News « Alcohol use « Protective & risk factors « Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

Alice Springs mandatory alcohol assessment site announced

19 June 2013

The Northern Territory Government has commenced the roll-out of alcohol mandatory treatment recently announcing the location for the Alice Springs assessment centre.

WA HealthInfoNet post-workshop survey - we need your feedback

14 June 2013

If you have participated in a HealthInfoNet workshop in WA we need your feedback - please take a few minutes to complete this survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Western-Australian-health-workers-survey This survey seeks to find out about the use of our website by workshop participants.

Australian Medical Association criticises NT mandatory alcohol rehabilitation laws

13 June 2013

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) does not support the Northern Territory Government's planned new alcohol laws.

Indigenous woman recognised for distinguished service in health and social welfare programs

11 June 2013

Indigenous woman June Oscar has been appointed an officer in the Order of Australia for leading the campaign to successfully introduce restrictions on the sale of full strength take-away alcohol in Western Australia's Fitzroy valley.

Input sought for substance use policy

22 May 2013

Consultations are being held across the country during May 2013 to inform a new National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples drug strategy (NATSIPDS).

Legislation for mandatory alcohol treatment in Northern Territory unveiled

15 May 2013

The draft bill for mandatory alcohol treatment outlining how the legislation will force problem drinkers into treatment has been unveiled.

Survey finds young Aboriginal people place high value on finding a job

8 May 2013

A recent survey by Mission Australia on Australia's youth has found young Aboriginal people are more likely to be looking for work than their non-Aboriginal peers, however they are notably less likely to feel they can choose to go to university, travel or find a job upon finishing school than the latter group.

Northern Territory program will educate students on fetal alcohol disorder

24 April 2013

Northern Territory Minister for Education, Peter Chandler, has announced the development of programs that will educate students about the problems of Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), and support affected children.

Greater justice for people with FASD

9 April 2013

A report by the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in the West Australian (WA) justice system recommends further training and education to raise awareness of FASD and alternate sentencing options that consider the neurocognitive impairments associated with FASD.

'Beat da binge' campaign reduces drinking for Indigenous communities in Queensland

2 April 2013

A community-initiated binge drinking awareness campaign for Indigenous communities in North Queensland is working, according to new results released this week by researchers at the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) at the University of New South Wales (NSW), James Cook University's Cairns Institute and the University of Newcastle.

FASD resource packs distributed across regional WA

13 March 2013

The West Australian Minister for Mental Health, Helen Morton, has unveiled a set of resources for health workers to use when trying to reduce rates of foetal alcohol syndrome in Indigenous communities.

WA justice system - expensive and ineffective

6 March 2013

A new report on the prison system in Western Australia (WA) calls for increased resources in justice reinvestment and a greater emphasis on evidence-based prevention and early intervention strategies for offending.

Report indicates improvements in health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

1 March 2013

Health trends among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are improving in several areas, according to a report released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).

BushMob helping young people tackle substance use in Alice Springs

28 February 2013

The Australian Government is investing more than $1.8 million in BushMob, a successful program in Alice Springs that helps young people stay free of alcohol and other drugs.

$100 million boost for Aboriginal youth in Northern Territory

20 February 2013

The Australian Government is investing $100 million over the next 10 years in the Youth in communities program, a major initiative that is helping thousands of young Aboriginal people become more engaged with school, work and community life in the Northern Territory.

Free HealthInfoNet workshops in Albany, WA - 11-13 March 2013

20 February 2013

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet will be in Albany, Western Australia delivering free workshops from the 11th - 13th March 2013.

Plan to reduce alcohol and drug toll in Victoria

7 February 2013

The Minister for Mental Health, the Hon.

Social Justice Commissioner welcomes new report on prison vs residential treatment

6 February 2013

A new report by Deloitte Access Economics highlights the cost and health benefits of diversionary programs and community residential rehabilitation for Indigenous peoples who have been convicted of non-violent, substance use related offences.

Alcohol a key factor in suicide within Northern Territory

30 January 2013

A new study has identified alcohol use as strongly associated with suicide in Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory.

HealthInfoNet workshops in the South West of WA - Bunbury and Busselton

24 January 2013

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet will be in the South West of WA delivering free workshops from the 11th - 15th February 2013.

Report of the Inquiry into Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders released; National Action Plan recommended

6 December 2012

On 29 November 2012, the report of the Inquiry into Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders - FASD: the hidden harm.

Young Aboriginal researcher wins Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) Award

22 November 2012

A young Aboriginal researcher's commitment to helping Indigenous Australians address alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems in their own communities was recognised with a national award.

Grog in the Territory: summit outcomes

21 November 2012

A summit on alcohol policy and its impact on Aboriginal people and communities was held in Darwin on Friday 16 November 2012.

