Calls for health-based approach to drug policy

The Network of Alcohol and Drugs Agencies (NADA) CEO Dr Robert Stirling is urging the NSW Government to adopt a health-based approach to drug policy. “This means changing our approach to personal use of drugs so that if people are experiencing issues, they feel safe to ask for help. This also means removing barriers to treatment by increasing funding to expand access to support services,” Stirling said.

Long wait times

The latest data released by NADA shows long wait times for individuals looking to access alcohol and other drug (AOD) services provided by NGOs.

On any given day during the week of 23–27 September 2024, 1819 people were on waitlists for NGO-provided AOD treatment services. This number climbs to 2667 when accounting for individuals on multiple waitlists for various service types.

Stirling said the government cannot afford to wait months to receive a report before it takes action.

“My chief concern is that we will see a repeat of the NSW Ice Inquiry, where a report is drafted, handed down, but reform does not eventuate.

“I am calling on the Premier and his government to show courage and announce a commitment to act at the end of the Summit which puts us on a path towards meaningful reform.

“This cannot be a talkfest filled with platitudes for change. It must lead to real improvements.”

Clear priorities and a central agency

Further analysis released by NADA showcased that in the 2023/24 financial year, the NGO-provided treatment services helped more than 8000 people to achieve a 75% improvement in their psychological health. Furthermore, 69% of those attending these services reported an improvement in their quality of life, and 40% saw a decrease in the severity of their dependence.

These efforts, however, cannot be sustained without further funding.

Stirling said the government must commit to drafting a Drug and Alcohol Strategy which has clear priorities, targets and funding plans.

The average wait time for residential withdrawal services is a concerning 12 to 26 weeks, with almost a quarter of those waiting enduring delays of this length. These figures likely underestimate the true extent of the problem, as they only reflect those waiting for NGO services and do not include those waiting for public or private options.

Stirling said the state’s outdated approach to alcohol and other drug policy is hurting NSW citizens.

“We also need a central agency within the NSW Cabinet Office and Premier’s Department to overcome existing silos and streamline the process, ensuring efficient resource allocation, better data collection and improved accountability.”

Stirling said NADA will continue to work collaboratively with the government.

"We are on the precipice of meaningful alcohol and other drug reform, but we cannot trip at the final hurdle.

“The NSW Government must act decisively and translate the Summit’s discussions into concrete policy changes that prioritise community health and wellbeing as soon as possible.”

A comprehensive approach

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians expressed similar views, calling for a comprehensive approach to drug policy.

RACP President Professor Jennifer Martin said, “Government needs to address drug use from all angles — there is no one silver bullet that will fix the issue because as physicians, we know that a health-focused approach requires a comprehensive understanding of interconnecting issues.

“To prevent harmful use and educate people on the harm of drugs, government needs to ensure that there are well-funded and accessible social supports to address childhood trauma, which is often a precursor to drug use.

“Government must also invest in drug and alcohol treatment services, ensuring that services provided are accessible and effective.

“Each of these elements — education, treatment, prevention and harm reduction — are necessary for effective policy that keeps patients safe and respects their dignity.”

A health lens, not a criminal one?

“To reduce the harm from drugs, the government must consider decriminalisation to keep people from interacting with the justice system, which we know has long-lasting adverse impacts for individuals and communities,” Martin said.

“Evidence shows that criminalisation of drug use for personal possession does not improve any outcomes — not for people who use drugs, their families, and the community.

“Criminalisation also comes at a cost to taxpayers, who bear the burden of financing the criminal justice costs associated with drug-related and non-violent offences.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and Māori peoples are disproportionally affected by harmful and punitive drug policies.

“Governments must be committed to meaningful engagement with priority populations, to ensure care is culturally appropriate, trauma-informed and led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and Māori peoples.

“Australians will see healthier and safer communities when drug policy is addressed using a health lens — not a criminal one,” Martin said.

Image credit: iStock.com/Farion_O