Terms of reference

Page content: Stage 1 | Stage 2

1. The implementation of a local drug strategy, targeted at municipalities with high levels of illicit drug use. The strategy to be capable of integration with an overall local health plan

2. The implementation of a trial of safe injecting facilities, in consultation with local government and communities and with linkages to relevant services and an appropriate evaluation design

The first stage report is required by the end of March 2000.

Stage 2

1. Options for strengthening licit and illicit drug prevention, treatment and control strategies in ways that would be consistent with the policy and which address shortcoming of existing drug strategies as identified by independent evaluators and key stakeholders

2. The implications of changing patterns of demand and supply and recent developments in the prevention, treatment and control of all non prescribed drugs nationally and internationally

3. Arrangements that would assist community, local government and expert stakeholders to support and be involved in the drug policy initiatives

4. Leadership, accountability and coordination arrangements across Government required to maximise the effectiveness of the policy

5. The most appropriate range and mix of interventions required to implement the Government's policy and achieve its policy goals

In providing advice on these matters the Committee should:

• consult with social policy, drug and legal experts and local government;

• take account of Commonwealth Government policies and planned outlays within Victoria as they may impact upon Government policy;

• use available evaluations and data, review the effectiveness of existing services and arrangements;

• assess the civil, criminal and inter governmental issues relating to proposals which may require legislative change;

• take account of the need to ensure that services are appropriately linked to and integrated with, primary welfare and mental health services.

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