaded from www.mhccact.org.au.



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Interstate Conferences and Symposiums

2011 National Drug Trends Conference
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre
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 2011 findings. 


Date: Monday 17 October 2011
Venue: National Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour, Sydney
Cost: $200
For more information visit http://www.med.unsw.edu.au/NDARCWeb.nsf/page/Conference

Oceania Tobacco Control Conference 2011
Cancer Council Australia 

This conference is themed ‘Burying the habit: Moving to a tobacco free future’. A number of workshops will also be held on Monday 17 October 2011, preceding the conference.  


Date: 18 – 20 October 2011 

Venue: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre 

Cost: $595
For more information visit http://www.oceaniatc2011.org/.

International Federation of Non-Government Organisations (For the Prevention of Drug and Substance Abuse) Conference
Australian National Council on Drugs co-hosted by PEMADAM
This conference aims to provide a forum for decision makers and professionals to gain an understanding of NGO issues and needs in relation to addressing alcohol and other drug use and associated harm, with a particular focus on the Asian and Pacific regions.
Date: 8 – 11 November 2011 

Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Kuala Lumpur 

Cost: Varies, between US$100 - US$350. 
For more information visit http://www.ifngoconference.org/index.php.

Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) 2011 Conference
Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD)
This conference will provide insights into neuroscience, interventions, policy innovations and emerging challenges for the ATOD sector. The conference will feature both Australian and International speakers. A call for papers for the Late Breaking Session opened on 1 August.


Date: 13 – 16 November 

Venue: Grand Chancellor Hotel, Hobart, Tasmania 

Cost: $720 member, $820 non-member early bird 

Registration: Early bird closes 9 September 2011. 


For further information on the Conference visit http://www.apsadconference.com.au/.

2011 National Hepatitis Health Promotion Conference Call for Abstracts
Hepatitis Australia
Hepatitis Australia is calling for abstracts to be submitted for our 2011 Health Promotion Conference ‘Joining the Dots for Successful Health Promotion’. The conference will demonstrate and explore programs, projects and practices that use a mix of collaboration, interventions and/or capacity-building strategies to deliver successful viral hepatitis health promotion.
Date: 24 & 25 November 2011
Venue: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Brisbane.
Community workers, health workers, educators, researchers and volunteers are invited to submit abstracts for oral, or poster presentations.
Abstract submission forms are available on the Hepatitis Australia website
http://www.hepatitisaustralia.com/events/hepatitis-health-promotion-conference
Abstract submissions are due by COB 23 September 2011. Direct questions to conference2011@hepatitisaustralia.com
 
Beyond 2012: Leading the Way to Action
National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC)

This conference aims to highlight how the sector is able to lead the way to action in addressing the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs and its associated harms among Indigenous Australians. 

Date:
6 - 8 June 2012 

Venue: Esplanade Hotel Fremantle, Western Australia
Call for Papers and online registration is now available at http://www.nidac.org.au/.

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Policy Activities

Joint Submission on Economic, Social And Cultural Rights - A Good Idea For The Act?
ACT Council of Social Service, ATODA, Mental Health Community Coalition ACT, Advocacy for Inclusion, ACT Mental Health Consumers Network, Care and the Consumer Law Centre, People with Disabilities
This joint submission was in response to the ACT Government invitation to participate in the community consultation about the possible inclusion of economic, social and cultural rights in the ACT. Economic, social and cultural rights (ESCR) are human rights that belong to individuals and include the rights to housing, health, education, work, and to take part in cultural life.
To read the joint submission visit: http://www.actcoss.org.au/publications/Publications_2011/1311SUB.pdf
To read ATODA’s additional ATOD specific submission visit: www.atoda.org.au
 
ATODA Submission to the ACT Budget 2012/13
ATODA works with stakeholders to develop an annual submission to the ACT Budget. This inclusive process seeks to identify sector priorities for funding and develop specific proposals on how priority areas could be progressed.  ATODA is focusing its budget submission on some key proposals and initiatives coming out of the sector, including:
  • Expanded northside ATOD service provision
  • Alcohol ignition interlocks for high range and repeat offenders
  • Expand access to residential rehabilitation services for clients on opioid maintenance therapy
  • ACT Tobacco Coordination
Other possible priority areas area also being discussed with stakeholders. For further information or to provide input please contact Carrie Fowlie, Executive Officer, on carrie@atoda.org.au or (02) 6255 4070.

