Tackling alcohol abuse in Coober Pedy

The Australian Government is investing $367,000 over the next two years to help tackle alcohol abuse in Coober Pedy.

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, said the funding would be used to implement the Coober Pedy Alcohol Management Plan in partnership with the District Council of Coober Pedy and local service providers.

“Alcohol continues to devastate the lives of too many Aboriginal people in South Australia, particularly here in Coober Pedy,” Ms Macklin said.

“It can lead to violence, make it hard to hold down a job and get the kids to school, and can destroy the health of families and communities.

“The Coober Pedy Alcohol Management Plan has been developed with the South Australian Government, local organisations and the community.

“The plan addresses a range of issues identified by the local community including public drinking and antisocial behavior, the transitory population, public safety and family violence and the supply of alcohol.

“Work under the plan will focus on four main areas including stronger leadership and collaboration, supply reduction and management, harm minimisation and demand reduction and management.

“A dedicated worker will be employed at the District Council of Coober Pedy to facilitate the development and implementation of the activities and actions outlined in the draft plan.

“Funding will also help support a regional forum focused on developing alcohol management approaches, and practical projects to tackle alcohol abuse.

“By implementing Alcohol Management Plans we can ensure the focus in communities is on protecting women, children and families, and reducing alcohol-related harm.”