The NSW non government alcohol and other drugs (AOD) sector call on the NSW Government to release the final report of the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Drug ‘Ice’ and engage in a dialogue with the sector to progress the recommendations.
The NSW peak body for non government AOD services, NADA, convened over 30 of its members to discuss the outcome of the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Drug ‘Ice’. Many of the services had contributed to consultations, roundtables and submissions to the Special Commission with expectations that the final report will respond to the many issues impacting on the provision of quality AOD treatment in NSW.
AOD services declared that they are desperately underfunded to meet the growing demand and complexities of people requiring treatment, let alone provide the full range of services and support needed for individuals and their families.
NADA CEO, Larry Pierce said, “AOD services tell us, like they told the Commission, that they are chronically challenged by unstable funding, short term contracts, struggles recruiting and retaining qualified staff, and no investment in infrastructure, resulting in run-down facilities.”
“The AOD service system is on life support, and the burden is borne by NSW communities,” said Mr Pierce.
Whilst the Commission handed the final report to the NSW Government on 28 January, the sector was only able to discuss recommendations from the Closing Submissions of Counsel Assisting. As one service representative put it on the day, “if this Special Commission was so urgent to conduct—why isn’t it equally urgent for the government to respond?”
Julie Babineau, NADA President and CEO of Odyssey House NSW said, “NADA and its members have high hopes that the NSW Government will make the report public immediately and implement the recommendations. NSW communities need access to quality health services for alcohol and other drugs—just like any other health issue in this state.”
For more information please contact Larry Pierce, Chief Executive Officer, on 0411 747 106 or email .