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Policy, Reports and Research

A summary of recent policy, reports and research is available here http://www2.atoda.org.au/wp-content/uploads/PolicyReportsResearchSept.pdf

Note: Most of the reports and research items referenced within this eBulletin are available from the Alcohol and Other Drug Council of Australia’s National Drugs Sector Information Service (NDSIS) http://ndsis.adca.org.au.

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Consumer Participation

Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) Health Policies and Services Advisory Group
Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA)
HCCA is currently looking for a consumer representative to participate in the AMC Health Policies and Services Advisory Group that have:
  • Experience in full-time detention;
  • Relevant networks among those who are in detention or have a history of being in detention to ensure accountability to constituents.
Visit http://www.hcca.org.au/cms/index.php?page=Committee_Vacanciesfor more information.
 
Consumer Representative Training 2011
Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA)
By training as a Consumer Representative, individuals will be given the preparation and opportunity to effectively represent the consumer view, helping to make our health system safer and more patient-centred. This training is free and consists of 4 modules:
  • Understanding HCCA and the health consumer representative's role
  • The big picture - understanding how the system operates
  • Committee participation and presentation skills
  • The little picture - being a consumer representative
Session 1: 10am – 3pm, Friday 2 September 2011
Session 2: 10am – 3pm, Friday 9 September 2011
 
To register for training contact Heather McGowan at HCCA on (02) 6230 7800; or
heathermcgowan@hcca.org.au

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Youth, Mental Health and Allied Sectors

Mental Health Week 2011
Mental Health Community Coalition ACT
The theme for Mental Health Week 2011 is “No health without Mental Health”.
Date: 9 – 15 October 2011
To see what events are already happening in the Canberra community visit http://www.mhccact.org.au/cms/index.php?page=MHWeek_Mindscapes.  
For more information or to submit an event on the calendar contact Rachel Muller on (02) 6249 7756 or email admin@mhccact.org.au.
Submissions for the calendar close on 29 August at 5.00pm.
 
intouch Newsletter August 2011
Public Health Association of Australia Inc.
The July issue of intouch newsletter contains articles about plain packaging of cigarettes.
The newsletter is available at http://www.phaa.net.au/documents/August2011.pdf.

Clinical practice guidelines from beyondblue
beyondblue
Beyondblue has developed clinical practice guidelines for the treatment and management of depression in adolescents and young adults, which have been approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council. For more information visit http://www.acys.info/yfx/issues/number_180/augusts_news/clinical_practice_guidelines_from_beyondblue.

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Employment Opportunities

Research Officer
Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD)
The ANCD is the principal advisory body to government on drug and alcohol policy and services and is currently seeking to fill a position within its Secretariat office based in Canberra. The Research Officer position is a part time, flexible position that offers an opportunity to work as part of a small team supporting the ANCD in its work on national drug and alcohol issues. This position may include some interstate travel. A salary of up to $60,000 pro rata (plus super) is offered and salary packaging is available.
For an information package, including selection criteria please contact Sandra at the ANCD Secretariat on (02) 6166 9600 or email ancd@ancd.org.auor visit www.ancd.org.au.
 
