The CLP Government is strengthening mental health and Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) services as part of its comprehensive and consistent response to address community safety in Alice Springs.
These initiatives build on a range of measures aimed at addressing alcohol-related harm and promoting community safety across the region.
Minister for Health, Steve Edgington, said: “By integrating mental health and alcohol services, our government is delivering more streamlined and effective care for individuals dealing with harmful drinking habits.”
“This approach complements broader efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm and create a safer Alice Springs this summer,” he said.
Under this integrated model, mental health and AOD services have been aligned to improve coordination of treatment pathways.
A “no wrong door” approach ensures individuals can access the support they need, wherever they seek help.
The CLP Government is also implementing targeted measures to tackle alcohol-related issues, including:
New nuisance public drinking laws: Empowering police to fine, charge, and arrest individuals drinking in prohibited public spaces, as well as issuing seven-day Banned Drinker Orders.Strengthened liquor licensing regulations: Maintaining bottle shop hour limitations and point-of-sale interventions to manage alcohol availability.Increased enforcement presence: Stationing NT Police at bottle shops to deter secondary supply and enforce alcohol restrictions.Liquor licence inspections: Conducted by Licensing NT to ensure compliance and reduce harm.
“This is a whole-of-community effort to tackle alcohol misuse and its ripple effects on safety and wellbeing,” said Mr Edgington.
“These measures directly support our plan to address community safety in Alice Springs, ensuring a comprehensive and consistent response to the challenges facing our region.”
Key health initiatives include:
Expansion of the Consultation Liaison Nurse Team: Enhancing interagency coordination and access to care for residents.”Take a Break” Program: Launching in early 2025, this residential respite care initiative will offer short-term support for individuals managing AOD-related concerns.Culturally safe care: In partnership with Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisations, NT Health is delivering initiatives that ensure culturally safe care, particularly in high-pressure settings like emergency departments.
The community is encouraged to promote responsible drinking, report alcohol-related incidents to NT Police or local authorities, and seek help through the wide range of available support and treatment services.
