The upcoming NSW Drug Summit, planned over two days in regional NSW in October, and Sydney on 4th and 5th December, is welcomed by Odyssey House NSW.
The Summit aims to bring together policymakers, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience, to discuss innovative strategies for tackling drug-related issues.
Odyssey House NSW, a leading provider of drug and alcohol rehabilitation services, views this summit as a pivotal opportunity to develop a more effective and compassionate approach to addiction treatment and prevention, addressing stigma and improving outreach to families and friends and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.
The 1999 NSW Drug Summit was a significant turning point in drug and alcohol policy including the establishment of the first medically supervised injecting facility in Kings Cross.
Community Drug Action Teams (CDATs) were another initiative to emerge from the 1999 Summit and now operate across NSW, preventing and reducing health, social and economic harms related to drug and alcohol use. The CDATs are managed by a consortia, that is led by Odyssey House along with three partner members.
The 2024 summit is poised to deliver a new round of ground-breaking, life-saving reforms to support people facing addictions.
Carmel Tebbutt, CEO of Odyssey House NSW, highlights the importance of a holistic approach to reform.
“We need comprehensive responses to the myriad of issues that impact on a person’s AOD use. The Summit provides a unique opportunity to collaborate on evidence-based solutions that prioritise the health and well-being of individuals and communities. We need to reduce stigma, support recovery, reduce harm, and promote long-term wellness.”
Carmel went on to highlight the critical role of accessible treatment services in addressing substance use.
“Ensuring that people have access to high-quality, evidence-based treatment is essential. At Odyssey, we witness the transformative power of comprehensive support every day. Each year we provide well over 6000 treatment episodes, yet we know about 40% of the people who need support are unable to access it. The Drug Summit is an opportunity to discuss how we can make prevention and recovery a reality for many more people.”
Odyssey House NSW has been at the forefront of AOD treatment for almost 50 years, providing residential rehabilitation, outpatient services, and community programs designed to support individuals and families affected by substance use. The organisations holistic approach addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction, promoting sustainable recovery and reintegration into society. It is important the Drug Summit incorporates the voice of front-line service providers such as Odyssey House NSW, many Odyssey staff have their own lived experience and have invaluable insights to share.
As the Drug Summit approaches, Odyssey House NSW looks forward to working with the Government, healthcare providers, and community organisations on innovative, effective solutions.
“The challenges of addiction are too significant to be addressed in isolation. It is collective action and shared commitment that can lead to meaningful change in the lives of those affected by drug use.”
