Development of new Victorian alcohol and drug strategy begins

10 August 2011

The Victorian Government has announced the development of a new strategy that will look at the way government, health services, businesses, families and communities work together to address alcohol and drug related harms in Victoria.

Currently one in ten Victorians drink at risky levels at least weekly and alcohol consumption is a major contributor to disease, injury and other social harms.

The Whole of Government Victorian Alcohol and Drug Strategy will focus on decreasing the current rates of alcohol and other drug abuse in Victoria, reducing the amount of harm that alcohol and drug abuse causes in the community and increasing access to treatment options so that people with an alcohol or drug problem can get help when they need it.

To help inform the development of the strategy, an Expert Advisory Group has been established to provide advice on the issues affecting the strategy.

Membership of the Expert Advisory Group reflects diverse interests including those from health, education, justice, business, local government and community groups. The advisory group will be chaired by Professor Richard Larkins.

Victorians are encouraged to provide their comments and ideas on how the harms associated with alcohol and drugs can be reduced.

The Department of Health has launched a new website for consultation on the strategy and has opened public submissions from individuals and organisations.

Consultations will help shape the strategy, including reflections on the current treatment system, the role of government and ideas for reforms in specific areas.

Further information

For more information on the strategy, including details about how to make a submission, visit the Whole of Government Victorian Alcohol and Drug Strategy website or email aodstrategy@health.vic.gov.au.