National Drug Research Institute releases report on alcohol supply in Central Australia

12 November 2012

The National Drug Research Institute has just released a new study on alcohol supply and control in Central Australia.

New standards for Alcohol Management Plans in NT proposed as part of Stronger Futures package

9 November 2012

The Australian Government released draft minimum standards for Alcohol Management Plans (AMPs) yesterday (8 November), which are designed to help improve safety for Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory (NT).

HealthInfoNet cafe @ Local Drug Action Groups 2012 state conference in Perth

1 November 2012

The Local Drug Action Groups Inc.

Mary G touring WA Goldfields to promote 'No grog no drugs' message

25 October 2012

Mary G, the 'Queen of the Kimberley' is currently on a tour around the Goldfields towns of Western Australia (WA).

New study to investigate cognitive response to thiamine among alcohol users

19 October 2012

A new project run by Menzies School of Health Research aims to investigate thiamine levels among heavy alcohol users.

Study shows possible link between alcohol price and assaults in Alice Springs

17 October 2012

Results from a study show a correlation between higher alcohol prices in Alice Springs and fewer assaults on Aboriginal women, researchers say.

New Pilbara liquor restrictions now in place

8 October 2012

Liquor restrictions are being put in place in certain towns in the Pilbara region of Western Australia (WA), following consideration of police evidence and public comments.

Low Aromatic Fuel Bill 2012 not recommended to proceed by Australian Parliament

3 October 2012

The Central Australian Aboriginal Congress has expressed its dismay at the news that the Senate Committee has recommended that the Low Aromatic Fuel Bill should not proceed.

Report into Aboriginal service delivery in the Northern Territory (NT) makes 12 recommendations

2 October 2012

A report into spending on service delivery in remote Aboriginal communities recommends a reassessment of priorities and greater transparency.

Peak Indigenous body calls for mandatory alcohol labelling; recognition of FASD in Australia

26 September 2012

The peak Indigenous body in Australia, National Congress of Australia's First Peoples, has called for mandatory labelling and health warnings about the risks associated with drinking.

HealthInfoNet workshops coming to the Gascoyne/Midwest in November

20 September 2012

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet workshops are coming to the Gascoyne/Midwest region in November.

Live Longer! Campaign recent grant recipients announced

18 September 2012

The Minister for Indigenous health, Mr Warren Snowdon has announced the latest round of grant recipients for the Local community campaigns to promote better Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health (Live longer! campaign).

Cannabis use increasing with alcohol restrictions in remote areas

18 September 2012

Blanket alcohol restrictions in remote regions are being blamed for the increasing rates of cannabis use and a corresponding rise in episodes of psychosis in Cape York, Queensland.

Elders take action over growing substance use problems

14 September 2012

In Adelaide, a group of Elders are raising awareness of drug and alcohol issues.

New online resource for Australia's Indigenous Healthy Lifestyle Workers

13 September 2012

An online portal to support Australia's Healthy Lifestyle Workers was launched this week by the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet.

New Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) national plan endorsed by national experts

12 September 2012

A proposed national plan to reduce the incidence of the most common preventable cause of developmental disability in Australia, Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), has been endorsed by the country's leading FASD experts.

Standard on culturally secure practice in the AOD sector launched

4 September 2012

Minister for Mental Health, Helen Morton, launched the Standard on culturally secure practice (alcohol and other drug sector) [1st Ed.] on 28 August 2012.

HealthInfoNet workshops in the Pilbara (now including Newman)

4 September 2012

The HealthInfoNet will be in the Pilbara next week delivering free workshops from September 10th to the 17th.

New contracts awarded to AOD services in the Kimberley and Pilbara

29 August 2012

Eight new contracts have been awarded to alcohol and other drug services in the Kimberley and Pilbara region of Western Australia (WA).

Researchers find link between alcohol use and age-related macular degeneration

28 August 2012

Researchers at the Centre for Eye Research Australia (CERA) have found a connection between moderate levels of alcohol use and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

HealthInfoNet workshops in the Pilbara

27 August 2012

There are still places available to participate in upcoming Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet (AIH) workshops in the Pillbara region of Western Australia (WA).

Newslines Radio broadcast tackles the topic of FASD

21 August 2012

A recent Newslines Radio broadcast (August 2012 - program two) focuses on the issue of Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) among the Indigenous population.

Inaugural WA alcohol and other drug excellence award winners announced

21 August 2012

The inaugural Western Australian (WA) alcohol and other drug (AOD) excellence awards winners were recently announced by Mental Health Minister, Helen Morton.

Strong spirit strong mind metro campaign launched by Mental Health Minister

14 August 2012

On 5 August, the Minister for Mental Health launched the Strong spirit strong mind metro project campaign.

Research on alcohol use among Indigenous Qld inmates indicates more treatment options are needed

7 August 2012

New research shows Indigenous prisoners in Queensland (Qld) are twice as likely to have alcohol-related problems than other inmates.

