David Littleproud
The South Burnett will get a new drug and alcohol rehabilitation service as the result of a “community ice forum” called by Member for Maranoa David Littleproud in June.
Chinchilla will see the employment of a new full time worker, and existing services in Dalby will be extended after similar forums were held there.
Darling Downs and West Moreton Public Health Network (DDWMPHN) CEO Ms Simone Finch announced on Friday that an extra $293,00 will be spent on the services.
“Chinchilla, Kingaroy and Dalby have been crying out for extra services to combat the methamphetamine problem and this funding will allow for drug and alcohol treatment services to go to places that didn’t have services before,” Ms Finch said.
Funding from the Department of Health’s Drug and Alcohol Program is being allocated by the DDWMPHN on a needs basis, and has taken into account where there is a shortage of commissioned services.
It is complimentary to the Commonwealth’s investment in treatment under the National Ice Action Strategy.
“During the community ice forums hosted by David Littleproud earlier in the year, it became clear there was a need for new drug and alcohol treatment services in Chinchilla and Kingaroy, and increased services in Dalby,” Ms Finch said.
“It is the role of the PHN to provide the right services to the right place, and when extra funds became available we were able to deliver to these towns.”
David Littleproud said he called the community ice forms to facilitate an open and honest discussion, and was pleased real results were going to be felt on the ground to combat addiction.
“That’s why I held these forums – to connect the community with government departments to establish what was working and what wasn’t in different regions,” Mr Littleproud said.
“I’m glad local voices have been heard, with the PHN allocating additional services for a better targeted approach in my electorate.
“While this service boost is a good starting point, we still need more support for rural communities and I will continue to work with the PHN to ensure services continue to improve.”
The new service’s treatment types will include:
- Assessment
- Brief intervention
- Counselling and psychotherapy
- Relapse prevention and group therapy
- Case management
- Intensive non-residential day-stay rehabilitation
While the program has a focus on methamphetamine use treatment, services will be available to people affected by any drug or alcohol misuse.
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