Western Australian Meth Strategy 2016
Please note that the WA Meth Strategy has now been superceded by the WA Methamphetamine Action Plan.
Read more about the Methamphetamine Action Plan.
The Western Australian Meth Strategy 2016 outlines the then-Liberal National Government’s commitment to preventing and reducing methamphetamine (meth) related harm in the community.
The strategy is a two-pronged approach:
- disrupting the supply chain by strengthening law enforcement measures to reduce production and distribution of meth, and
- reducing demand for the drug through targeted early intervention programs and individual and community support.
In the 2016-17 State Budget, the Government allocated $14.9 million over two years to the Mental Health Commission (Commission) to expand alcohol and other drug (AOD) services. Some initiatives that the Commission are progressing in relation to the Western Australian Meth Strategy 2016 include:
- Expansion of public education campaigns focusing on those who are at risk of use, or are using meth as well as parents, families and friends of those who use meth.
- Expansion of school-based programs that will expand the reach of current school drug education programs, including the provision of targeted information regarding meth use.
- Development of a new Specialist Methamphetamine Clinic at the Commission’s Next Step facility in East Perth. This was launched on 16 October 2016, and provides free withdrawal treatment and counselling services for people using meth.
- Expansion of existing Community Alcohol and Drug Services for meth users through the provision of additional staff across the State, to provide counselling, information and referrals to people experiencing meth-related harm, and their families.
- Expansion of low medical withdrawal beds by eight beds, and residential rehabilitation beds by 52 beds across the State, which are scheduled to open in January 2017.
- Expansion of training and support for frontline workers who deal with meth‑affected people as part of their day-to-day duties.
- Launch of the State Meth Helpline on 12 September 2016 providing 24 hours a day, seven days a week confidential counselling, support and referral to treatment for meth users and their families on 1800 874 878.
- Development of compulsory treatment options for those with severe AOD problems, including meth use.