HealthInfoNet attending the Western Australian drug and alcohol conference on 7 August

6 August 2012

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet will be running a cafe tomorrow the 7 August (2012) at the Western Australian drug and alcohol conference.

NSW Aboriginal prenatal health campaign to raise awareness of services available to pregnant women

31 July 2012

A new campaign to raise awareness among Aboriginal women about the risks of alcohol and other drug consumption during pregnancy was launched on 27 July, 2012.

HealthInfoNet workshops in the Kimberley

31 July 2012

The HealthInfoNet will be in the Kimberley next week delivering free workshops from August 6th to the 17th.

SBS podcast interview on raising awareness of FASD in Indigenous communities

30 July 2012

A recent SBS podcast, hosted by Peggy Giakoumelos, covers the topic of Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).

National Preventive Health Research Strategy (2012-2016) Consultation Draft - Invitation to comment

26 July 2012

Promoting a healthy Australia (The Australian National Preventive Health Agency) invites submissions for the second consultation process to develop the National preventive health research strategy 2012-2016.

Positive responses received from HealthInfoNet Substance use survey

23 July 2012

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet recently conducted a survey on the substance use section of its website - including alcohol use, illicit drug use, volatile substance use, and tobacco use.

Boodjari yorga program improves birth outcomes for Aboriginal women

18 July 2012

A program designed to reduce pregnancy and birth problems for Aboriginal women is breaking down cultural barriers and making important inroads into improving maternal and child health in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia (WA).

Community of Cheeditha to become the 16th in north-west WA declared alcohol-free

4 July 2012

The community of Cheeditha is set to become the 16th in north-west Western Australia (WA) to be declared alcohol-free.

Application lodged for Indigenous substance use rehabilitation facility in Canberra

29 June 2012

A development application for a substance use rehabilitation facility for Indigenous people has been lodged with the ACT Planning and Land Authority.

No alcohol is the safest choice campaign targets pregnant women

26 June 2012

No alcohol is the safest option when pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, according to a new Western Australian (WA) campaign designed to educate women about drinking alcohol during pregnancy.&nbsp;The first of its kind in Australia, the No alcohol is the safest choice campaign is aimed at women of child-bearing age who may consume low to moderate amounts of alcohol.

2012 National Drug and Alcohol Award winners announced

25 June 2012

The 2012 National Drug and Alcohol Award winners were announced on Friday 22 June at the Plaza Ballroom in Melbourne.

Indigenous Wellbeing Centre takes part in Drug action week campaign

21 June 2012

The Indigenous Wellbeing Centre, located in Bundaberg, Queensland, will provide information on alcohol and illicit drug use as part of national Drug action week, running from 17-23 June 2012.

Funding announced for national alcohol and other drug research centres

21 June 2012

Minister for Mental Health, Mark Butler, announced on 20 June 2012 that $24 million over three years is to be invested into alcohol and other drug (AOD) research.

National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Awards winners announced

11 June 2012

The winners of the inaugural National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Awards were announced on Thursday 7 June, 2012, during the 2nd National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) conference.

Handbook for Aboriginal alcohol and drug work launched at NIDAC conference today

7 June 2012

The Handbook for Aboriginal alcohol and drug work was launched today (7 June 2012) at the National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) conference in Fremantle, Western Australia (WA).

National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee releases position paper on FASD

7 June 2012

The National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) released its position paper on Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) on the opening day of the NIDAC conference (6 June 2012).

National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol (NIDAC) conference underway tomorrow, 6 June

5 June 2012

The 2nd National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee&nbsp;(NIDAC) conference is underway from tomorrow 6 June, 2012, at the Esplanade Hotel, Fremantle, in Western Australia (WA).

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet named a finalist for the National Drug and Alcohol Awards 2012

29 May 2012

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet was recently nominated in the National Drug and Alcohol Awards 2012 for its work on the substance use section of its website.

Community representatives and services working together on Ceduna alcohol management

24 May 2012

Representatives of Indigenous communities and services came together at Ceduna Foreshore Hotel on May 8, 2012, for discussions on the issue of alcohol consumption among the Indigenous population in Ceduna, South Australia (SA).

Three year extension of funding granted to some AOD service providers

24 May 2012

Following recent announcements that some alcohol and other drug (AOD) service providers would no longer receive Federal Government funding as part of the Budget 2012-13, some services have been granted a three-year reprieve.

Call for further remote area rehabilitation services

23 May 2012

An Aboriginal legal aid organisation says the Northern Territory (NT) Government must provide more alcohol rehabilitation services in remote Indigenous communities.

Do you use the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet's substance use section? Take our survey

22 May 2012

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet is undertaking a survey to find out information on users accessing the website, particularly its 'substance use' section.

