Alcohol has been identified as the substance of most concern among rural and regional health workers (ANCD, 2002a) and research indicates that a greater proportion of men living outside the capital cities in Australia report consuming hazardous levels of alcohol.  (Bull, Melissa, “Crime in Rural Australia”, Federation Press, 2007, pg 73)

“Sometimes the very remoteness of these communities – both indigenous and non-indigenous -  means that alcohol and other drug issues are more pronounced than in metropolitan areas, “ said ADCA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Templeman. “Team that with the reality that there are less support services, and fewer people willing to live and work in some of these areas which adds to the problem.”

The focus on Indigenous People/Rural Australia 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.

“There are programs which have worked in easing the misuse of alcohol and other drugs in remote communities, such as the one implemented by The Fitzroy Valley Alcohol and Other Drug Management Committee, “said Mr Templeman, “We need to share our knowledge to ensure support services in remote areas are operating in effective ways.”

As part of Drug Action Week 2009, frontline workers in the alcohol and other drugs sector will be recognised for their outstanding commitment through the National Drug and Alcohol Awards (NDAA) at Parliament House in Canberra on Friday 26 June.

www.drugactionweek.org.au

Media Enquiries: Brian Flanagan, Manager Strategic Communications & Policy

Phone 02 6281 0686 or 0400 860 058