Publications

As Victoria enters the next phase of mental health reform, VAADA is proud to launch our latest report. This paper builds on previous work and aims to ensure that integrated, person-centred care becomes the standard across Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system.

The Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA) is disappointed that the Victorian Government has rejected recommendations relating to the decriminalisation of cannabis following the Inquiry into the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Amendment (Regulation of Personal Adult Use of Cannabis) Bill 2023.

Melbourne City Council has committed $2 million to expand its Community Safety Function, placing more security officers on city streets to respond to behaviours such as public drinking and begging. While intended to enhance safety, this approach risks harming those already facing disadvantage—people experiencing homelessness, substance dependence, and mental health challenges.

This AOD Sector Insights report presents aggregated insights from the VAADABase pilot project, which has compiled data from 15 Victorian Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) agencies over the period of 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

A historic milestone for Victoria. The State-wide Treaty Bill was tabled in Parliament. This is more than legislation, it is a profound shift towards self-determination, recognising Aboriginal expertise, and embedding solutions driven by community knowledge. VAADA is proud to have pledged our support for Treaty. We walk alongside First Peoples in building a better,...

The fatal overdose data released today by the Coroners Court of Victoria is of major concern to the VictorianAlcohol and Drug Association (VAADA).

The Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA) has lodged a submission to the Fair Work Commission in response to its discussion paper on gender-based undervaluation within the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHADS).

VAADA’s analysis of the 2025–26 Victorian State Budget reveals a modest 1.2% increase in AOD funding—well below CPI and not enough to meet rising demand. While we welcome targeted investments in pharmacotherapy, multicultural youth programs, and outreach services in North Richmond, the lack of meaningful growth in core funding places further pressure on a...

Over the next 30 years, Victoria’s Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector will need to contend with a complex and evolving array of public health challenges, including the prioritisation of integrated treatment for those experiencing co-occurring health and wellbeing issues that involve AOD; an ever changing drug market and risks to health arising from...

The tragic overdose fatalities of four individuals in Broadmeadows in 2024 highlight the urgency of a Potent Synthetic Opioid Plan. With a further 601 fatal overdoses occurring in Victoria in the 23-24 financial year, the time to act is now.