The NSW Ministry of Health has secured funding to continue the
Community Drug Action Teams (CDAT) program in NSW, under new management.
Over the next three years, from 2021 to 2023, a consortium of specialist alcohol and other drug organisations led by Odyssey House NSW will manage the program, supporting CDATs to deliver prevention activities and help reduce drug and alcohol related harm in their local communities. Along with
Odyssey House NSW the consortium includes
The Buttery,
Karralika Programs Inc. and
Bila Muuji Aboriginal Corporation Health Services Inc.
About CDATs
CDATs aim to make their local community safer, healthier and stronger by reducing the harms associated with the use of alcohol and other drugs.
Since 1999 CDAT volunteer groups made up of community members, staff from Local Health Districts and representatives from other government and non-government agencies, have been organising activities and developing resources aimed at strengthening their communities.
In 2021 there are more than 70 CDATs across NSW.
New consortium supporting CDATs
The new consortium of not-for-profit organisations led by Odyssey House NSW, are experts in treating and supporting individuals, families and communities dealing with alcohol and other drug problems and mental health issues. For the next three years the consortium will work with NSW Health, Local Health Districts, Primary Health Networks, police and justice, researchers, education and consumer rights, to help CDATs reach their goals.
"Odyssey House and our partners will bring together our collective local expertise, knowledge and connections to meet CDAT's objectives and build strong partnerships, identify alcohol and other drug-related issues, develop tailored solutions, and deliver local initiatives." – Julie Babineau, Odyssey House NSW CEO
Prior to this new contract, the CDAT program was managed by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF). The ADF provided prevention expertise to CDATs from 2013 to 2020, working with communities to strengthen the evidence-based focus of the state-wide CDAT Program.
Following an extensive and rigorous open tender process, the NSW Ministry of Health chose the consortium as its new service provider. It is expected the consortium will offer new opportunities for CDATs, including new partnerships and the possibility of expanding the state-wide program.
For further details visit the
CDAT page.
For free and confidential advice 24/7 call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on
1800 250 015. Counsellors are available to provide information, referrals, crisis counselling and support. Or start a
Web Chat with an ADIS counsellor online Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm. ADIS can also provide up-to-date information about service availability in your area during the COVID-19 pandemic.
