Call for new Local Drug Action Teams in Maranoa

February 19, 2021

Community organisations in Maranoa are being invited to form a partnership to tackle drugs and alcohol, with funding from the Federal Coalition Government.

Maranoa MP David Littleproud said applications are now open for registration of new Local Drug Action Teams (LDATs) to prevent and minimise harm from ice, alcohol and other drugs.

“Alcohol and other drugs, including ice or crystal methamphetamine, are issues for communities, not just for individuals,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Community action is effective because many of the factors influencing drug-related harm can only be targeted at the community level, like social connections, education and a sense of belonging.”

“Tackling ice has always been a strong commitment for me as addiction destroys families and our communities – that’s why this locally-focused action team is so important in helping communities to stamp out this scourge.

“Through this program, I’ve secured 8 Local Drug Action Teams across Maranoa who are working hard within their communities to deliver drug and alcohol prevention programs tailored to the community’s needs.

“Maranoa LDATs have also delivered counsellors and clinical youth workers to Maranoa communities to help tackle drug use and addiction.”

This recruitment round aims to approve 40 new LDATs, which can apply for $10,000 in initial funding to support prevention and health promotion activities, with further funding available.

There are currently 238 local teams nationwide, who in partnership with the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, are developing Community Action Plans to target their local needs.

The LDAT program has received more than $29 million since it began in 2016 and our Government has already committed more than $800 million over four years to reduce the impact of drug and alcohol misuse on individuals, families and communities.

Applications from new LDATs are now open on the LDAT Community Hub: https://community.adf.org.au  and close on Friday 5 March.