FDS - Mission Statement

“To assist families throughout Australia to deal with alcohol and other drugs issues in a way that strengthens relationships and achieves positive outcomes”.

Our People

James Lomas

James joined FDS in October 2015. As our Volunteer Coordinator, his role encompasses working with the Volunteer team, undertaking Interviews with potential volunteers, assisting with the delivery of the volunteer training courses, overseeing the 24/7 telephone roster including debriefing and supporting volunteers and any other administrative requirements.

Prior to joining FDS, James had worked in a number of customer service, administration and learning and development roles, primarily in the Social Service sector. James is passionate about social justice and equality. James is currently completing a Cert IV Coordination of Volunteer programs.

Outside of work James enjoys most sports, collecting records, playing guitar and drums, Scrabble, gardening and DIY projects.

James Lomas
Volunteer Manager

Belinda Arnold

Belinda has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Science and a Post Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Management.

Belinda has a long work history working with children and families in the public and private sector and this has endowed her with the knowledge and skills to work successfully with families, empowering them to cope and manage during times of adversity.

In her experience as a case manager Belinda has had the opportunity to work with children and families from many different backgrounds and understands the need to listen, respect and acknowledge the power and wisdom encompassed in families. She is also aware of the barriers families experience when seeking support and works to advocate and empower families to build relationships, connect with their communities and continue to care for themselves and the people they love.

As a manager in early intervention services, Belinda has worked alongside families impacted by drug and alcohol use and understands that empathy and building relationships are fundamental to working with people to remain engaged and to strengthen families.

Belinda is excited to be part of Family Drug Support and looks forward to connecting with carers and families in the Central Queensland Region.

Belinda Arnold
Family Support Worker, Rockhampton, Central Queensland

Chloe Span

Chloe is the Victorian Project Officer for Family Drug Support Australia and is responsible for running support groups, community workshops and the FDS flagship program, ‘Stepping Stones to Success’ for families affected by problematic alcohol and drug use.

Chloe has a background in case management for people receiving unemployment benefits, is a Board Member of Students for Sensible Drug Policy Australia and is in her qualifying degree to become a social worker. She is also a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and the Australia Community Workers Association (ACWA).

Chloe Span

Clinical Services Manager, Victoria

Jascinta Black

Jascinta has a Diploma in counselling and is currently undertaking a BA in Counselling. In addition, she has also completed a number of courses in the mental health sector.

Jascinta has vast experience working in helping professions and throughout these roles, Jascinta has worked with many families who have been impacted by drug and alcohol use. Specialising in trauma informed and person-centred practice, Jascinta has an acute awareness of the uniqueness of each individuals experience and recognises that every individual is the expert of their own life. Jascinta aims to meet each person with empathy, unconditional positive regard and curiosity.

Jascinta’s work experience, incorporated with her counselling studies has demonstrated her ability to work with families from varied cultural and diverse backgrounds, and treat individuals with inclusivity, dignity, and respect.

Jascinta is elated to be a part of the FDS team and is looking forward to connecting with families in the Brisbane Bayside, Logan and Gold Coast regions.

Jascinta Black

Family Support Worker, Brisbane Queensland

Katelyn Durbin

Prior to joining Family Drug Support, Katelyn worked in the AOD field in a residential and day program.

Katelyn believes the FDS model is instrumental in providing the support and knowledge families deserve, in a safe and supportive environment.

In her spare time Katelyn enjoys reading and spending time with family and close friends.

Katelyn Durbin
Family Support Worker, Australian Capital Territory

Family Drug Support Australia

Supporting families and friends of people who use substances as well as bereaved families in Australia.

SUPPORT LINE (24 Hours - 7 Days)
Phone: 1300 368 186

Contact FDS

FDS - Mission Statement

Our People