Young people readily receive treatment for solvent abuse in the Midland area

12/11/98

The Minister Responsible for WA Drug Abuse Strategy, Rhonda Parker, said young people could readily receive treatment for solvent abuse in the Midland area.

"About 45 young people are already receiving help in the area through cooperation between agencies specialising in the problem," Mrs Parker said.

"The North East Metropolitan Community Drug Service Team works with the Midland Aboriginal Advisory Group and the North East Regional Youth Council, which operates out of Midland, providing specialised treatment, activities and personal development programs for solvent abusers."

The Minister said the North East Regional Youth Council was run as a pilot last year but now received Commonwealth funding of $55,000 a year.

"In addition, 49 Local Drug Action Groups have been established around the State, including Midland and Belmont, and are undertaking a number of prevention projects."

"These include working with retailers to restrict the sale of solvents which is an important strategy in badly affected communities.

"New initiatives to tackle the problem include Intoxicated Persons legislation and there are plans for a sobering-up centre in Midland.

"Also, the Office of Aboriginal Health will bring substance abuse intervention programs developed in the Central Desert region to Midland early next year.

"Finally, a working party, convened by the Office of Aboriginal Health with the WA Drug Abuse Strategy Office, and involving all relevant Government agencies and community organisations, will look at research in the area and further legislative options."

"Substance abuse is a difficult problem and can only be dealt with by a multifaceted approach involving Government supporting the community to take responsibility for its young people."

Media contact: Owen Cole, 9481 7810