Opportunity to contribute to alcohol and drug reform

6 February 2012

Victorians have a new opportunity to contribute to the development of the Whole of Government Victorian Alcohol and Drug Strategy.

Mental Health Minister Mary Wooldridge said she has supported a request from the Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association to undertake additional community engagement on alcohol and drug reform.

The consultations include an online forum, a series of street surveys and focus groups that will run in metropolitan and regional Victoria.

A specific Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consultation forum will also be held in partnership with the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

Comments, ideas, stories and feedback will be considered by the expert advisory group and will help inform the development of the strategy.

Ms Wooldridge said the government is committed to engaging and learning from those involved in all sectors impacted upon by alcohol and drug issues, including treatment and prevention, liquor licensing and regulation, education and law enforcement.

“So far the consultation process has been a great success, with over 120 submissions from individuals, peak organisations, the non-profit sector, community groups and local government,” Ms Wooldridge said.

The new strategy will focus on decreasing the rate of alcohol and drug abuse, reducing the amount of harm caused by alcohol and drug abuse and increasing access to treatment options so that people can get help when they need it.

Contributing to the strategy

Victorians wanting to contribute online can visit www.your-say.net.au.

Further information about the strategy can be found on the department’s alcohol and drug strategy website.