ATODA eBulletin - November 2012

IN THE NOVEMBER 2012 ISSUE

ATODA News / Nalxtrexone / ACT Election 2012 Update / The Melbourne Declaration / PIR Update / ATOD EDs Group / ATOD Workers Group / Alexander Maconochie Centre / Policy / Community Sector Reform / Health Reform / Sector Development / Training / Conferences / Service Delivery / Newsletters / Consumer Participation / Allied Sectors /
Employment / Grants / Media

News from the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT

Annual General Meeting
ATODA's 3rd AGM will be held in Room 9 of the Griffin Centre, at 20 Genge St. Canberra City, on Friday 30 November 2012 at 9:30am and will include and evaluation workshop.
Board nominations must be received by ATODA from full members by 10am Thursday 15 November 2012. Download a nomination form.
For further details, including nomination forms, see ATODA's website or contact Carrie Fowlie, Executive Officer, on carrie@atoda.org.au or Dave Corby on office@atoda.org.au or call (02) 6255 4070.

ATODA Employment Opportunity: Strategic Policy
ATODA is looking for experienced strategic policy staff to engage in work on alcohol, tobacco and other drug policy issues. Candidates must have experience in strategic policy development and analysis, and have an understanding of government and political processes. People who are seeking full-time, part-time, casual or short-term contracts are invited to express their interest in being placed on the register. Short-term secondments from the public service are also encouraged. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
To apply complete the expression of interest form (PDF) (word), call (02) 6255 4070 or email carrie@atoda.org.au

ACT electronic Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (eASSIST): Stage One Implementation
Screening involves asking questions carefully designed to determine whether a more thorough evaluation for a particular problem or disorder is warranted. Many clinical guidelines related to ATOD identify the need to implement valid screening as a core part of ATOD treatment. The eASSIST was developed by Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia (DASSA) as an electronic version of the World Health Organization ASSIST (a questionnaire which screens for all levels of problem or risky substance use). An ACT version of the tool has been developed, and will be implemented by a group of ACT ATOD services from November 2012. Its implementation will be evaluated, and recommendations made regarding the potential further roll out of the tool.
For more information: Or to get involved contact amanda@atoda.org.au.

ACT Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Information and Harm Reduction Training Module (Version 1)
An ACT ATOD Information and Harm Reduction Training Module has been developed to increase ATOD harm reduction knowledge and encourage best practice for those working with people who use ATOD in the ACT. The module is designed to be used as a resource or to inform harm reduction education activities and utilised by people who conduct training and education related to ATOD in the ACT. The information in the module can be adapted or used to meet a diversity of needs, with all the information in the slides having been referenced and sourced from peer reviewed literature.
For more information: See ATODA’s website, call (02) 6255 4070 or email info@atoda.org.au

ACT ATOD Services Directory
ATODA, in partnership with the ACT ATOD Workers Group are progressing the development of the ACT ATOD Services Directory as an online tool for workers. The new, searchable, electronic version of the Directory will be released in early 2013. Version 9, the current pdf of the Directory, is available in the meantime from ATODA's website

Free Nicotine Replacement Therapy Assistance for Workers
Access to nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is available to smokers who are ATOD, youth or mental health workers in the non-government, not for profit sector of the ACT and/or members of ATODA to help staff address their tobacco consumption and support quit attempts at no cost to the individual employee.
For more information: See ATODA's website, call (02) 6255 4070 or email info@atoda.org.au.

ACT ATOD Minimum Qualification Strategy (MQS)
Under the ACT ATOD MQS it is necessary for all workers employed by ATOD services operated by the ACT Government Health Directorate or community organisations funded by the ACT Government Health Directorate, to either possess the minimum qualification or have an agreed plan and timeline with their agency to meet the minimum qualification within 3 years.
Classes are currently being held for participants who have completed the 4 Core Competencies and need to complete the remaining units of the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs. The final block of classes will be held from 3-5 December.
For more information: See ATODA’s website, call (02) 6255 4070 or email rebecca@atoda.org.au

See other items throughout the eBulletin.

