ATODA, in partnership with the ACT Medicare Local will be monitoring the impacts of Health Reform on the ACT ATOD sector through the General Practice Engagement Working Group. Some recent relevant updates include:

Gillard Government welcomes options on dental care
Tanya Plibersek, Health Minister
27 February 2012
Health Minister Tanya Plibersek today welcomed the final report of the National Advisory Council on Dental Health.
Ms Plibersek said the report raised questions and pointed to challenges which would need to be resolved in order to deliver a publicly funded dental scheme. She said any scheme would need to be managed in a fiscally responsible way and be phased in over a period of time. It would also need to:

• Be targeted at Australians who can least afford to pay for oral health care themselves.
• Account for gaps in existing private and public dental services, including workforce and infrastructure constraints.
• Ensure funding by the Commonwealth did not duplicate, or lead to a reduction, in existing state and territory dental care services.
• Account for existing Commonwealth funding of dental care and be established after the closure of the Chronic Disease Dental Scheme.

The Government will be considering the content of the report as it continues to examine options for public dental care in Australia.
For the full media release visit http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr12-tp-tp018.htm.

Simulation to stimulate local health reform
ACT Medicare Local
28 February 2012
A Health Simulation held tomorrow will focus on how successfully the national health reform can be implemented at the local level. The Simulation will model and test how this ‘new health system’ will function in the ACT and will draw directly on the experience and judgment of people who are, or have been, involved in the system.
The National Health Reform Agreement (August 2011) outlines a vision for whole-of-system reform which aims to deliver ‘national unity’ supported by ‘local control’ of service delivery.
“Canberra is facing challenges such as an ageing and growing population and increasing rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes. The Simulation will assist us to plan how to better position health care services to face these challenges,” said Dr Sharma.
For more information visit http://www.actml.com.au/newsroom/media-releases/simulation-to-stimulate-local-health-reform

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News from the ACT ATOD Workers Group

The ACT ATOD Workers Group met on 2 February 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 include:

• Finalising Workers Group workplan for the first half of 2012;
• Coordinating Indigenous Risk Impact Screen training;
• Identifying and discussing key policy activities including call for submissions related to expanded hepatitis c treatment options on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme;
• Identifying core skill needs of workers to inform ongoing workforce development activities.

For more information visit http://www.atoda.org.au/about/about-atod-sector/workers-group/

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News from the ACT ATOD Executive Directors’ Group

The Group met in February and discussed key sector issues, including:

• Mapping potential ATOD services to in-reach into the Belconnen and Gunghalin Health Centres;
• Discussing reconciliation and cultural competency of services;
• Development of the Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm;
• Strengthening support and processes for consumer representatives;
• Potential input into the Health Directorate’s Clinical Services Plan;
• ATOD residential services review progress; and
• The ACT Drug Diversion Evaluation.

For further information please contact Vera van de Velde, Chair, on vera.vandevelde@act.gov.au

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Sector Development, Activities and Events

• Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence and Outstanding Contribution to Drug and Alcohol Endeavours
• Excellence in Prevention and Community Education
• Excellence in Treatment and Support
• Excellence in Research
• Excellence in Services to Young People
• Excellence in Law Enforcement
• Excellence in Alcohol and other Drugs Media Reporting
• Excellence in School Drug Education, and
• Excellence in Creating Healthy Sporting Communities.

• Increasing Indigenous employment rates
  —Professor Matthew Gray (Australian National University)
• Strategies to enhance employment of Indigenous ex-offenders after release from correctional institutions
  —Professor Joe Graffam (Deakin University)

February - March 2012 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 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 www.atoda.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Feb-Mar_2012_TPDC.pdf
 
Call for Contributions: April - May 2012 Training and Professional Development Calendar
The Youth Coalition is calling for contributions to the April - May 2012 Training and Professional Development Calendar. The Training and Professional Development Calendar is produced bi-monthly by the Youth Coalition of the ACT, in partnership with the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT (ATODA) and the Mental Health Community Coalition ACT.
To include your training in the calendar for April - May 2012, email katrina@youthcoalition.netor call the Youth Coalition on (02) 6247 3540 to provide the following details:

• Name of training / course
• Date(s) of training / course
• Contact person, phone number and email address for RSVP
• Cost of training / course

Please submit your training details for this calendar by COB Tuesday 13 March 2012. 
 
