Intake and comprehensive assessment determines the correct referral pathway for each person to youth, adult, residential and non-residential, state and Commonwealth-funded alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment services.
There are two ways people can access intake and referral to treatment. The first is to contact DirectLine on 1800 888 236 or via the DirectLine website. DirectLine provides 24-hour, 7-day counselling, information and referral.
The second is by contacting a local intake provider. As the primary entry point to the treatment system, catchment-based intake services work closely with DirectLine and other treatment providers. People seeking treatment may also be referred to intake services from a range of health and human service providers (such as a general practitioner).
Intake process and tools
Intake services facilitate entry for new clients to the Victorian alcohol and other drug treatment system.
Catchment-based intake services
Service providers located in all local catchment areas in Victoria provide intake of people for alcohol and other drug treatment.
AOD pathways
AOD Pathways is a state-wide service delivered by Turning Point.
Forensic services
To reduce harm from alcohol and other drug use and crime, the Victorian Government funds dedicated forensic community-based treatment.
Alcohol and other drug services for young people
Youth-specific services help young people up to the age of 25 to address alcohol and other drug use issues. This is achieved through a family-based approach, where appropriate, that is integrated with other services including mental health, education, health, housing, and child protection and family services.
Alcohol and other drug services for Aboriginal people
The Department of Health is committed to providing culturally safe and responsive AOD services for Aboriginal people living in Victoria. Aboriginal Victorians can seek AOD support through a number of publicly funded mainstream services, and Aboriginal-specific services across the state.
Parents of children subject to a family reunification order
The Victorian Government has invested to provide extra services for parents who need alcohol or other drug treatment as part of their children’s family reunification order.
Updated