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Naltrexone is not recommended for treating opioid dependence

ATODA understands that ACT consumers have been referred to interstate services to access naltrexone implants for the treatment of opioid dependence; and wishes to reiterate its advice to members and stakeholders that this treatment is not recommended including advice from the Therapeutic Goods Administration, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), the Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) and the NSW State Coroner
ATODA calls on its members and stakeholders to raise awareness of this advice with consumers, families, support people and the broader community; the alcohol, tobacco and other drug sector; and allied sectors (including mental health, legal services, the courts and corrective services) to ensure that consumers are not referred for treatment for opioid dependence with naltrexone until there is sufficient evidence to ensure its safety and efficacy.

A dangerous method with tragic consequences
The Sydney Morning Herald, October 16 2012
A former heroin addict who had been on a legal methadone program for four years, Grace Yates was counting on a seeming miracle treatment promoted by the clinic's director, Dr Ross Colquhoun, to free her from methadone dependency.
For more information: See the article
For more information and a collection of recent media articles: Please see ATODA’s website

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ACT Election 2012 Update

The 2012 ACT Election was held on 20 October 2012 with the result being declared on 31 October 2012. The composition of the new ACT Legislative Assembly is 8 members from the ACT Labor, 8 members from the Canberra Liberals and 1 member from the ACT Greens. This composition meant that neither of the major parties was able to form government without the support of the member from the ACT Greens, Mr Shane Rattenbury MLA.
For more information: See the ACT Legislative Assembly election – final results

Parliamentary Agreement
ACT Labor and the ACT Greens have negotiated a parliamentary agreement to form a minority government. This agreement has a number of implications for the ACT ATOD sector, including agreements to:

Establish a needle and syringe program at the AMC medical centre;
Work with the ACT Medicare Local and other specialised primary health care organisations to commence a mobile primary health clinic by 2015 to target disadvantaged groups within the community.

For more information: See the Parliamentary Agreement here or here

ACT Labor ATOD Election Commitments
ACT Labor made several ATOD related election commitments, including:

For further information about the major parties election commitments and policy platforms see:

The first sitting of the 8th Legislative Assembly for the ACT
The first sitting of the Legislative Assembly for the Australian Capital Territory was held on 6 November 2012 at which all 17 elected members were sworn in in the presence of Acting Chief Justice Richard Refshauge.

The assembly elected Mrs Vicki Dunne MLA as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Ms Mary Porter AM MLA as Deputy Speaker and Ms Katy Gallagher MLA as Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory. Mr Zed Seselja MLA was recognised as Leader of the Opposition.
The next sittings of the Assembly will take place from 27-29 November 2012.

ACT Government Ministerial Portfolios
Ms Katy Gallagher MLA
   Chief Minister
   Minister for Health
   Minister for Regional Development
   Minister for Higher Education

Mr Andrew Barr MLA
   Deputy Chief Minister
   Treasurer
   Minister for Economic Development
   Minister for Community Services
   Minister for Sport and Recreation
   Minister for Tourism and Events

Mr Simon Corbell MLA
   Attorney General
   Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development
   Minister for Police and Emergency Services
   Minister for Workplace Safety and Industrial Relations

Ms Joy Burch MLA
   Minister for Education and Training
   Minister for Disability, Children and Young People
   Minister for Arts
   Minister for Women
   Minister for Multicultural Affairs
   Minister for Racing and Gaming

Mr Shane Rattenbury MLA
   Minister for Territory and Municipal Services
   Minister for Corrections
   Minister for Housing
   Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs
   Minister for Ageing

For more information: See here
ATODA congratulates the members of the Legislative Assembly on their election and looks forward to working closely with them all over the next four years.

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The Melbourne Declaration

Australia has signed the United Nations 2011 Political Declaration on HIV/AIDS, committing to bold actions and targets including, by 2015, reducing the sexual transmission of HIV by 50%, dramatically expanding access to HIV treatment and reducing HIV transmission among people who inject drugs by 50%. Australia is better placed than most countries to meet these targets, but concerted action is urgently required. The Melbourne Declaration calls on State, Territory and Commonwealth Governments to work with community-based organisations, research centres and professional organisations to:

Increase uptake of, and better HIV testing;
Enhance access to antiretroviral treatment;
Make HIV PrEP available, and;
Strengthen a partnership response and an enabling environment, including support for HIV research and dissemination of information.

