South Australian Alcohol and Other Drug Strategy 2024-2030
In July 2024, The Salvation Army provided a submission to Preventive Health SA in response to the South Australian Alcohol and Other Drug Strategy 2024-2030.
In this submission, we outline the challenges faced by certain cohorts in seeking support and treatment for harm caused by AOD. Our recommendations underscore the need for approaches that are evidence-based, culturally appropriate and individualised.
The Salvation Army is a leading provider of alcohol and other drug services across Australia, we are deeply committed to preventing and reducing the harm caused by alcohol and other drugs in our community. Our evidence-based national model of care approach is grounded in best practice and delivered with a commitment to respecting the autonomy and dignity of those we assist.
Our submission underscores several critical areas to enhance the Strategy's effectiveness:
- Capacity Versus Demand:
There is an urgent need for adequate, stable, and long-term funding to ensure continuous and sustainable support for AOD services. The demand for these services far exceeds current capacity, and funding uncertainty often disrupts care.
- Innovative Treatment Models:
We advocate for the redesign of treatment models to be innovative and evidence-based, addressing current barriers in the system. Tailored and targeted treatment models are essential to meet the diverse needs of individuals experiencing AOD-related harms.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People:
Community-led initiatives are vital. Programs led by and in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities can provide culturally sensitive environments and effective treatments. Culturally tailored programs should focus on fostering resilience and supporting positive development pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people.
- Children and Young People:
Early intervention strategies, particularly in collaboration with the education sector, are crucial. These strategies should be individualised, child-centred, and promote choice. Alternative diversion models should be included to divert children and young people from conventional criminal justice pathways into rehabilitative and supportive interventions.
- Supporting Women and Families:
Women-specific interventions are necessary to address the unique ways women experience AOD-related harms. Reducing stigma and discrimination against women seeking treatment is essential. Training healthcare and service providers to recognize family violence indicators in AOD clients can lead to more appropriate and tailored support.
- Rural and Remote Communities:
Place-based responses should be expanded to include rural and remote communities. The development of a statewide AOD workforce development framework must address the specific workforce issues faced by these communities.
Preventive Health SA will release the final Strategy and feedback submissions later this year on the Preventive Health SA website