'House of cards': The uncertain future of addiction help in Australia

In Australia, there are currently half a million individuals without access to essential drug and alcohol addiction services, according to a warning from the Australasian Therapeutic Communities Association (ATCA). The group fears that the future of many services is unstable and could collapse if federal funding is reduced or not renewed.

ATCA chair Gerard Byrne stated that his members, who offer residential therapy, outreach, and day programs, are experiencing longer waiting lists and wait times due to increased demand. He warned that untreated addiction leads people to seek help in hospitals, police stations, courts, prisons, homeless services, and domestic violence services.

ATCA executive officer Michelle Ridley emphasized that the issue is most severe in regional and remote areas, with half a million Australians missing out on needed treatment. The sector faces uncertainty due to increasing demand, workforce challenges, and a lack of clarity regarding future funding arrangements. The federal government extended existing grants until June 2027, but ATCA urges for soon release of three-year grant agreements.

Byrne stressed the need for funding to ensure the financial sustainability of the sector, as funding cuts could create a domino effect, jeopardizing the financial stability of services that rely on federal, state, and territory funding.