ATODA supports the Melbourne Declaration and encourages organisations and individuals to become signatories.
For more information and to sign the petition: See the website

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Partners in Recovery Initiative (PIR) Update
Department of Health and Ageing (DOHA) and Participating ACT Services
PIR aims to better support people with severe and persistent mental illness with complex needs and their carers and families, by getting multiple sectors, services and supports they may come into contact with (and could benefit from) to work in a more collaborative, coordinated, and integrated way. For further information about the program, including the application guidelines, see DOHA's press release, email partnersinrecovery@health.gov.au or info@atoda.org.au

ACT Tender
The ACT Medicare Local is leading the development of an ACT tender with key stakeholders, including the ATOD sector. ATODA is actively involved in this process to support the development of the comorbidity aspects of the model.
To provide further input regarding the tender, ACT model or governance please contact the Mental Health Team at the ACT Medicare Local on (02) 6287 8099 or at ATODA, Carrie Fowlie on carrie@atoda.org.au

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News from the ACT ATOD Executive Directors Group

The ACT ATOD Executive Directors Group met in October to progress a range of sector-wide activities, including:

A presentation by the ADS on the inpatient Unit Redesign Progject;
Input into policy development, including the clinical services plan, chronic disease strategy and the blood-borne virus in the prison framework;
Recent work safety developments;
Other service and policy updates.

For more information: Please contact Vera Van De Velde, Chair on Vera.VanDeVelde@act.gov.au or for further information about the group visit ATODA's website

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News from the ACT ATOD Workers Group

The ACT ATOD Workers Group met on 4 October 2012, and are progressing work across a range of areas. If you would like to get involved, please review the information below and liaise with the Workers Group representative from your agency. Activities / discussions include:

Discussing highlights from the 8th Australasian Viral Hepatitis Conference.
Supporting service users to attend the Annual Remembrance Ceremony for those that lost their lives to illicit drugs. This event is coordinated by Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform.
Exploring opportunities to expand the accessibility and usability of the ACT ATOD Services Directory, including making the information searchable in an online format (expected release of early 2013); and,
Engaging in the development of the 5th Annual Comorbidity Interagency Day which will be held on 28 November 2012.

For more information: Please see the ACT ATOD Workers Group webpage.

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Alexander Macohochie Centre

ATODA’s response to the Strategic Framework for the Management of Blood Borne Viruses in the Alexander Maconochie Centre 2012-2014
ATODA has provided feedback to the Draft Strategic Framework for the Management of Blood Borne Viruses in the Alexander Maconochie Centre 2012-14. ATODA congratulates the ACT Government for taking the necessary steps to develop and implement a comphrehensive and evidence-informed approach to preventing and managing blood borne viruses in all parts of the Canberra community; and to preventing and reducing alcohol, tobacco and other drug related harms.
For more information: See the response or email Carrie Fowlie, Executive Officer, on carrie@atoda.org.au

An NSP at the AMC? Article by David McDonald
David McDonald has recently written an article explaining the benefits and detriments of the NSP at the AMC, outlining the evidence for the NSP and the arguments against it.
The article can be read here

Greens drive needle exchange: AMA
The Canberra Times, 30 October 2012
AMA ACT branch president Andrew Miller said the most significant health policy issue that Greens MLA Shane Rattenbury could raise during his negotiations with Labor and the Liberals over who would form the next government was the proposed needle exchange at the Alexander Maconochie Centre. ''We have an undertaking from the government but I detect that they could get wobbly on it,'' Dr Miller said.
For more information: See the article

Let’s have a transparent prison drug program
Lifematters, ABC Radio National, 19 September 2012
Smoking rates among prisoners and those with a mental illness are far higher than in the general community. How can health campaigns target smoking among disadvantaged populations?
For more information: Listen to the program

