Help stop alcohol abuse

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton recently announced the program run at Perth Magistrates Court would expand to all outer metropolitan courts.

The early intervention program started to help people attending court who had drug-related problems, and since last July included those with alcohol-related problems.

‘Engaging in this program will mean offenders with alcohol-related problems have the opportunity to receive treatment at a time in their lives when they might be open to making positive behaviour change,’ Mrs Morton said.

‘By expanding this successful program to include alcohol use, and further expanding it to all outer metropolitan courts, I hope more people will be offered this opportunity to break the cycle of offending.’

Attorney General Michael Mischin said the Department of the Attorney General and the Drug and Alcohol Office were working together to offer intervention programs across Perth.

‘It now means that offenders before the magistrates court in the broader Perth area who wish to address their alcohol-related problems may access the program,’ he said.

The program will be available to eligible offenders, who would be referred by magistrates, at all metropolitan courts from March. For details, visit dao.health.wa. gov.au, or for help with alcohol or other drug issues call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 9442 5000.