Qld Government to review current alcohol management plans in Indigenous communities

11 May 2012

Alcohol management plans were among the topics of discussion when new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Minister Glen Elmes met far north Queensland (Qld) mayors in Cairns on 5 May 2012.

Applications open for Criminal property confiscation grants program

9 May 2012

Attorney General Christian Porter launched the latest round of the Criminal property confiscation grants program on 2 May 2012.

Call for responses to inquiry into improving educational outcomes for Western Australians

8 May 2012

The Western Australian Education and Health Standing Committee is currently undertaking a parliamentary inquiry into improving educational outcomes for Western Australians of all ages.

Further legislation introduced to support NT alcohol reforms

7 May 2012

New legislation was passed in the Northern Territory (NT) parliament on 3 May 2012, which expands on the existing alcohol reforms.

Government funding withdrawn from successful SA substance use treatment service

3 May 2012

The Federal Government has withdrawn funding from a South Australian (SA) Aboriginal community controlled organisation after 38 years of operation.

DoHA shortlists applicants for substance use funding initiatives

2 May 2012

The Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) has now assessed and shortlisted organisations who submitted applications for funding to address substance use issues.

Northern Territory Budget 2012 delivers $20 million investment into correctional services

26 April 2012

A $20.2 million investment in correctional services was announced by Correctional Services Minister Gerry McCarthy on 22 April 2012.

Bourke community to launch awareness campaign targeting alcohol and other drug use

24 April 2012

On Wednesday 2 May 2012, the Bourke Alcohol and drug working group (BAWG) will launch an alcohol and other drug awareness campaign in Bourke, New South Wales (NSW).

Indigenous drink driving licensing kit available for Western Australians

24 April 2012

The Office of Road Safety in Western Australia (WA), on behalf of the Road Safety Council, has created an educational resource to make the process of getting a driver's licence easier, and to spread the word about drink driving.

Further research sparks renewed call for minimum floor price for alcohol

18 April 2012

A research report released by the Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation of Darwin has revealed new statistics about its homeless population.

Broome licensees applying for Royalties for regions grant to manage alcohol sales

17 April 2012

Broome licensees will be applying for a grant of at least $75,000 through the Western Australian (WA) Royalties for regions program, the resultant funding of which will go towards implementing a trial of ID scanning technology to identify banned patrons and problem drinkers.

Safe and sober support service - making a difference in Alice Springs

11 April 2012

The Safe and sober support service, an alcohol and other drug treatment service in Alice Springs, is making a difference in the community.

Driver training courses take L-plates to outback

3 April 2012

A new driver education program is being rolled out in remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.

Dual-purpose alcohol and other drug centre to open in Carnarvon

2 April 2012

A new centre providing day and night treatment services for people in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia (WA) with alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems is set to open.

Funding boost for Northern Territory communities: Stronger futures initiative

30 March 2012

A $619 million funding boost will improve services in remote communities across the Northern Territory (NT) for the next 10 years, as part of the Stronger futures in the Northern Territory package.

Reducing alcohol and other drug use in remote Northern Territory communities

30 March 2012

The Australian Government is investing $2.31 million to tackle the impact of alcohol and other drug use in Katherine, Tiwi, the Daly region, and the greater Darwin region in the Northern Territory (NT).

Liquor amendment bill introduced to Territory parliament

29 March 2012

Minister for Alcohol Policy, Delia Lawrie, has introduced legislation to the Northern Territory (NT) parliament, expanding the NT Government's world-first alcohol reforms, which target anti-social behavior.

Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance NT wants floor price for alcohol

27 March 2012

The peak body for Aboriginal health services in the Northern Territory (NT), the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance NT (AMSANT), says Australia should follow Britain's lead and introduce a floor price on alcohol.

National Congress of Australia's First Peoples calls for justice target

23 March 2012

The Indigenous representative body of Australia, the National Congress of Australia's First Peoples, has recently called for a target relating to justice be added to existing Closing the Gap targets which are monitored by Australian governments.

Midnight basketball program helps reduce youth crime in Kempsey

22 March 2012

The New South Wales town of Kempsey has implemented a social inclusion program for its youth to help reduce substance use and criminal activity.

HealthInfoNet workshops: helping to 'close the gap' in Indigenous health

20 March 2012

To increase access to its web resource and build the capacity of the frontline health workforce - and to assist the health workforce in 'closing the gap' in Indigenous health - the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet will deliver a program of free workshops across Western Australia (WA) over 18 months from April 2012.

Fines may be introduced to help enforce dry communities

20 March 2012

On-the-spot fines could be handed out for alcohol possession in dry Aboriginal communities around Australia.

Recipients of Strong spirit strong mind awards announced

15 March 2012

The Strong spirit strong mind awards were announced on the 14 March 2012 at the Western Australian (WA) Aboriginal drug and alcohol worker forum.