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. There are currently 3 bus tours operating (Tour A, B & C) with each tour visiting different services.
 
Upcoming tour dates:

• Tour B - Wednesday 7 March 2012 (FULLY BOOKED)
• Tour C - Wednesday 21 March 2012
• Tour A - Wednesday 11 April 2012
• Tour B - Wednesday 9 May 2012
• Tour C - Wednesday 23 May 2012
• Tour A - Wednesday 6 June 2012
• Tour B - Wednesday 13 June 2012

Cost: Ranges from $50 - $70.
Registration: Contact Katrina on (02) 6247 3540 or katrina@youthcoalition.net.
For more information visit http://www.atoda.org.au/activities/comorbidity-bus-tour/
 
Dealing with Difficult Callers/Clients - A toolbox of skills
Lifeline Canberra
The Dealing with Difficult Callers/Clients course is a half day workshop which aims to provide participants with fundamental skills in counselling and dealing with difficult people.
During this course, participants learn strategies and skills they can use to help foster effective relationships and deescalate tense situations with clients.
Date: 12 March 2012
Cost: $100.00 per participant including GST (Or a concession rates of $90.00 for not for profit organisations).
To download the registration form please visit www.act.lifeline.org.au or contact Lifeline Canberra by phone on 02 6247 0655. To make a booking for a course, please forward your registration form and payment to Lifeline Canberra email training@act.lifeline.org.au.
 
P2P: Innovative practice for community workers
OzHelp Foundation
You have the possibility to participate in this six month pilot project: “P2P (peer to peer) – Innovative practice for community workers”. This peer supervision group aims to be practical, structured and to give participants the possibility to learn new ways to solve problems. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to network. P2P aims to provide community workers with a confidential, safe and supportive environment, to reflect on professional practice. Community workers will improve their self-awareness and take responsibility for their practice.
Information Sessions:
9.30 – 10.30 am, Wednesday 14 March at Majura Hall, Dickson.
9.30 – 10.30 am, Thursday 15 March at Woden Community Services, Woden.
Frequency: Meetings will be once a month for 1.5-2 hours
Cost: Free
Target group: Community workers who provide direct client service
OzHelp will facilitate a compulsory (free) training session to those participating in the project. This session will review the structure of P2P; set the framework, establish groups and how participants can ensure their effectiveness.
Training session date: 3 April 2012.
To register for this project, for the information session or for more information, please contact the OzHelp Community Services Team on ocs@ozhelp.org.au or (02) 6251 4166.
 
Aboriginal Culture, History and Heritage Training
ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS)
Facilitated by Kerry Reed-Gilbert of 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 people.
Date: Friday 16 March 2012
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Venue: Level 1 meeting room, Weston Community Hub, 6 Gritten Street Weston
Cost: $59 Homelessness Services; $167 ACTCOSS members; $203 Non-members; $244 Government or Corporate
Registration: Essential, as places fill fast.
Access registration forms at http://www.actcoss.org.au/secdevel/seminars.html.
Forms can be returned to lisa@actcoss.org.au or by fax to (02) 6202 7200.
 
Appreciation of Torres Strait Culture Awareness Training
ACT Council of Social Services (ACTCOSS)
Facilitated by Benny Hedges 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: Friday 23 March 2012
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Venue: Level 1 meeting room, Weston Community Hub, 6 Gritten Street Weston
Cost: $59 Homelessness Services; $167 ACTCOSS members; $203 Non-members; $244 Government or Corporate
Registration: Essential, as places fill fast.
Access registration forms at http://www.actcoss.org.au/secdevel/seminars.html.
Forms can be returned to lisa@actcoss.org.au or by fax to (02) 6202 7200.
 
