FDS 2023 Annual Report

27 The objectives for the International Day are;  Continuing to push for productive changes in drug policy based on evidence and reducing harm  Reducing stigma and discrimination for families and drug users  Promoting Family Drug Support services for families and friends  Promoting harm reduction strategies for families and friends  Promoting the importance and benefits of supporting families  The important role of FDS volunteers in providing family support across Australia  Fatal and non-fatal overdoses from drugs including pharmaceuticals  Promoting greater support and resources for treatment services QLD – Gold Coast – 20 February Gold Coast welcomed its second International Family Drug Support Day event this year on Monday, 20 February 2023, at the Southport Health Precinct Auditorium. There was a great show of support from community members, service providers across sectors and family members, with over 70 guests in attendance. L-R: Alaistair Gibson, Ken Streeter, Olja Savic, Dan Nguyen, Alana Boulton, Toni Eachus, Louise Delaney, Natasha Stapleton and Anna Daglish. SA – Adelaide – 22 February This year’s event on the theme of Support the Family – Improve the Outcome was hosted by the Hon Chris Picton MP, Minister for Health and Wellbeing at Parliament House. Approx. 35+ people attended. Speakers included the Hon. Chris Picton MP, Minister for Health & Wellbeing; Robert Simms MLC, Leader of the Greens; Penny Pratt MP, Shadow Minister for Mental Health & Suicide Prevention; Sally Underdown, State Manager SA/NT Alcohol & Drug Foundation; Debby Kadarusman In-home Withdrawal Coordinator – Clinical and Quality Sonder; Caroline (family speaker) L-R: Robert Simms MLC, Sally Underdown, Chris Picton SA IFDSD 2023 event – Balcony Room MP, Catherine Winter and Debby Kadarusman