Efforts to reduce alcohol-related violence meet with mixed success

9 March 2012

There are mixed results in efforts to increase school attendance and lower alcohol-related violence and hospital admissions in Indigenous communities in Queensland, according to the state Government's own report card.

Nation-wide grants announced for research into preventive health

6 March 2012

Almost $4 million in research funding has been allocated nation-wide to 13 new projects that will investigate ways to prevent the harm caused by obesity, tobacco and harmful use of alcohol.

Victorian healing program a success for Indigenous participants

5 March 2012

A unique Aboriginal initiative in Victoria is helping break the cycle of addiction and despair by combining indigenous spirituality with conventional treatment.

Extra funding for Indigenous communities to address substance use

1 March 2012

Certain Indigenous communities will receive extra funding under the government's Breaking the cycle of alcohol and drug abuse in Indigenous communities initiative.

Northern Territory alcohol reforms still lowering crime rate

29 February 2012

The Northern Territory (NT) Government's alcohol reforms, stage one of which was effective from 1 July 2011, have been deemed a success by the Minister for Alcohol Policy, Delia Lawrie.

New Indigenous mental health web resource launched

22 February 2012

A new web resource for Indigenous social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) workers is now available on the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet website.

Indigenous community leaders request alcohol ban in Ngaru village

22 February 2012

Indigenous community leaders from the Ngaru village on the far north coast of New South Wales (NSW) have requested that alcohol be banned in the community.

Legislation needed to regulate alcohol purchases in north-west Western Australia

21 February 2012

According to Shadow Racing and Gaming Minister Mick Murray in a statement on 20 February 2012, the Western Australian Government should introduce legislation to regulate alcohol purchases in Broome and the West Kimberley to combat alcohol abuse.

Funding recipients announced for community level projects to combat risky drinking among youth

14 February 2012

The Australian Government has announced the funding recipients of the third round of grants under the community level initiative that are part of the National binge drinking strategy.

Tennant Creek sobering up shelter to open in February 2012

10 February 2012

A $1.6 million sobering-up shelter will open in Tennant Creek next week, replacing an older facility which was demolished.

Nominations open for Strong Spirit Strong Mind Awards 2012

31 January 2012

The Strong Spirit Strong Mind Awards are being presented by the Western Australian Network of Alcohol and other Drug Agencies (WANADA) in 2012, as part of the Aboriginal alcohol and other drugs (AOD) worker forum being held in Perth from 14-15 March.

Six Kimberley homes declared alcohol-free zones

24 January 2012

Six homes in Western Australia's Kimberley region have been declared alcohol-free as part of a new scheme to reduce the impact of alcohol in Aboriginal communities.

Call for national plan to combat Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders

19 January 2012

The Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) and the Public Health Association of Australia have called for a comprehensive Commonwealth-led national action plan to tackle Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).&nbsp;FASD is the most common preventable cause of birth defects in Australia.

New funding and upgrade for the South East Metropolitan Community Drug Service

17 January 2012

The South East Metropolitan Community Drug Service (SEMCDS) has received state Government funding towards an upgrade and new premises in Thornlie, Western Australia.

Time to nominate excellent local governments (Indigenous, rural health, roads and more...)

12 January 2012

Entries are now being sought for a competition that recognises local government achievements in Indigenous community engagement, reconciliation, rural and remote health and improving services to remote communities.

Western Australia's largest Aboriginal community applies for liquor ban

21 December 2011

Western Australia's largest Aboriginal community, Bidyadanga, is applying to have the State's toughest alcohol restrictions introduced.

Australia's first Indigenous youth alcohol and other drug rehabilitation facility opens

19 December 2011

On December 15, the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) celebrated the opening of Bunjilwarra, the first Australian alcohol and other drug rehabilitation facility dedicated to helping young Aboriginal people.

Healthy Lifestyle Worker toolkit launched

13 December 2011

The Director of the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet, Professor Neil Thomson, today attended the Canberra launch of a new Healthy Lifestyle Worker toolkit to help tackle chronic disease in Indigenous communities.

Halls Creek benefits from alcohol restrictions; new health worker positions

9 December 2011

The Drug and Alcohol Office has released a report on 8 December 2011, on the impact of liquor restrictions in Halls Creek, Western Australia.

New alcohol and other drug worker positions for north-west WA under Royalties for regions program

9 December 2011

Up to 31 alcohol and other drug worker positions will be created to expand treatment, prevention and counselling services across the Kimberley and Pilbara regions of Western Australia.

Banned drinkers register successful in reducing assault in Northern Territory

8 December 2011

Northern Territory Police Commissioner John McRoberts says there has been a 16% reduction in the number of reported assaults in Alice Springs since the banned drinkers register started.

Alcohol, pregnancy and FASD: new website available from TICHR

5 December 2011

A new website has recently been launched by the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research (TICHR).