Outreach / Early Birds Worker
Karralika Programs Inc
The Outreach and Early Birds Worker provides case management, including the development of management plans for clients post treatment and prior to admission to Karralika Programs Inc. residential services. As the Outreach and Early Birds Worker you will provide advocacy, support, practical advice, education and information for clients pre and post treatment, facilitate group sessions and be a positive role model for clients at all times. You will be required to prepare case notes and maintain client flies, produce a range of reports and supporting documentation and participate in staff meetings and staff training.
The position is full time (76 hours per fortnight) and includes working as part of a multidisciplinary team involving direct contact with persons recovering from problematic alcohol and other drug use. Evening and weekend shifts may be required as part of these roles.
Above Award wages are offered and salary packaging including PBI fringe benefits-free threshold is available.
At this stage Karralika Programs is seeking expressions of interest (including a CV) from interested parties.  For further information including the selection criteria please contact Sharon Tuffin on (02) 6163 0200. Expressions of interest should be emailed to Caroline at info@karralika.org.auby Wednesday 7 September 2011.
 
Note: employment opportunities in the sector are also promoted on the Jobs of Substance website at www.jobsofsubstance.com.au

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Grants and Funding Opportunities

National Binge Drinking Strategy – Community Level Grants
Australian National Preventive Health Agency (ANPHA)
ANPHA is seeking applications from incorporated community groups or local government organisations for project proposals that aim to prevent and reduce binge drinking by young people aged 12-24 years. Partnership and collaborative projects are strongly encouraged. Grants of up to $300,000 are available for individual projects. Grants of up to $500,000 are available for partnerships and collaborations.
Organisations interested in applying must address the assessment criteria in the format outlined in the application form. For more information on to access the Grant Guidelines visit http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/grantANPHA0021112.
Applications close Friday 28 October 2011.
 
Innovation Grants
ACT Government
Innovation Grants are being offered to people either individually or representing an organisation for one-off grants for innovative initiatives that aim to create or improve opportunities for vulnerable people in the ACT to participate in society. Innovation Grants will be offered for projects or initiatives that have the potential to influence or enhance social, economic or cultural opportunities of vulnerable people, their families or carers.
To view the Grant guidelines visit http://www.dhcs.act.gov.au/home/grants#innovations.
Applications close 23 September 2011.
 
Drug and Alcohol Awareness Course (Tenders Close 30 September 2011)
Interested parties are invited to submit a proposal for mandatory alcohol and drug awareness courses for people who are convicted or found guilty of drink or drug driving offences. Proposals detailing the content and delivery of a course that raises awareness of the effects of alcohol and drugs, including their effects on driving and health will be considered for approval. 
For further information contact: Rachel Muscat, Justice and Community Safety Directorate on (02) 6205 1454 or visit: http://www.procurement.act.gov.au/tenders_advertised/tender_download/open_tenders/17910.110 
 
Local Community Grants to Promote Better Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Programs
Department of Health and Ageing, Australian Government

These grants are to support community organisations around Australia to develop and implement ideas for local initiatives and programs to promote messages around chronic disease prevention and healthy lifestyle choices. Activities and programs will be supported and driven by the community to raise awareness of the relevant issues, promote overarching messages, and direct Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to information or support. For more information visit http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/grant4481011.
Applications close 30 September 2011.
 
Local Community Campaigns to Promote Better Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Program Grants
Department of Health and Ageing
Local Community Campaigns is about community organisations throughout Australia developing and implementing ideas for local initiatives and programs to promote messages around chronic disease prevention and healthy lifestyle choices and the benefits of accessing primary healthcare. These local projects will be supported and driven by the community to raise awareness of the relevant issues, promote overarching messages and direct Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples to more information and/or support.
To view the grant guidelines visit http://livelonger.health.gov.au/grant-funding/grant-guidelines.html.
Applications Close September 2011.
 
New Preventive Health Research Grants
Australian National Preventive Health Agency
The Australian National Preventive Health Agency (ANPHA) in collaboration with the NHMRC and the ANPHA Research Committee is currently finalising a new Preventive Health Research Grants Program to fund translational research projects focusing on the prevention of tobacco smoking, alcohol misuse and obesity.
ANPHA expects to call for applications for research funding under this new program in early September 2011, www.anpha.gov.au/grantsor email researchgrants@anpha.gov.auto be notified of the opening date.

