Rhonda Parker

Rhonda Parker

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    The concerted efforts of WA's strategy against drug abuse recognised in national survey

    11/08/1999 5:26 PM
     
    11/8/99


      The concerted efforts of Western Australia’s strategy against drug abuse has been recognised in a recently released national annual survey by the Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia.

      The Minister Responsible for WA Drug Abuse Strategy Rhonda Parker said the report, Drugs, Money and Government 1997/98, found the state’s response to the drug problem was the second best out of eight Australian states and territories.

      “The Northern Territory, which topped the survey, and Western Australia, were the only jurisdictions where the Government's performance in the area gained an overall positive rating,” Mrs Parker said.

      “The report covered the 1997/98 financial year which was the first year of implementation of the State Government’s Together Against Drugs strategy released in June 1997.

      “It recognised that the Government increased funding for drug related services by 30 per cent between 1996/97 and 1997/98.

      “The Government has increased funding for drug related services even further in subsequent budgets.”

      Mrs Parker said Western Australia was rated first in the nation in:
      • having a clear strategy to address drug problems;
      • ensuring that programs are provided to reduce and prevent drug problems; and -
      • involving communities in programs to address local issues.

      The survey measured Government responses to the drug problem in all states and territories through a survey of 200 key informants working in or having expert knowledge in the drug area.

      “While there is still much to be done, the report is encouraging and indicates that our drug abuse strategy is on the right track,” Mrs Parker said.

      Media contact: Owen Cole 9481 7810