Policy

ATODA’s response to the Health Directorate Clinical Services Plan
ATODA
ATODA has provided feedback on the Clinical Services Plan to the Health Services Planning Unit of the ACT Government Health Directorate. ATODA stands ready to support the Health Directorate to access and utilise the ACT ATOD sector’s expertise to strengthen evidence-informed health services planning and clinical service delivery in preventing and reducing ATOD related harms.
For more information: See the response or email Carrie Fowlie, Executive Officer, on carrie@atoda.org.au

Address by Director Gil Kerlikowske of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy
Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD)
Director Gil Kerlikowske was appointed by President Obama as the chief drug policy adviser for the USA and will be giving a speech on USA Drug Policy which will also include a Q&A session.
Date: 14 November 2012
Time: 12:00pm – 1:30pm
Cost: Free
Venue: Committee Room 2R1 Parliament House Canberra
RSVP: Essential by 9 November 2012
For more information: See the flyer, call (02) 6166 9600 or email ancd@ancd.org.au

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Community Sector Reform

Equal Remuneration Order Update
Community sector employers in the ACT who employ workers under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2012 will be required to meet their obligations under the equal remuneration order from the first pay period after 1 December 2012.

ACT Supplementation
All agencies, receiving ACT Government funding through Service Funding Agreements should have recently received a letter outlining the process by which support will be provided to eligible community sector employers in the ACT. The ACT Government has committed to providing over $30 million in support to community sector employers for those programs that it funds. The approach that is being taken by the ACT Government to meet its commitment to provide support is a 'by application' approach. Support will be provided where it is both asked for and where the request is within support parameters. The form to complete if seeking support was circulated with the letter from Community Services Directorate.
For more information: Email robert.gotts@act.gov.au

Commonwealth Supplementation
Negotiations between the Commonwealth and State and Territory governments have taken place about Commonwealth and State/Territory-funded programs. The Commonwealth has made offers to States and Territories using a similar approach to its own funded programs. Conditions include that supplementation funding must go to organisations to meet their costs following the Equal Remuneration Order (ERO), as is required of Commonwealth funded organisations.

Is the Commonwealth’s supplementation funding guaranteed?
Earlier this week, the Commonwealth announced that it will introduce legislation to quarantine supplementation funding for equal pay. This will ensure that the Commonwealth’s allocations for supplementation are preserved over the 8 year rollout and cannot be undermined by future Budget decisions.

When will services hear about supplementation funding?
Offers will go out in November based on the percentages of each program attributed to wage costs. The percentages of each program attributed to wages costs is available on the FaHCSIA website (link below). This financial year there will be 7 months supplementation.

What if my program is not covered?
The Australian Council of Social Services has heard from some services who have been advised that their funding programs are out of scope of the ERO, meaning they won’t receive supplementation funding. They have raised this issue with FaHCSIA who are following up both on the principle of which programs are covered, and ensuring there are appropriate and consistent processes in place for organisations to respond to such decisions and appeal where necessary.
For more information: See ACOSS' website FaHCSIA’s website, call 1300 653 227 or email SACS.communications@fahcsia.gov.au

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Health Reform

eHealth Records
People seeking health care in Australia can now register for a personally controlled electronic health (eHealth) record. Registering for an eHealth record will help Australians take control of their health and health information.
As the system grows it will also give the doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals involved in people's care the information they need to make the best decisions about their health needs.
For more information: See the ehealth press release or call 1800 723 471.

Dental Reform
The federal government recently announced a $4.1 billion Dental Reform package, which contains three initiatives:

A Child Dental Benefits Schedule
A National Partnership Agreement for Adult Public Dental Services; and
A Flexible Grants Program

These reforms will assist people on low incomes to access services in the public dental system.
For more information: See an ABC news article or call 1800 020 103

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Sector Development, Activities and Events

5th Annual Comorbidity Interagency Day
CatholicCare Canberra & Goulburn
Join over 200 people for a free sausage sizzle lunch to learn about the mental health and alcohol and other drug services that operate in the ACT region and how they can assist your clients.
Date: 28 November 2012
Time: 12pm – 2pm
Venue: Blackfriars Rose Garden, Australian Catholic University Campus, 127 Philip Avenue, Watson
For more information and to register: See the flyer, call (02) 6163 7600 or email Stefanie.burvill@catholiccare.cg.org.au