Front Office and Reception Staff Training
The Front Office/Receptionist Toolkit course offers participants a greater understanding of the skills and dynamics of effective communication and listening in this key role. It also provides a range of knowledge, skills and strategies to understand and respond effectively to people face to face or on the phone who may be: angry, threatening or upset; have a mental illness; are intoxicated/drugged or in crisis.
Dates: 28 March 2012
Time:  9.00 - 5.00 pm
Venue: Om Shanti Training Rooms, 2a Barker St Griffith (Griffith Shops, above Macka's newsagency & the IGA supermarket - free parking at rear of shops)
Cost: $165.00 (GST inc)
Includes: morning and afternoon tea and all manuals and certificates.
RSVP: essential to training@rico.com.auciting your name, contact details, numbers of registrations required, the dates & title of the course you wish to attend. A confirmation email and invoice will be sent to you.
Minimum of 8 participants and maximum of 20 participants.
For further information contact Gloria Claessen on 0421 159 400.
Bookings close 20 March.
 
Smoking Cessation Training Course for Act Workplaces
ACT Government Health Directorate
The 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.
Date: 15-16 May 2012. A 1 day Refresher course will also be run on the 17 May for those who have already done this Quit educator training in the past.
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.

Expressions of interest may also be considered by service providers wanting to deliver services to the community.
This training is fully subsidised but places are limited. For more information contact Patricia Byrne, Health Promotion Branch, Health Directorate on 620 57382 or email Patricia.Byrne@act.gov.au



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The 2012 Melbourne Drug & Health Alliance Conference: What's the harm?
You are cordially invited to the first annual Melbourne Drug and Health Alliance Conference.
Date: 29 March 2012
Time: 9am – 4.30pm
Venue: The Village Roadshow Theatrette, State Library of Victoria
This conference presents an opportunity for professionals that work with people using drugs and alcohol and students studying in a relevant field, to gain access to some of Australia's finest thinkers on drug and alcohol clinical practice, workforce development and public policy.
‘What’s the harm?’ will showcase innovative and successful strategies to minimise the harms related to injecting drug use and inspire attendees to explore, discuss and debate what has held Victoria, and more broadly, Australia back in drug policy, attitude and action.
To ensure your place, order tickets at http://mdhaconference.eventbrite.com/
For more information on the Melbourne Drug and Health Alliance please contact Luke O'Connor on lukeo@youthprojects.org.au or visit www.mdha.org.au.
 
ATDC 2012 Challenging Conversations: Creating an inclusive system
Alcohol, Tobacco & other Drugs Council Tas Inc.
The conference aims to provide an opportunity for those working in the Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs (ATOD) and related sectors to engage in conversations that challenge the way we think about our industry and provide our services. 
The conference will address challenges and opportunities in the following areas:

Date: 15-16 May 2012-02-03
Venue: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart, Tasmania
The call for abstracts is now open.
For further information visit https://events.conventionwise.com.au/ei/cm.esp?id=9603010000320&pageid=_3D20ZUNJN

Crime prevention and communities: Social and environmental strategies for safer neighbourhoods
Australian Institute of Criminology
Australian and International speakers will discuss social and environmental projects and programs; urban and community planning and safety; crime prevention and safety in Indigenous communities; and the design development, implementation and evaluation of crime prevention programs.
This conference presents an opportunity for those crime prevention practitioners, police, urban planners, non-government organisations and policy makers to come together and advance the knowledge and thinking around this burgeoning – and successful – area of community safety and security.
Date: 4 – 5 June 2012
Venue: Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre
Call for abstracts are now open.
For more information or to register visit http://aic.gov.au/en/events/aic%20upcoming%20events/2012/prevention.aspx

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/.
 
Drug and Alcohol Nurses of Australasia Annual Conference 2012
Drug and Alcohol Nurses of Australasia
The 2012 DANA conference is themed “In the Age of Complexity”.
The conference is open to anyone with an interest in sharing their knowledge and experience in working with drug and alcohol issues. This conference will bring together nurses and other allied health professionals from all types of settings. 
DANA encourages your involvement in the 2012 DANA conference and present some of your work and research to enable this event to be our most memorable ever!
Date: 13-15 June 2012
Venue: Melbourne
The call for submission of abstracts for oral presentations and posters is now open at www.danaonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2012-DANA-Call-for-Abstracts.pdf
For further information visit http://www.danaconference.com.au/
 
