The Andrews Labor Government is partnering with Thorne Harbour Health to help address the harm caused by ice addiction.
Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley today announced a $10,000 grant, which will go towards a three-day Alcohol and Other Drug-Free music and arts festival and launch the “I’m Not Buying It” campaign being run in conjunction with the Bendigo Queer Film Festival.
The Labor Government’s Community Ice Action Grants go towards local initiatives such as workshops, forums, campaigns, training and engagement.
They bring together community members, local service providers and businesses, all with the common goal of preventing and reducing the harm caused by ice in our communities.
The grants are part of the Labor Government’s Ice Action Plan, which is investing more than $100 million to stop ice ruining people’s lives.
In four years, 52 community ice action grants have been awarded, totalling more than $500,000.
The Labor Government’s Ice Action Plan and Drug Rehabilitation Plan are more than doubling the number of residential rehabilitation beds in Victoria, from 208 beds in 2014/15 to 478 beds when the new facilities are fully operational.
Thorne Harbour Health supports LGBTI communities to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect, providing a range of services such as prevention education, treatment and care of people living with HIV and counselling services.
Quote attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley
“We know community support is the key to beating ice addiction. This grant will help Thorne Harbour Health play an important role in addressing the harm caused by ice.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“Locals are the key to success – they know what will work for their area. This funding will help them work closely with those in the community who need our help to beat their addiction.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“Too many Bendigo families are touched by drug addiction and it has to end. Ice is a terrible toll on society and we’re doing everything we can to stamp it out.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020