Gugan Gulwan Open Day 2012
Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation
Gugan Gulwan will be celebrating their 20th anniversary and launching their “It’s OK to Talk” Suicide Prevention DVD, Health is Hip Album & Beyond Today Music Clip during the Open day.
All past & present clients, visitors and stakeholders are invited to join in the celebrations.
Date: 9 November 2012
Time: 10am – 2pm
Venue: Gugan Gulwan, Grattan Court, Wanniassa, ACT
For more information: See the flyer, call (02) 6296 8900 or email selina@gugan-gulwan.com.au

Survey on employment services for people in alcohol or other drug treatment
Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD)
The ANCD is currently developing work on issues surrounding employment for people who are receiving or have completed AOD treatment. This survey seeks information from AOD service providers on these issues.
The survey will take approximately 15 minutes to complete.
For more information: See the survey, call (02) 6166 9600 or email mary@ancd.org.au

‘Ecstasy. Face Facts’
Australian Government
The Australian Government's National Drugs Campaign (NDC) is a key element of the National Drugs Strategy 2010 - 2015 and specifically aims to reduce young Australians' motivation to use illicit drugs by increasing their knowledge about the potential negative consequences of drug use.
The most recent phase of the campaign, 'Ecstasy. Face Facts.', aims to contribute to a reduction in the uptake of ecstasy and other illicit drugs among young Australians, by raising awareness of the harms associated with drug use and encouraging and supporting decisions not to use.
The NDC communicates key messages to young people through an integrated mix of youth marketing and online activities supported by a campaign website and a range of resources.
For more information: See the NDC website or email NationalDrugCampaign@health.gov.au

New downloadable materials from the National Tobacco Campaign
Australian Government
The National Tobacco Campaign has developed several new marketing materials aimed a reducing the number of prenant women who smoke, including encouraging current smokers to encourage them to make a quit attempt, supporting current quitters in making their quit attempt and help them reduce their change of relapse.
For more information: Materials can be downloaded here

New young people specific section of AIVL’s website
Australian Injecting and IllicIt Drug Users Leauge (AIVL)
AIVL has just launched a new section on its website which aims to raise awareness of Blood Borne Viruses (BBVs), such as hepatitis C, hepatitis B and HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Safe Sex practices among young people who are/or may be in the future exposed to illicit drug use.
For more information: See the website

New Russell Family Fetal Alcohol Disorders Association website
Russell Family Fetal Alcohol Disorders Association (RFFADA)
RFFADA’s new website contains information about fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, including resources and factsheets.
For more information: See the website

Breaking the Taboo - invitation
The Global Commission on Drug Policy, Google, Avaaz, The Beckley Foundation, Sundog Pictures and Virgin Unite
This December a campaign against the War on Drugs and a documentary called ‘Breaking the Taboo’ will be released, with some of the most notable figures in world politics speaking out against the subject.
The website for the campaign brings together a coalition of NGOs, showing their united their interests in this issue. It is hoped that, by bringing a large number of NGOs from a range of interested sectors together that the campaign and the documentary will have influence.
For more information: And to be part of the campaign see the website or email office@beckleyfoundation.org

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Training and Professional Development

October - November 2012 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.
Download the training calendar
To include your training in the next calendar, email katrina@youthcoalition.net or call the Youth Coalition on (02) 6247 3540.

ACT Comorbidity Bus Tours
ATODA, Mental Health Community Coalition ACT (MHCCA) 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.
Note the remaining 2012 tours are booked out.
For more information: See ATODA's website, call (02) 6247 3540 or email katrina@youthcoalition.net

“What About Me?” Children and Young People Living with Parental Substance Abuse
Community Services Directorate and Health Directorate, ACT Government
This is a child-focused workshop to enhance the practise of those who work with children in vulnerable families. The workshop will offer participants the opportunity to consider: the idea of alcohol and drug ‘misuse’ in relation to parenting; children and young people’s experiences; the impact on children and young people’s development; and strategies to support children and young people within families.
Date: 19 November 2012
Time: 8:45am – 4:30pm
Cost: Free
Venue: Professional Development Centre, Ground Floor, Nature Conservation House, 153 Emu Bank, Belconnen
For more information: See the flyer, call (02) 6207 1344 or email csdlearning.development@act.gov.au

