People at risk of harm from alcohol and other drug use in Southwestern Sydney will benefit from enhanced support and treatment services, thanks to a substantial funding boost from the NSW Government. As part of a $224 million state-wide initiative over the next four years, $78 million has been specifically allocated to enhance health services across Greater Sydney.

South Western Sydney will receive critical funding to address the unique needs of priority population groups, including Aboriginal people, pregnant women, individuals with mental health conditions, young people, and those involved in the criminal justice system. Key allocations within this funding include:

·         $2.7 million over four years for the creation of an integrated Aboriginal health team in South Western Sydney. This team will work in partnership with local Aboriginal community-controlled services to provide holistic and collaborative care. 

·         $6.3 million over four years for the establishment of an Alcohol and Other Drugs and Mental Health Care Navigation team in South Western Sydney. The new approach will include more assertive follow up and care navigation, with a focus on the most complex, vulnerable consumers.

Additionally, the funding will support:

·         $10 million over four years to establish inpatient withdrawal management services in Western Sydney.

·         Expansion of access to treatment and support for participants of the Magistrates Early Referral into Treatment (MERIT) program, including increased access to withdrawal management and residential rehabilitation services provided by non-government organizations.

·         Delivery of the Pathways Home program by the Community Restorative Centre (CRC), providing counselling to young people aged 12-17 and young adults aged 18-24 who are involved with the criminal justice system and require help with alcohol and other drug use.

An extra $29.8 million will be allocated to expand vital programs such as the Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Services, the Assertive Community Management program, comorbidity services, and the provision of specialist support in hospitals. This investment also includes significant support for the alcohol and other drug workforce, including key clinical roles and the growth of the Aboriginal and lived experience workforces.

This targeted funding reaffirms the NSW Government's commitment to improving health outcomes for those affected by alcohol and drug use in South Western Sydney, ensuring they have access to the support and treatment they need.

Member for Campbelltown and Parliamentary Secretary for Western Sydney Greg Warren said:

“This is critical funding that will ensure that people with complex needs across Southwest Sydney receive the wrap-around support that they need in order to recover within their own community.”

“Providing more access to these essential supports will help provides much needed support and treatment to our community across Western Sydney.”