13th International Mental Health Conference
Public Health Association of Australia
The theme for this years conference is "Positive Change: Investing in Mental Health".
The 13th International Mental Health Conference will focus on the complex mental issues affecting the elderly including depression, dementia, delirium, paranoid disorders and anxiety. It will also explore the mental health issues of young Australians (aged 18 -- 24 years) struggling with schizophrenia, depression, suicidal thoughts, bipolar, anxiety disorders and drug use and drug induced psychosis. With 7% of Australian children and adolescents (aged 0-17 years) experiencing mental health problems and only one in four receiving professional health care, a positive change is long overdue.
The conference will examine state, federal, international and COAG initiatives, early intervention strategies, validated treatments, suicide prevention and the effectiveness of mental health preventive measures.
Date: 6-8 August 2012
Venue: Outrigger Inn (formerly Holiday Inn), Gold Coast, Queensland
Call for papers is now open at http://www.anzmh.asn.au/conference
 
Population Health Congress 2012
Public Health Association of Australia
The overall theme of the Congress will be ‘Population health in a changing world’ to reflect the dynamic environment in which the broad public health field needs to, and does, operate.
Date: 10 - 12 September 2012
Venue: Adelaide Convention Centre, South Australia
Call for abstract submission and online registration now available at http://www.conferenceco.com.au/PopHealth/Index.html

The First International Conference on Law Enforcement and Public Health
Public Health Association of Australia, Australian Institute of Police Management, University of Melbourne
A conference to establish and investigate the role of law enforcement in relation to public health.
Law enforcement, especially through police forces, has a crucial but largely unacknowledged role in the protection and promotion of the public health. This conference is about the inter-relationship of law enforcement and public health, with invited papers from world experts in specific aspects of this relationship, from multiple sectors and disciplines; and case studies of successful collaborations of police and public health across a wide range of issues.
Date: 11-14 November 2012
Location: Melbourne
For further information please contact Professor Nick Crofts, Conference Director, at nick.crofts@unimelb.edu.au

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Blueprint for Youth Justice in the ACT: Consultation
Youth Justice Implementation Taskforce, and, Office for Children, Youth and Family Services
The Human Rights Commission’s report ‘The ACT Youth Justice System 2011’ was released in July 2011. The ACT Government response to the HRC Report was released on 18 October 2011, informed by the Youth Justice Implementation Taskforce (YJIT), with a blueprint for Youth Justice in the ACT to be a key part their response. The role of YJIT is to develop the blueprint and monitor it's implementation over 12 months, and the taskforce is consulting with the ACT community to inform the development of the blueprint.
To access the consultation paper visit http://www.dhcs.act.gov.au/ocyfs/youth_justice_implementation_taskforce.
 
Canberrans invited to have a say on ACT Youth Justice System
Joy Burch MLA, Media Release
5 March 2012
Public consultation forums about the development of a plan to reform the youth justice system in the ACT will be held this month, ACT Minister for Community Services Joy Burch said today.
Ms Burch said the planned public forums were an opportunity for the community to have a say about what the Blueprint might look like, and what it would include.
Five public consultation forums will be held:

Join the discussion at http://timetotalk.act.gov.au/time-to-talk/youth-justice/.

Consultations close 30 March 2012.

ACT Government Paper: Extending Throughcare for Offenders
Chief Minister and Cabinet Directorate
Based on the findings in the report, 'Seeing it Through: Options for improving offender outcomes in the community', a paper proposing options for the co-ordination and governance of Throughcare was developed for consideration by Cabinet. In December 2011 Cabinet agreed to extend the Throughcare policy framework which supports offenders' reintegration into the community. The framework seeks to recognise the diverse and complex needs of prisoner during transition into the community. The framework will focus on seamless service provision with a view to reducing the risk of re-offending behaviours.
Based on Government's decision to extend the throughcare policy framework,
Chief Minister and Cabinet Division will meet the key Government and community stakeholders in early 2012 to discuss timeframes and next steps to progress the policy framework.
More information and the report can be accessed at http://www.cmd.act.gov.au/policystrategic/throughcare

