The Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council of Tasmania (ATDC) welcomes the release of the Auditor-General’s compliance audit of the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Services, Tasmania: Future Service Directions – a five year plan, 2008/09-2012/13.
This report provides invaluable objective analysis and commentary about the government’s success in funding and implementing alcohol and other drug programs to Tasmanians.
Jann Smith, CEO of the ATDC, says “it is very positive to see this report making recommendations that focus on the need to improve genuine collaboration between the government, the community sector and the Peak Body”.
“Throughout the implementation of this Plan, we have been calling on the Department of Health and Human Services to fully invest the budget allocation in community sector organisations. Despite this we have seen delays and bureaucratic red tape stall a number of initiatives”.
The audit found that where funding was provided directly to the community sector, there was an increase in services provided to people seeking support.
Further the audit was not satisfied that a model of outreach service provision had been developed. This would enable vital support to people living in regional Tasmania and reduce the harms associated with alcohol and drug use. The audit recommended that the Tasmanian Alcohol and Drug Service funds and supports the community sector to provide outreach services.
According to Jann Smith, “this is an ideal opportunity for the new Minister for Health, The Hon Michael Ferguson, to provide strong direction and leadership to the alcohol and drug sector. Minister Ferguson can ensure that funds are used in the most cost effective manner and directed towards those in greatest need by supporting the alcohol and other drugs community sector.”
Jann Smith, CEO of the ATDC
