Families of people using ‘ice’ and other drugs will be able to access support anytime of the day and night through a new Family Drug Support Online service.
The service was launched this month by the Assistant Minister for Children and Families, Dr David Gillespie, on behalf of the Minister for Health and Federal Member for Flinders, Greg Hunt MP.
The Federal Coalition Government has provided funding to Family Drug Support to develop the new online service.
Minister Hunt urged all those with family members suffering from substance abuse to seek assistance.
“It takes courage for someone to seek information and support for substance misuse. It also takes courage to seek assistance if you are concerned for a family member who is using drugs or alcohol,” Minister Hunt said.
“And that’s where the work of organisations such as Family Drug Support can help individuals and families in dealing with the emotional burden and feelings of helplessness through positive education and support.”
The service includes evidence-based content relating to both early and advanced support for families at different stages of intervention.
The website was designed to expand the accessibility, scope and reach of Family Drug Support services – particularly for people who aren’t able to attend its workshops.
Minister Gillespie said the Federal Coalition Government was committed to building safe and healthy communities through assisting those individuals and families impacted by drug and alcohol abuse.
“This Government recognises the significant personal and psychological impact that substance misuse has on individuals and their families,” Minister Gillespie said.
The Government’s national endeavour to tackle the devastating impact of drugs and alcohol is spearheaded by its commitment of more than $689 million over four years through the overarching Drug and Alcohol Program. This includes approximately $547 million going towards drug and alcohol treatment which compliments state and territory funding to the sector.
Primary Health Networks have played an important role in commissioning the Commonwealth’s investment in treatment by providing services based on local need. This ensures individuals and families have access to the right services in the right place and at the right time.
Minister Gillespie said the launch of the Family Drug Support Online service was another demonstration of the Federal Coalition Government’s efforts to help Australian families doing it tough.
“Our investment is substantial– an investment in dollars, in people, and in organisations – as we all work towards reducing and preventing the harms associated with alcohol and other drugs in our communities,” Minister Gillespie said.
More information can be found at www.fdsonline.org.au
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