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Free Consumer Representative Training Course
Health Care Consumers Association Inc
Are you, or a member of your family, a patient, carer or user of health care services? Then you are a health care consumer.
The Health Care Consumers Inc invites you to come along, learn some new skills and meet other health care consumers in a friendly atmosphere over a two day course.
This course will answer your questions and provide you with the necessary skills to help you to make a really valuable contribution to the health system.
After completing the course (you must attend both days), you will receive a certificate of participation, which enables you to nominate to be a consumer representative on a Health Directorate Committee.
Date: Friday 23 & 30 March 2012
Venue: HCCA Meeting Room, Sports House, 100 Maitland Street, Hackett ACT
Time: 10am-2pm

Morning tea and lunch will be provided. 
Transport assistance may be available. Please ask for details.
To find out more and to register for course please contact 6230 7800 or email adminofficer@hcca.org.au
 
Althea Wellness Centre Reference Group
DIRECTIONS ACT
Expressions of interest for a consumer representative to join the DIRECTIONS ACT Althea Wellness Centre Reference Group.
The Althea Wellness Centre is a Department of Health and Ageing funded Community Based Health Care Service for clients and their family members with past or active alcohol and/or other drug issues.
For more information click here, or contact DIRECTIONS ACT on 6122 8000.

News from The Drug War Front
Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy
News From The Drug War Front is CAHMA's weekly radio show. It is broadcast on Canberra's community radio 2XX, on 98.3 fm, every Tuesday morning from 11am to 12pm.
For more information contact Geoff Ward on geoffw@cahma.org.au

Survey: HIV futures seven - Making positive lives count
HIV Futures seven is the seventh national survey of Australian People Living with HIV (PLHIV) conducted by the Living with HIV program at the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University.
HIV Futures is an anonymous survey of PLHIV. It asks people about a range of issues including their health, treatments, work and financial situation. HIV Futures surveys have been conducted every two to three years since 1997, attracting responses from around 1000 PLHIV each time.
The HIV Futures survey has been developed in consultation with a variety of community groups and it is officially supported by the National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS (NAPWA), the Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO) and the Australasian Society of HIV Medicine (ASHM).
HIV Futures provides information to PLHIV, community organisations, service providers, doctors and government about the actual experience of living with HIV and the current needs of PLHIV.
The survey can also be filled out online by going to www.hivfutures.org.au
For more information, or to request a copy of the survey booklet, contact us on 1800 064 398 (freecall) or hivfutures@latrobe.edu.au 
The survey will be open to responses until 1 April 2012.

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New MHCC ACT Executive Officer
Mental Health Community Coalition ACT
It is the great pleasure of Mental Health Community Coalition ACT to announce that the new Executive Officer will be Mr Ian Rentsch.
Ian comes to MHCC ACT with extensive experience in senior management and leadership positions in the not for profit sector. He has previously held positions in South Australia and ACT as well as in national organisations. Ian is currently finishing in the position of Chief Operating Officer with Palliative Care Australia. The MHCC ACT Board is very pleased to have attracted an Executive Officer of Ian’s calibre and look forward to him carrying forward the great work MHCC ACT has done over the last several years and bringing a new depth to the work of MHCC ACT with his broad experience and knowledge.
Ian will commence with MHCC ACT on Monday 19 March 2012 and is looking forward to meeting MHCC ACT members, partners and stakeholders, and to getting to know the ACT community sector.
 
MHCC ACT Quarterly Community Forum: New MH Inpatient Unit and other updates
Mental Health Community Coalition ACT
MHCC ACT, ACTMHCN, MH JH & AD, and Carers ACT are hosting the next Quarterly Community Forum. The topic of the Forum is New Inpatient Mental Health Unit and other Updates.
Date: Monday, 5 March 2012
Time: 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Venue: Room 6, Level 1 Griffin Centre
The ACT Health Directorate is overseeing the building and commissioning of a new adult acute mental health inpatient unit to replace the current Psychiatric Services Unit (PSU). The new Unit is expected to begin operations in March and over a transition period it will become the home of adult inpatient MH services and the PSU will close.
This will mean big changes in the way services are delivered and in the experience of clients. Come to this Forum to hear more about the transition into the new Unit and what events consumers, carers and service staff are planning to mark the opening of the new Unit and closing of the PSU. 
There will also be updates on the Community MH Policing Initiative and on two projects on documenting consumer experiences of care.
For more information or to RSVP your attendance please contact MHCC ACT on (02) 6249 7756 or email admin@mhccact.org.au
 