Workshop: Aboriginal, Culture, History & Heritage Training
ACTCOSS & Kerry Reed-Gilbert, Kuracca Consultancy
This one-day workshop for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal workers provides participants with a general introduction into the recent history of Aboriginal people in Australia. It aims to improve knowledge of Aboriginal culture and dispossession, and explores ways organisations may improve their practice to respond to the needs of Aboriginal peoples.
Date: 23 November 2012
Time: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Cost: ACTCOSS member $165, Non-members $235, Government/Corporate $305
Venue: Level 1 meeting room, Weston Community Hub, 1/6 Gritten Street, Weston ACT 2611
For more information: See the flyer, call (02) 6202 7200 or email actcoss@actcoss.org.au

1 Day Appreciation of Torres Strait Culture Awareness Training
ACTCOSS & Benny Hodges of Wis-Wei Consulting
This one-day training for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers aims to assist participants in developing a better understanding of the cultural perspectives of Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. The training will explore ways for organisations to develop a better understanding of some key issues such as culture, kinship and community. This training assists participants in developing and improving a range of cross-cultural communication skills.
Date: 28 November 2012
Time: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Cost: ACTCOSS members $165, Non-members $235, Government/Corporate $305
Venue: Level 1 meeting room, Weston Community Hub, 1/6 Gritten Street, Weston ACT
For more information and to register: See the flyer, call (02) 6202 7200 or email actcoss@actcoss.org.au

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Conferences and Symposiums

Smoking Cessation Update Day 2012
The Smoking Research Unit at the Brain and Mind Research Institute
Topics at the conference include:

What role can technology play in tobacco dependence treatment?
Tobacco addiction treatment; from evidence to practice
Post-cessation weight gain and changing multiple unhealthy lifestyle behaviours
Smoking in Australian prisons
Smoking cessation for people with mental health disorders
Feedback on the Lung Health Promotion Centre Smoking Cessation Facilitator course
Smoking cessation in patients with HIV / AIDS
Smoking in pregnant indigenous women

Date: 27 November 2012
Venue: The Sydney Nursing School Auditorium, 88 Mallett St Camperdown, Sydney
Cost: $150
For more information: See the website, call (02) 9351 0816 or email fumer@med.usyd.edu.au

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Service Delivery and Referral

This section contains details about new or updated services that accept referrals. For a complete listing of ACT services, please see the ACT ATOD Service Directory

COMPASS support group
Directions
COMPASS is a support group for family members and friends of those where alcohol, tobacco and/or other drugs have impacted on their life.
Families, friends and support people are encouraged to share their stories and support one another. We look at the alcohol and other drug issues affecting their loved one, and how someone else's addiction impacts on your own lives. The group focuses on self care, setting boundaries, understanding addiction, communication strategies, and how to access support when dealing with the chaos of someone else's addiction.
Dates: Every second Wednesday 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Venue: 1 Bradley Street Woden.
For more information: See Directions website, call (02) 6122 8019 or email julieb@directionsact.com

SMART Recovery
Directions
SMART Recovery is a self-help group for people facing addiction, focusing on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. The four main principles of SMART Recovery are:

Motivation to abstain
Coping with urges
Lifestyle balance
Problem solving

Attendees are encouraged to share strategies and tools used around managing their addictive behaviours. All are welcome, whether in active addiction or recovery. All Directions SMART Recovery facilitators are trained by, and registered with SMART Recovery Australia.
Dates: Every week on Tuesday 10:30-12:00 and Wednesday 5:30-7:00
Venue: 1 Bradley Street Woden.
For more information: See Directions website, call (02) 6122 8019 or email julieb@directionsact.com

The Junction - FREE smoking cessation clinic and nicotine replacement therapy
Anglicare
The Junction Youth Health Service offers a free smoking cessation clinic and nicotine replacement therapies for young people aged 12-25.
For more information: See the Junction's website, call (02) 6232 2423 or email junction@anglicare.com.au

