The Namatjira Haven Drug & Alcohol Healing Centre in Alstonville has been given funding certainty for another year by a Federal Government decision.
Federal member for Page Kevin Hogan said today Namatjira Haven could continue to offer long term treatment and rehabilitation programmes, as a result of the Government’s decision.
Mr Hogan said the Assistant Minister for Health, Senator Fiona Nash, had extended funding to approximately 160 alcohol and drug treatment organisations until 30 June 2016.
“The Government has now allocated $87 million in 2015-16 for alcohol and drug treatment activities provided by non-government organisations,” he said.
“This decision means Namatjira Haven and others across Australia can continue to offer their services to help individuals and families affected by substance abuse.
“Minimising the harm associated with alcohol and other drug misuse to individuals, families and communities is an important priority for the Government.”
Mr Hogan said a review of the drug and alcohol treatment services sector, commissioned by the Department of Health, was currently under consideration by the Commonwealth and state and territory governments.
“The review was initiated in 2013 to examine the duplication and overlap between services and propose a better way forward,” he said.
“Extending funding for another 12 months will provide clarity and certainty for Namatjira Haven and others in the alcohol and other drug sector while these longer term plans are developed.”
Mr Hogan said the review’s findings required further analysis and consultation between the Commonwealth, states and territories, all of which provided funding for alcohol and other drug treatment.
Commonwealth funding provides treatment and support to individuals including mothers, teenagers and older Australians, as well as families and communities affected by substance misuse.
