Ice Taskforce Report

Increased Commonwealth Investment in Specialist Treatment Sector Welcome

The State and Territory Alcohol and Other Drug Peaks Network welcome the Commonwealth’s commitment
to inject $241.5 million into alcohol and other drug treatment services across Australia. The commitment
was the central piece of the Turnbull Government’s response to the National Ice Taskforce Final Report
released on Sunday.

“We’re pleased the Turnbull Government has recognised the fact we can’t arrest our way out of this problem
and shifted the focus of new investment into treatment and support services for those experiencing
problems related to their methamphetamine use” said Larry Pierce, CEO of NADA.

“While there’s still a way to go to work through the detail of how the funding will be distributed, the network
members are well placed to support the process and ensure the Australian community gets the best return
on this investment” said Jann Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the ATDC.

The report of a recent review of the AOD Treatment system in Australia was also released on Sunday and
highlighted the return on investment, finding for every $1 invested in treatment services, more than $7 is
returned to the community through health and social benefits. The same report found current treatment
services were unable to keep up with demand and suggested the number of treatment places should be
increased.

“It just makes sense to ensure people experiencing problems are able to access the right types of support
and treatment in a timely manner” said Rebecca MacBean, CEO of QNADA. “Reducing demand for alcohol
and drugs is a key component of our National Drug Strategy, one that has languished behind supply
reduction. It is refreshing to see the government recognising the value of treatment and harm reduction”.
A detailed response from the AOD Peaks network can be found on the ATDC website (www.atdc.org.au).
Carolyn Docking Communications Officer