Somazone – new online awareness campaign for young people about the risks associated with Cannabis
Australian Drug Foundation
The Australian Drug Foundation has developed Somazone, a new online awareness campaign, incorporating Facebook, a design competition and online videos around the risks associated with cannabis use for young Australians. The campaign is a joint initiative between the Australian Drug Foundation and the Victorian Department of Health and will ensure that young people between the ages of 13 and 18 and their parents are better informed on the health impacts of cannabis use.
For more information: See the website

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Newsletters, Magazines and Updates

Smoke Free Environment Initiative Newsletter
ACT Government Health Directorate
This newsletter is an update about the implementation of a Smoke Free Environment within the Division of Mental Health, Justice Health, Alcohol and Drug Services.
For more information: See recent editions of the newsletter here, here, here and here

Of Substance eBulletin
Australian National Council on Drugs
This edition of the Of Substance magazine addresses many drug and alcohol issues, including the 'problem of pain: relief without opiates?'
For more information: See the magazine

Hep C Review
Hepatitis NSW
The most recent edition of Hep C review covers a range of news features including the ‘Australia prison needle program story’, the economic impact of hep C in Australia and helping prisoners get healthier.
For more information: See the magazine

Nofasard Newsletter – October
National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Related Disorders (NOFASARD)
The monthly newsletter of NOFASARD details news related to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and related disorders. Highlights from the October edition include 'Manning up to prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders', a guest blog by Paediatrician Dr James Fitzpatrick.
For more information: See the newsletter

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Consumer Participation

Mental Health Consumer Scholarship Scheme
ACT Health Directorate and Canberra Institute of Technology
The ACT Mental Health Consumer Scholarship Scheme creates an opportunity for people who have experienced mental health issues to gain a Certificate IV one of the Human Services – which includes the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs. The scholarship scheme is for people who are 17 years or older, have a mental illness or mental disorder, and would like the opportunity to undertake studies in the Centre of Health, Community and Wellbeing at the CIT.
The aim of the scholarship scheme is to increase education opportunities for mental health consumers that strengthen their employment in the community sector, recognising the immense value offered by persons with an experience of mental illness.
Applications close: 30 November 2012
For more information: See the Health Directorate's website or call (02) 6205 1178

Youth Drug Survey for participants aged 16-25 years
Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD)
The ANCD wants to hear young people's views on alcohol and drug policy.
For more information: See the survey

Citizen Me! Engaging Children and Young People in Your Organisation
NSW Commission for Children and Young People
Citizen Me! has been developed to help organisations, including government departments, meaningfully and effectively involve children and young people in their decision making. It highlights the importance of seeing children and young people as partners with adults in the decision-making process.
For more information: See the publication or email kids@kids.nsw.gov.au

New Guide to Using Participatory Design in the Development of Online Youth Mental Health Services
Young and Well Cooperative Research Centre, developed by the Inspire Foundation and the University of Sydney
This publication will support researchers, policy-makers and the youth, health and community sectors to involve young people in the development of online services and activities designed to improve young people's mental health. One of the key challenges for radically improving young people’s mental health is how to research, design and develop interventions that are not only evidence-based but engaging for young people. The guide includes an introduction to the theoretical and methodological foundations of Participatory Design, further details of the framework and its components, examples of methods and case studies where these methods have been incorporated and guidelines for participatory best practice.
For more information: See the guide here or email info@yawcrc.org.au

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Youth, Mental Health and Allied Sectors

Poverty in Australia – New report
Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS)
A new report by the Australian Council of Social Service has found that despite 20 years of economic growth, many people in Australia do not have at least a decent basic standard of living.
For more information: The report can be accessed here

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Employment and Volunteering Opportunities

Note: employment opportunities in the sector are also promoted on the Jobs of Substance website.
See also ATODA Employment Opportunity above.