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Media

New Report Reaffirms Decrease in ACT Property Crime
ACT Government Media Release: 23 August 2011
Simon Corbell MLA
The ACT's most recent report card on crime trends has reaffirmed the recent ABS data that showed a significant decrease in property crime offences across Canberra, Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Simon Corbell said today… "The first significant reform to Liquor Laws in more than 30 years combined with ACT Policing's commitment to anti-crime strategies such as the 'Play up, Pay up' campaign which was introduced in the March 2011 quarter have contributed to the decrease in assaults," said Mr Corbell.
The June 2011 Criminal Justice Statistical Profile is available online at: http://www.justice.act.gov.au/criminal_and_civil_justice/criminal_justice_statistical_profiles.

The Long Wait for Pain Relief
The Canberra Times: 20 August
Chronic pain can be debilitating but it's even worse when patients face long waits to access specialised treatment services, Peter Jean writes…
An accident almost three years ago left Harriet Daly with ongoing, debilitating back pain which could not be cured or made manageable with medication. The Kambah mother was referred to the Canberra Hospital's Pain Management Unit but had to wait 18months to begin using services as an outpatient.
To view the full article visit http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/opinion/editorial/general/the-long-wait-for-pain-relief/2264845.aspx.
 
More Community Services, But Even More Seek Support
15 August 2011
ACT Council of Social Service
The Australian Community Sector Survey, released today by the Australian Council of Social Service, shows that ACT community organisations increased their workload by ten per cent, but it was not enough to match the rising demand for services, as turn-away rates rose by 17 per cent. 'Community services are in demand, providing much need support to Canberra's most vulnerable. However, increasing pressures are causing more to be turned away without accessing the support they
are seeking,' ACT Council of Social Service Director Roslyn Dundas said.
The survey reveals the biggest shortfall was in helping those looking to access mental health services, with 86 per cent of organisations identifying this as an area of high or medium need. The level of unmet need was also particularly acute in the areas of homelessness and housing, general health, legal services and supports for families and relationships.
Visit www.actcoss.org.au/publications/mediareleases/2011/MR1106.pdf for the full media release.
Read the Australian Community Sector Survey - ACT Report by visiting www.actcoss.org.au/publications/Publications_2011/ACOSS-CommunitySectorSurvey-ACT2011.pdf.
 
Chief Minister grants $176,000 for healthier workplaces
ACT Government Media Release: 16 July 2011
Katy Gallagher, Chief Minister and Minister for Health
The ACT Government will provide nine ACT community organisations with a total of $176,000 of funding in 2011/2012 through the Workplace Health Promotion Capacity Building Funding Round (WHPCBFR), the Chief Minister and Minister for Health announced today…"Recent research commissioned by the Health Directorate highlights that almost half (49%) of ACT workers are overweight and around one-fifth (20%) report being smokers. These rates will impact on future demand for health services in the ACT…"
The full list of successful organisations for the health promotion sponsorship funding round includes:
  • Nutrition Australia ACT: $20,000
  • Heart Foundation ACT Division: $20,000
  • Pedal Power: $20,000
  • Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT: $20,000
  • Northside Community Service: $20,000
  • Arthritis Foundation of the ACT: $20,000
  • University of Canberra: $19,806
  • ACT Hepatitis Resource Centre Inc.: $19,000
  • Conflict Resolution Service: $17,576
To view the full media release visit http://www.chiefminister.act.gov.au/media.php?v=10840&s=1.

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Contact ATODA:

Phone: (02) 6255 4070
Fax: (02) 6255 4649
Email: info@atoda.org.au
Mail: PO Box 7187,
Watson ACT 2602
Visit: 350 Antill St. Watson

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The Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT (ATODA) is the peak body representing the non-government and government alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) sector in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). ATODA seeks to promote health through the prevention and reduction of the harms associated with ATOD. 

Views expressed in the ACT ATOD Sector eBulletin do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT. Not all third-party events or information included in the eBulletin are endorsed by the ACT ATOD Sector or the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT. No responsibility is accepted by the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT or the editor for the accuracy of information contained in the eBulletin or the consequences of any person relying upon such information. To contact us please email ebulletin@atoda.org.au or call (02) 6255 4070.