King Brown country: the betrayal of Papunya wins Walkley Award

29 November 2011

Russell Skelton has won the 2011 Walkley Award for long-form journalism for his book King Brown country: the betrayal of Papunya.

Stronger Futures legislation proposed today

23 November 2011

The Government will today introduce its Stronger futures legislation into Parliament.

Australian of the Year award goes to spokesperson for the People's Alcohol Action Coalition reform group

16 November 2011

Medical campaigner Dr John Boffa has been named the Northern Territory's Australian of the Year 2012 and presented with his award by The Hon Paul Henderson MLA, Chief Minister of the Northern Territory (NT).

New measures to tackle alcohol, jobs, education in NT

15 November 2011

The Australian Government has today announced new initiatives to tackle alcohol abuse, school attendance and employment in remote communities in the Northern Territory (NT).

Indigenous social worker from WA acknowledged for remarkable contributions

10 November 2011

Associate Professor Dawn Bessarab from the Aboriginal Health and Education Unit, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, has won a 2011 Social Worker of the Year award.

Inquiry into foetal alcohol spectrum disorder requested

10 November 2011

On 8 November 2011 the Ministers for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, and Health and Ageing, asked the Parliamentary Committee to inquire into and report on the incidence and prevention of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).

Lililwan project receives further funding

9 November 2011

The Lililwan project is a community-led strategy developed to address Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in the Fitzroy Valley of Western Australia.

Liquor Control Amendment Act 2011 allows enforcement of alcohol-free zones

4 November 2011

Part 3 of the Liquor Control Amendment Act 2011 relating to Liquor Restricted Premises was proclaimed on 8 October 2011.

Northern Territory alcohol reforms see reduction in alcohol-related crime

27 October 2011

The Territory Government's Enough is enough alcohol reforms are having an immediate impact by cutting crime across the Territory, statistics released recently show.

Australian Capital Territory gets $1.2 million funding to improve health outcomes

26 October 2011

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Chief Minister and Minister for Health, Katy Gallagher, announced on 23 October 2011, funding of $1.2 million through the ACT health promotions grant program to promote good health and prevent chronic disease.

More Indigenous Australians accessing targeted health services

26 October 2011

There was a significant increase in the use of services targeted at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in 2009-10 compared with the previous year, according to a report released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).

Government releases NT consultation report

24 October 2011

The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Jenny Macklin released the Stronger futures in the Northern Territory consultation report in Alice Springs last week.

BushMob's bush adventure therapy program success

21 October 2011

A Bush adventure therapy program run by BushMob has experienced success in its fourth year, through its annual horse trek.

$39.8 million in health and medical research to help close the gap

19 October 2011

The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, and the Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, today announced 53 National Health and Medical Research Council grants focusing on Indigenous health.

Raising awareness of petrol sniffing in urban South Australia

10 October 2011

Professional educators Warren Miller and Jimmy Perry spend most of the year travelling through rural and remote South Australia, trying to divert people in Aboriginal communities away from petrol sniffing.

Health workers honoured at the Deadly Awards

28 September 2011

The 17th Deadly Awards were held at the Sydney Opera House on the 27 September 2011, recognising outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievements in sport, the arts, music and health.

New rehabilitation services available in the East Kimberley

14 September 2011

Stage two of the Ngnowar Aerwah 7 Mile Residential Rehabilitation Facility service was officially opened in Wyndham on 8 September 2011.

International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day

9 September 2011

The 9th of September is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day.

Kimberley liquor restriction benefits seen firsthand

30 August 2011

The Western Australian Racing and Gaming Minister Terry Waldron says he has been buoyed by a visit to West Kimberley Aboriginal communities that are under the state's strictest type of liquor restrictions.

Northern Territory alcohol reform awareness campaigns

29 August 2011

The Enough is enough alcohol reforms, introduced in the Northern Territory as part of their Alcohol management plans, will now also be supported by community awareness campaigns.

Steps to success liquor accords workshops planned around NSW

24 August 2011

A series of 48 workshops is planned across metropolitan, regional and rural New South Wales over the next nine months.

$10m in community projects to reduce risky drinking

24 August 2011

As part of the Gillard Government's National binge drinking strategy, communities around Australia will receive funding for projects to combat risky drinking.

Indigenous Football Festival message: cannabis and sport don't mix

19 August 2011

Educational messages on mixing alcohol and other drug use and physical activity were delivered at the Indigenous Football Festival recently in Alice Springs.

New Victorian alcohol and other drug strategy - call for public submissions

15 August 2011

The Coalition Government has announced a new whole of government strategy to address alcohol and other drug (AOD) use in Victoria.

Health warnings now on popular alcoholic drinks labels

12 July 2011

Beginning from 12 July, approximately 80% of alcohol drinks sold in Australia will have 'cigarette-style' health warnings on their labels.