Counselling positions – Full and Part Time
Directions
Directions is a non-profit organisation offering a range of services and programs aimed at maximising the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities affected by alcohol and other rug related harm.
Remuneration: Starts at $53, 488 p.a. (with the ability to salary package up to $16,050) plus superannuation of 9%.
Applications close: 23 November 2012
For more information: Email Catherine.vaughan@directionsact.com or call (02) 6122 8000

Social Drug Worker – Drug and Alcohol Program
Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service Inc.
A fulltime experienced Drug and Alcohol Worker is sought. The successful applicant would demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, extensive counselling experience and a demonstrated capacity to work effectively, positively and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
Applications close: 9 November 2012
For more information: Email Roseanne.longford@winnunga.org.au or call (02) 6284 6259

Part Time GP wanted for busy Canberra ATOD service
Althea Wellness Centre (Directions)
Althea provides medical and psychological care to people who have issues with substance use: whether they are actively using, are in recovery, or are affected by their family member's use. Althea works collaboratively with other programs of Directions ACT and clients can access a range of services including counselling and case management, support groups, needle and syringe program, and residential based therapies.
Remuneration is 0.2 FTE from $50000 per annum (inclusive of 9% superannuation). Additionally, Directions is a PBI and the position can access salary sacrificing up to $16000 per annum. Directions is open to negotiating extra days per week with the right candidate.
The call for applications is ongoing
For more information: Email jasonm@directionsact.com or call (02) 6122 8016

Director – ACT Council of Social Service
ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS)
The ACT Council of Social Service is the peak representative body for the social and community services sector and people living with disadvantage and inequality in the ACT. We are looking for a dynamic person to take on this role in the Canberra community sector. The person will be required to represent community agencies to government and business, have a strong media presence, work across the community sector to create networks and partnerships, lead other community peak agencies, and manage a team of staff in the ACTCOSS Office.
Applications close: 16 November 2012
For more information: See ACTCOSS’ website, call (02) 6278 8403 or email lisa@actcoss.org.au

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Grants and Funding Opportunities

ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership Grants Program
ACT Community Services Directorate, Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs
The aim of the Program is to provide funding support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for leadership training for both formal and informal development opportunities for participants.
Applications close: 30 November 2012
For more information: See here , call (02) 6207 6199 or email oatsia@act.gov.au

ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Grants Program
ACT Community Services Directorate, Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs
The aim of the Program is to showcase the cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in the ACT community through the development of innovative projects that contribute to sustainable communities by highlighting and promoting cultural diversity and social harmony.
Applications close: 30 November 2012
For more information: See here, call (02) 6207 6199 or email oatsia@act.gov.au

The ACT Health Promotion Grants Program 2013/14 Community Funding Round
ACT Health Directorate
The 2013/14 Community Funding Round is open to community-based groups, not-for-profit organisations and government agencies. The aim of the 2013/14 funding round is to support activities that promote good health and the prevention of chronic disease with a particular focus on reducing health inequalities including improved physical activity outcomes, healthy eating, smoking prevention/reduction/cessation, and responsible consumption of alcohol.
Applications close: 10 December 2012
For more information: See the Health Promotion Grants website, email hpgrants@act.gov.au or call (02) 6205 3837

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Media

Government Steps up Anti-Smoking Momentum
Hon Tanya Plibersek and Hon Warren Snowdon, press release, 4 November 2012
Anti-smoking advertising campaigns aimed at the general community and high-risk groups such as pregnant women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are the latest initiaitive in the Government’s push to help Australians stop smoking.
For more information: See the press release

Smoking Rates in Australia Continue to Decline
Hon Tanya Plibersek and Hon Bernie Ripoll, press release, 29 October 2012
Smoking rates and unhealthy levels of alcohol consumption are down, but the percentage of adults who are overweight or obese has increased.
For more information: See the press release

Cannabis spray may help severely ill cope with pain
Canberra Times, October 24 2012
Cannabis prescriptions could soon be available to Australians for the first time as evidence mounts for its medicinal use in people with cancer and multiple sclerosis
For more information: See the article

Finding ways to get around ban on tobacco advertising
Canberra Times, October 24 2012
Millions of smartphone users, including young people, are downloading pro-smoking apps that are potentially breaching laws banning tobacco advertising, researchers say.
For more information: See the article

Youth on trip back in time
Canberra Times, October 13 2012
But interest in LSD and other hallucinogenic drugs has grown significantly in recent years, particularly among the 20- to 29-year-old age group.
For more information: See the article

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