Volunteers assistance package for new work health and safety laws
Safe Work Australia
Safe Work Australia Chair, Mr Tom Phillips AM, has launched a new volunteer assistance package developed by Safe Work Australia in partnership with Volunteering Australia.
The package includes a Volunteer Assistance Line, email and webpage designed to provide guidance and support to volunteers and volunteer organisations who may be affected by the new work health and safety (WHS) laws.
By calling the Volunteer Assistance Line on 02 6240 4990, people can talk to an expert for advice on how the new WHS laws affect volunteers and their activities.
The volunteer assistance package includes fact sheets, frequently asked questions and useful contacts and is available at www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
 
Best practice recruitment and selection – a tool kit for the community sector
State Services Authority, Department of Planning and Community Development, Victoria
This tool kit has been developed to assist the community sector in the application of best practice in the recruitment and selection process. This, in turn, supports the broader objectives of meeting workforce capability needs.
Download the tool kit at http://www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/33055/Recruitment_and_Selection_toolkit.pdf

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Association of Alcohol and other Drugs (AADANT) Coordinator
Northern Territory Council of Social Service Inc. (NTCOSS)
The coordinator will work with a high degree of autonomy to coordinate the new AOD peak body. This position will initially sit with NTCOSS but AADANT is expected to become incorporated within 3yrs.
Position Purpose: Facilitating input from AOD sector organisations, including those in regional and remote centres in the Northern Territory, to social policy development and advocacy, including input into Government reviews and consultative processes. Facilitating the development of partnership opportunities between the Department of Health and the AOD sector.
Position Reports to: Executive Director NTCOSS and the AADANT Steering Committee.
Position Location: Darwin with Territory wide and interstate travel.
Terms of Employment: Full Time (37.5 hours per week)
Salary level: $85 000 pa plus vehicle.
For more information contact NTCOSS on 08 8948 2665 or admin@ntcoss.org.au.
Applications close 12 March 2012.
 
Conciliator and Senior Review Officer - Health Services
ACT Justice and Community Safety Directorate, Human Rights Commission
The Commission provides a fair and accessible process for dealing with complaints about discrimination, health services, disability services, services for older people, community services, and services for children and young people; as well as promoting service improvement and developing awareness in government, and the community, of human rights.
For more information contact Mary Durkin on (02) 6205 2222 or visit http://www.jobs.act.gov.au/site_search?mode=results&queries_all_query=09942
Applications close 12 March 2012.

Various vacancies at Ted Noffs Foundation ACT

Mentoring and Life Skills Coordinator
To work with vulnerable young people at risk of or transitioning from homelessness. The main functions of the role are individual advocacy, training the young person in life skills, setting up and managing healthy mentoring relationships between the young person and their mentor and developing young people’s engagement and capacities through social enterprise.

Alcohol & Other Drugs Worker
Working as a member of a multi disciplinary team in a residential setting. Group management and crisis intervention skills, creativity, initiative and practical life skills and experience are essential along with the ability to organise positive recreational and educational activities.

Receptionist / Office Worker
Duties and responibilities will include courteous and efficient answering of all phone calls, clerical support and office coordination.

Adolescent and Family Counsellor
Work with residential clients from their first contact through to completion. A major aspect of this role is to assist young people to rebuild their relationships with their families and other significant people in their lives and to manage their lives more effectively.

For more information on these roles visit http://www.noffs.org.au/TED/client/JobSearch/c_jobDetails.jsp?elementID=39&pageName=Jobs
Some applications close 16 March 2012.

