Improve and strengthen drug and alcohol treatment services in Canberra

Subject:
Improve and strengthen drug and alcohol treatment services in Canberra
Eligibility:
Residents of ACT
Sponsoring member:
Mrs Elizabeth Kikkert
No. of Signatures:
212
Posting Date:
Closing Date:
8/2/2021
Tabled:
10/2/2021
Referred to Minister:
10/2/2021
Responded to:
Information about the Principal Petitioner is available through the sponsoring Member of the Legislative Assembly's office
TO: The Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly
Reason for this Petition

The following residents of the ACT draw to the attention of the Assembly that:
- according to ACIC reporting, the average consumption of many major drugs, including alcohol and tobacco, has been increasing in the ACT in recent years;
- specialist alcohol, tobacco and other drug services in the territory can no longer meet demand, with waiting lists growing even longer in 2020;
- delays in accessing rehabilitation services may negatively hinder successful treatment; and
- research confirms the link between alcohol and other drugs and violence in the home.

The petitioners, therefore, request the Assembly to call upon ACT Government to conduct a thorough inquiry into the alcohol, tobacco and other drug service sector, including prevention/early intervention services and pathways as well as treatment/rehabilitation services, both for persons on Drug and Alcohol Treatment Orders and those voluntarily seeking help, to:
- identity current strength and weaknesses;
- access current and future demands; and
- recommend service and funding models that will better meet people’s needs.