Catchment-based planning

Key messages

In each catchment, alcohol and other drug service providers work in partnership to identify critical service gaps, pressures and strategies to improve the service system.
The planning function is led by a funded service provider in each catchment.
Each catchment-wide plan provides a basis for improved cross-service coordination at the catchment level to achieve a more consistent, joined-up approach to meet the needs of individual clients.

Catchment-based planning is undertaken by a single provider on behalf of, and in partnership with all alcohol and other drug services operating in the catchment and a range of stakeholders, including the department.

The primary purpose of the planning function is to assist alcohol and other drug providers operating in a given catchment to develop a regular common plan which will identify critical service gaps and pressures, and strategies to improve responsiveness to people with alcohol and other drug issues (particularly people facing disadvantage), population diversity and broader community need.

The plan provides a basis for improved cross-service coordination at the catchment level to achieve a more planned, joined-up approach to the needs of individual clients. Service coordination is expected across housing, mental health, gambling, primary health, justice, education and employment providers.