Counsellor - Counselling and Treatment Service, Alcohol and Drug Service
ACT Health Directorate
The Alcohol and Drug Service is a multidisciplinary service within ACT Health, providing a range of specialist services for people affected by alcohol and other drug use. This position will work with a multi skilled team of health professionals to provide a range of psychosocial interventions and services to the community. The successful applicant will be required to have recent demonstrated experience in the provision of comprehensive assessments, counselling  and  group work to a complex standard.
Eligibility/Other Requirements: Tertiary qualifications in Psychology with unconditional registration with the Psychologists Board of the ACT or Social Work with eligibility for membership and accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers, or degree with postgraduate Diploma in Counselling or related discipline. Previous clinical experience is essential. Current drivers licence.
For more information contact Carmel McBride on (02) 6205 1609.

Alcohol and Other Drugs Worker - Casual Positions
DIRECTIONS ACT
Successful applicants will provide casual AOD worker support in programs and services within DIRECTIONS ACT which include Needle and Syringe Program, Outreach and Promotions, Arcadia House and Administration and Reception. A training program (paid) will be provided to successful applicants and attendance to the training, both theoretical and practical elements, is a requirement of accepting the position. A six month tenure is required for all casual positions at DIRECTIONS ACT, with an extension available which is negotiated with the Manager or Executive Director.
For the alcohol and other drugs worker position description and selection criteria visit http://www.directionsact.com/employment.
For more info, contact Diedre on (02) 6122 8000 (Tuesday to Thursday) or email hr@directionsact.com

 
Note: employment opportunities in the sector are also promoted on the Jobs of Substance website at www.jobsofsubstance.com.au

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Many of the Grants listed in this section can be found at the ACT Government Grants portal online at http://www.grants.act.gov.au/ or through the Australian Government Grantslink at http://www.grantslink.gov.au.
 
Worker Subsidy Grants: 2012 NIDAC Conference
National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee
NIDAC has funding to support workers from rural and remote areas to attend the 2012 NIDAC Conference in Fremantle, Western Australia.
NIDAC recognises there are individuals in rural and remote Australia working to address harmful Indigenous alcohol and drug use who often find it difficult to take up opportunities that assist them in keeping abreast of the latest knowledge and best practices being used within the field across Australia.  Workers are also often isolated from other workers in the AOD sector. 
To support these workers who otherwise may not be able to attend the Conference, applications are now being accepted for Worker Subsidy Grants.
The Worker Subsidy Application package can be obtained by accessing the 2012 NIDAC Conference website: Worker Subsidy Grants
For more details about the 2012 NIDAC Conference go to: NIDAC Conference
Applications Close Friday 9 March, 2012
 
Small Grants Program
The Australian Rechabite Foundation
Organisations that seek to prevent alcohol-related harms are invited to apply for grants of up to $25,000 through the ARF’s small grants program.
Organisations must be existing Australian-based entities with Deductible Gift Recipient status (applications from individuals will not be considered)
Organisations may be providers of community support services (including clubs and associations), involved in research, involved in teaching, training or provision of educational services, sporting bodies or associated groups, other groups with objects aligned to the ARF’s mission to build knowledge of the harmful effects of alcohol, inform lifestyle choices and encourage/support change within communities and individuals.
Projects must be grounded in evidence of potential effectiveness, in the case of action projects, address issues which hold promise for reducing alcohol problems, in the case of research projects, undertake to collect and provide evidence of the project’s effects in relation to its aims.
If you are interested in applying for a small grant please email arfoundation@australianrechabites.org.auto request a copy of the application form.
Applications close 23 March 2012.
 
Invitation to Tender: Youth Mental Health Step Up Step Down Supported Accommodation
ACT Government Health Directorate
The Health Directorate seeks the services of an organisation to operate a youth Step Up / Step Down residential mental health service for people aged 18 to 25 years, for up to three (3) months, using a case management approach.
For further information contact Julie Buttriss on 02) 6207 3399 or ProcurementTwo@act.gov.au
To access the tender visit http://www.procurement.act.gov.au/tenders_advertised/tender_download/open_tenders/19117.110
Tenders close 29 March 2012
 