Community takes drastic action against alcohol

7 July 2011

The remote community of Binjari, 15km from Katherine and with only 150 residents, has experienced 10 deaths due to alcohol related causes in the past eight years.

FASD Bill introduced into Parliament

24 June 2011

A Bill was introduced into Australian Parliament for an Act to amend the law relating to social security and family assistance, and for other purposes.

Measures implemented to minimise alcohol consumption in Alice Springs

23 June 2011

The Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, has congratulated Coles for showing community leadership by implementing measures to minimise alcohol consumption in Alice Springs.

Nationwide studies funded to address Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder

21 June 2011

Seven nationwide studies are being funded to address Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in Australia.

Rehabilitation centre to open in Port Hedland

17 June 2011

Port Hedland's first alcohol and other drug rehabilitation centre is set to open in mid-2012.

WA state budget 2011-12: alcohol and other drug sector

8 June 2011

The Minister for Mental Health and Disability Services Helen Morton announced funding for the alcohol and other drug (AOD) sector in a budget bulletin 2011-12.

Raising awareness of alcohol`s impact on the developing brain

6 June 2011

The forum: Brain development and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) was held on 27 May by the McCusker Centre for Action on Youth and Alcohol and brought together researchers and other professionals to discuss what can be done to prevent harm to young people resulting from their own or another's alcohol use.

$150m transformation plan brings hope to Alice Springs

30 May 2011

The Federal Government has invested $150 million as part of the Alice Springs transformation plan, a direct spin-off from an intervention which involved opening the Apmere Mwerre Visitor Park, a new hostel surrounded by a high security fence, where residents are vetted and alcohol is banned.

Alcohol reforms public awareness campaign

30 May 2011

Minister for Alcohol Policy, Delia Lawrie, and Police Commissioner John McRoberts launched an advertising campaign on 23 May to prepare those living in the Northern Territory for the Enough is enough alcohol reforms, which will take effect from July 1, 2011.

Kunawarritji declared grog-free

26 May 2011

Kunawarritji, an Aboriginal community in Western Australia's East Pilbara has become the 15th in the state to be declared alcohol-free.

$160m to Indigenous alcohol and other drug initiatives in WA

25 May 2011

An increase in mining royalties to more than $4 billion in 2012 has given a bonus to the WA government's Royalties for Regions scheme.

Budget 2011-12: alcohol and other drug services

12 May 2011

The Government has announced the new budget for 2011-12, including funding for the alcohol and other drug (AOD) sector.

Research informs treatment of petrol and alcohol users

10 May 2011

Research by Menzies School of Health Research at Charles Darwin University (CDU) is improving understanding of the treatment and prevention of chronic petrol and alcohol use.

New look DrugInfo website launched

9 May 2011

The new look Australian Drug Foundation (ADF) DrugInfo website and email alert service was launched on 4 May 2011 at the 6th International Conference on Drugs and Young People.

NT government poised to introduce tougher grog laws

5 May 2011

The Northern Territory government is likely to pass its new alcohol laws after winning the support of Independent Member for Nelson, Gerry Wood.

Growing community support to reduce the availability of alcohol

4 May 2011

Residents of a West Australian town which experiences significantly higher rates of binge drinking than the state average want to mend their hard-drinking reputation.

More substance use treatment services needed

29 April 2011

The drug policy group Anex is calling for better treatment services for alcohol and other drug use in regional areas such as the Far West.

Second NT intervention on table

21 April 2011

A second Federal intervention into the Northern Territory is being considered by Indigenous Affairs Minister Jenny Macklin.

Mick Gooda backs grog ban in pregnancy

18 April 2011

Changes planned for alcohol ID cards

18 April 2011

About 11,000 people in Alice Springs and Katherine will need to obtain other forms of identification to buy alcohol later this year.

Minimum alcohol price a must, says Gooda

12 April 2011

Indigenous Social Justice Commissioner Mick Gooda is lobbying for a minimum alcohol price in the Northern Territory.

Liquor bans announced for two Kimberley communities

5 April 2011

The Aboriginal communities of Looma and Pandanus Park in the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley will be declared restricted areas under section 175 of the Liquor Control Act 1988 according to Racing and Wagering Minister Terry Waldron.

NT Govt to introduce 'toughest' grog laws in country

5 April 2011

Chief Minister Paul Henderson says a bill being introduced to Parliament on Wednesday will target problem drinkers as well as giving more powers to the Licensing Commission.

Calls for alcohol treatment centres in every Kimberley town

25 March 2011

Chief Minister rejected Federal Opposition leader Tony Abbott's call for another intervention

25 March 2011

Binge drinking program reduces emergency department presentations

25 March 2011

The Drink safe community initiative has been running programs in Broken Hill since 2008 to the promote community awareness and educate young people on the dangers of binge drinking.

