While debate over a drugs policy continues in the Federal and State spheres, Local Government is implementing practical strategies to address the problems of drug use.
In February, Melbourne City Council hosted a Local Government Seminar on Illegal Drugs. This provided information for Councillors and Council staff when dealing with drug issues in their communities.
Speakers included Dr John Fitzgerald, from the Department of Criminology at Melbourne University; Michelle Keenan, from the Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre; and Greg Cooper, from the Metropolitan Ambulance Service.
During the Seminar, Melbourne City Council launched a health information card for illegal drug users. These cards are part of the ‘Don’t Drop Out Program’.
Developed in conjunction with the Department of Human Services, plus drug and health support agencies, the information on the 5,000 cards that have been produced follows current ambulance and Victorian Police protocols.
“These cards are one example of the City of Melbourne’s commitment to provide information to improve the health and welfare of people who use drugs,” said then Lord Mayor Ivan Deveson.
“Illegal drug use is a blight affecting the lives of families, the safety of our communities and the work of industry. This is just one practical example of work completed under the Inaugural Metropolitan Mayors Statement of Drugs and the leadership being demonstrated by Local Government.”
Brisbane City Council has launched a program to curb the problem of unsafe discarding of needles. Seventy disposal bins will be installed in parks, malls and toilets across the City.
Community Policy Committee Chair, Councillor David Hinchliffe, said drug abuse is a problem in all our capital cities and Council is looking at the best ways to combat the problem. “Part of this strategy is how we deal with unsafely discarded sharps,” he said.
“In Fortitude Valley, we are working with private businesses to install sharps bins in and around private premises as well as in public spaces.”
Businesses registering with the City Safe project team before April 30 receive free installation and two months servicing of their bins.