Community Centenary Initiatives Fund
The year 2013 and the Centenary of Canberra is fast approaching and the ACT Government is keen to support high quality, community driven projects, events and initiatives to enhance the program of activity being developed for 2013.
Eligible activities include, but are not limited to, elements of existing festivals and events which particularly relate to the Centenary of Canberra; regional, national or international extensions of events; and projects with community benefit, engagement and legacy.
The ACT Government’s Centenary of Canberra unit, under the guidance of Creative Director Robyn Archer AO is currently planning a year of heightened activity and special programs in 2013 to celebrate this significant milestone in the history of our nation. Visit www.canberra100.com.au to familiarise yourself with Centenary programs and progress to date. 
Proposals are invited from organisations or individuals wishing to conduct activities which will enhance the Centenary of Canberra program in 2013.
Projects must be delivered/completed in 2013.
Application details, including a guidelines and application form are available at www.canberra100.com.au/projects/community_centenary_initiatives_fund.php or call Centenary of Canberra Community Engagement Officer, Mr Dan Watters on 6205 8408.
Applications close on 30 June 2012 or when all available monies have been committed, whichever comes first.

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More support for Indigenous communities to tackle alcohol and substance abuse 
The Hon Jenny Macklin MP, Media Release
1 March 2012
Indigenous communities will get extra help to tackle alcohol and substance abuse, with a share in $20 million in funding from the Gillard Government.
The Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, said the Breaking the Cycle of Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Indigenous Communities initiative delivers on the Government’s election commitment to address the harm caused by alcohol and substance abuse through local, community led solutions.
View the full media release at http://www.jennymacklin.fahcsia.gov.au/mediareleases/2012/Pages/substance_abuse1march2012.aspx
 
New road safety operations team expands drug driving capability
Simon Corbell MLA, Media Release
17 February 2012
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Simon Corbell, today announced the number of officers trained to conduct roadside drug testing would be increased to enable a multipronged approach to roadside operations.
Mr Corbell said that the new team would provide the community with multi-skilled police officers specifically trained to target and remove high risk takers from our roads.
View the full media release at http://www.chiefminister.act.gov.au/media.php?v=11376
 
ACTCOSS asks "Whose Rights?"
ACTCOSS Media Release
13 February 2012
On the fourth anniversary of the Federal Parliament's apology to the stolen generations the ACT Council of Social Service is launching a report advocating actions in a number of areas to ensure
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the ACT can enjoy the same rights as the general community.
'Human rights allow people to vote, have a say in public affairs, move freely, receive healthcare as needed, go to school and go to work. Unfortunately, for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the ACT, various human rights are not being realised,' commented Roslyn Dundas, Director of ACTCOSS.
Read the entire media release at www.actcoss.org.au/publications/mediareleases/2012/MR1201.pdf
Download the report 'Whose Rights? Strengthening Human Rights for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in the ACT' at www.actcoss.org.au/publications/Publications_2011/2311PUB.pdf
 
New System to Crackdown on Prescription Painkiller Abuse
The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP, Media Release
12 February 2012
The Australian Government will set up a new $5 million national electronic records system to combat abuse of controlled drugs including prescription painkillers, said Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek.
The Electronic Recording and Reporting of Controlled Drugs system will be made available to doctors, pharmacists and state and territory health authorities across Australia to monitor the prescribing and dispensing of addictive drugs in real time.
View the full media release at http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr12-tp-tp014.htm
 
Grants Announced to Fight Youth Binge Drinking
The Hon Mark Butler MP and The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, Media Release
10 February 2012
The Australian Government is continuing its fight against youth binge drinking armed with $10 million to fund 26 community level projects across Australia.
The projects will receive funding of up to $500,000 each in the third round of grants under the Community Level Initiative—part of the Labor Government’s National Binge Drinking Strategy to help combat risky drinking.
The Youth Coalition of the ACT has been awarded$490,594 for the Champions ACT project. The project will increase awareness of alcohol related harm in young people who access entertainment precincts and licensed venues across Canberra.
View the full media release at http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr12-mb-mb007.htm
 
New national body to support Medicare Locals
The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP, Media Release
7 February 2012
A national primary care organisation, the Australian General Practice Network, will form on 1 July 2012 a new national body for Medicare Locals–the Australian Government's landmark new primary health care network.
To view the full media release, select the link below: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr12-tp-tp011.htm

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