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National addiction support services increase
[by Jaye Gilroy]
Dr Liz Dale. Image: supplied
SMART Recovery, Australia’s national addiction and mutual support recovery service, has been awarded a historic $500,000 government grant to help more Australians manage addictive behaviours in 2023.
The grant is the most significant government contribution the independent not-for-profit has received in its history.
The funds will go to establishing a dedicated First Nations addiction recovery program,
developed with research by esteemed Indigenous Australian Psychologist Dr Liz Dale (pictured).
It will also fund a 63 per cent increase in trained facilitators, which will help an additional 1,200 Australians each week manage addictions through online and in-person meetings that centre on individual empowerment and flexible, solutions-focused, strengths-based care.
SMART Recovery CEO April Long said “SMART Recovery Australia welcomes the Federal Government's investment. As we enter the new year, the grant will support the formation of our Aboriginal Action Group to deliver our First Nations Program, which is developed from research by Worimi Woman and Doctor of Psychology, Dr Liz Dale.
"It will also fund 150 additional facilitators to help more people with addictive behaviours receive flexible, evidenced-based treatment early through our celebrated 4-point program.”
Minister for Health and Aged Care, The Hon. Mark Butler MP said "The Australian Government is committed to supporting individuals in their recovery journeys
and is proud to partner with organisations like SMART Recovery Australia.
"This grant, through the Drug and alcohol program, will allow for more Australians and First Nations people in particular, to access flexible, evidence-based treatment and support, helping them to build fulfilling lives in recovery."
SMART Recovery empowers people to help themselves manage addictive behaviours to
improve the health and social well-being of the community.
Their online and in-person meetings support thousands of Australians every week. For more information, visit https://smartrecoveryaustralia.com.au/.
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