ADCA is calling for the Government to spend the $424 million collected in increased tax on ready-to-drink (RTD) alcohol products (alcopops) to be directed towards both short and long-term prevention measures in order to significantly reduce alcohol-related harm.

ADCA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Templeman, said the money collected over the past year needs to be spent in positive ways to benefit the community.

“I think it’s fitting that this tax revenue raised directly from alcohol sales, is used to address some of the issues that the misuse of that product causes in our communities,” he said.

The focus on Prevention and Treatment is part of a week long campaign called Drug Action Week coordinated by ADCA, which involves communities across the nation organising activities to highlight that Alcohol is a drug – TOO!

Drug Action Week 2009 (June 21-27), gives communities a chance to explore issues related to the harm caused by the misuse of alcohol and other drug issues, and to recognise those who work in frontline support services in the alcohol and other drugs sector.

“Those who work in the fields of prevention and treatment are under tremendous pressure to meet current demands on their services, “said Mr Templeman, “We need to ensure the government is does more to fund these vital services, so that we can promote harm minimisation across the community.”

As part of Drug Action Week 2009, those who work in the areas of prevention and treatment will be recognised for their outstanding commitment through the National Drug and Alcohol Awards (NDAA) at Parliament House in Canberra on Friday 26 June.

More information about Drug Action Week website can be found at www.drugactionweek.org.au 

Media Enquiries: Brian Flanagan, Manager Strategic Communications & Policy