AER Foundation calls for action to stop irresponsible discounting of alcohol

25 March 2011

Drug Foundation applauds Vic Govt for new law to protect kids from alcohol supply

25 March 2011

The Australian Drug Foundation today commended the Victorian Government for their move to protect children from alcohol harm by introducing Victoria's first secondary supply law.

Work to begin on new Tennant Creek sobering up shelter

9 March 2011

The Department of Health and Ageing's Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, has released a joint statement with the Northern Territory Minister for Construction, Gerry McCarthy, indicating that the construction of a new facility in Tennant Creek providing care and supervision for people needing somewhere to 'sober up' is to go ahead.

Substance use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

8 February 2011

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has just released a report on substance use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, focusing on the three main areas of tobacco use, alcohol consumption and illicit drug use (including petrol sniffing).

Alcohol free zones in two Pilbara communities

7 October 2010

On Wednesday, 6 October 2010, WA Racing and Gaming Minister Terry Waldron declared two East Pilbara Aboriginal communities alcohol-free zones.

Liquor restrictions announced for three more communities

4 August 2010

West Australian Racing and Gaming Minister Terry Waldron declared restricted areas under section 175 of the Liquor Control Act 1988 for the Aboriginal communities of Kundat Djaru (Ringer Soak), Nicholson Block and Koongie Park in the Shire of Halls Creek.

Fetal alcohol study set up

17 July 2010

Marulu: The Lililwan Project, launched on Saturday the 17 July 2010, is Australia's first study into the prevalence and impact of foetal alcohol sprectrum disorder among Indigenous children.

Govt to buy back liquor licences in Alice

14 July 2010

The Federal Government will buy back three Alice Springs liquor licences to reduce alcohol-related violence in the town.

Voluntary alcohol restrictions lead to big drop in assaults and hospital admissions

12 July 2010

Alcohol restrictions requested by the local Norseman Aboriginal community and supported by the whole community have resulted in significant harm reduction: the evaluation of the Norseman Voluntary Liquor Agreement found a 60% decrease in alcohol-related hospital admissions; a 17% reduction in assaults; a 10% reduction in police tasks; and a 10% decrease in per capita alcohol consumption.

Health advisory labels on alcoholic beverages

7 July 2010

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has been working on two projects involving the labelling of alcoholic beverages.

National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Conference (NIDAC)

21 June 2010

The inaugural NIDAC conference was held at the Adelaide convention centre on the 16 - 18 June 2010.

New review now available: The harmful use of alcohol among Indigenous Australians

14 June 2010

A review of the harmful use of alcohol among Indigenous Australians is now available on the Indigenous alcohol use web resource.

Indigenous mayors up in arms at grog ban

9 June 2010

Alcohol bans will stay in place in Indigenous communities despite the warnings from Indigenous mayors that the State Government's Alcohol Management Plan is making "criminals" out of Aboriginal people.

Residents fear grog ban silence

9 June 2010

Residents of the small opal mining town of Mintabie in South Australia's far north are worried about the new alcohol restrictions that will be implemented next month which are aimed at preventing alcohol smuggling to surrounding Aboriginal lands.

Social worker pleads for Indigenous detox centre

6 June 2010

A social worker in Mount Isa has called for the establishment of a detoxification centre to address the high number of Indigenous residents battling with alcohol and other drug issues.

Next stage of national binge drinking campaign kicks off to support Indigenous youth

3 June 2010

The Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, said the campaign called Your Life, Your Culture, YOU CHOOSE! has been designed to bring Indigenous youth together at events with their local communities and health professionals to promote alternatives to binge drinking.

New scheme considered to stop sly grogging

2 June 2010

New report released: The health and welfare of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

28 May 2010

The latest results from national statistical collections on the health and wellbeing of Australia's Indigenous population have been revealed today with the release of The health and welfare of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 2010.

Indigenous group responds to claims

19 May 2010

A group of young Aboriginal people have hit back at claims that violence and a lack of respect in Cabarita is representative of the area's whole Aboriginal community.

AER responds to 2010/11 federal budget: $50 million for binge drinking welcomed, but far from comprehensive alcohol reform

12 May 2010

The Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Foundation (AER) today acknowledged the extension to the Federal Government's National Binge Drinking Strategy.

ADCA: Alcohol and other Drugs - "In or Out of Health Reform?"

10 May 2010

The Federal Government Budget investment in the national binge drinking strategy is welcomed, says Mr David Templeman, CEO of the Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia, but this will not be enough to significantly reduce alcohol related harm in Australia.

Alcohol 'primary cause' of Aboriginal violence

9 May 2010

The Australian Institute of Criminology has released a report, titled Indigenous perpetrators of violence: prevalence and risk factors for offending, that identifies several risk factors among offenders that contribute to a greater likelihood of carrying out violent crime; namely alcohol and access to pornography.