$60,000 for City of Armadale's Drug Aware Ignite Basketball from Healthway
Drug Aware message to reach about 700 young people each year
Program provides opportunities for young people to advance in sport
Basketball coaching from professional players will be the drawcard for getting young people in the Armadale area involved in after-school activities, while learning about the positive impacts of avoiding drug use.
Health Minister John Day said the Liberal National Government's support for the City of Armadale's Drug Aware Ignite Basketball team, through a $60,000 Healthway sponsorship, would take the drug-free message to at-risk young people aged between 11 and 21.
"This partnership will provide about 700 young people with the opportunity to get involved in organised sport," Mr Day said.
"Many of these young people risk being involved in crime and antisocial behaviour, and the Drug Aware Ignite Basketball program will provide them with an outlet for physical activity, and the opportunity to be coached by professionals and learn about healthy lifestyles, including the social and legal consequences of drug use."
Mental Health Minister Andrea Mitchell said the program attracted young people by offering expert coaching and the opportunity to gain accreditation in coaching and umpiring through Basketball WA.
"The principles of the Drug Aware message are embedded in all the activities throughout the year, and the City of Armadale is to be congratulated for developing this unique way of working with so many young people throughout the south-eastern suburbs," Ms Mitchell said.
"This provides a pathway for young people into mainstream sport and encourages them to get involved in their local community."
Mr Day said that the aim was to help increase the number of people choosing healthy lifestyles in the south-east metropolitan region.
Fact File
In 2015-16, Healthway sponsored 12 community events and activities, promoting the Drug Aware message, worth $640,500
Research shows that the Drug Aware campaign is recognised by young people (63%) and parents (51%)
The Drug Aware campaign is run by the Mental Health Commission
Health Minister's office - 6552 6200
Mental Health Minister's office - 6552 5400
