Family Drug Support 2024 Annual Report

22 The objectives for the International Day are; • Continuing to push for productive changes in drug policy based on evidence and reducing harm • Reducing stigma and discrimination for families and drug users • Promoting Family Drug Support services for families and friends • Promoting harm reduction strategies for families and friends • Promoting the importance and benefits of supporting families • The important role of FDS volunteers in providing family support across Australia • Fatal and non-fatal overdoses from drugs including pharmaceuticals • Promoting greater support and resources for treatment services ACT – Canberra – 28 February Canberra IFDSD24 was opened with a very powerful and engaging Welcome to Country by Dr. Matilda House and her son Paul Girrawah House, at Parliament House Canberra. FDS Volunteers Manager James Lomas invited six speakers to the stage to show their support for the theme of the event “Supported Families – Stronger Communities”. The speakers included Founder/CEO Tony Trimingham, MP Emma McBride, MP Tanya Plibersek, Rev Bill Crews, Julie Tongs and Jennie Ross-King. Strong messages were received from all the key-note speakers to the importance of advocacy in the sector, the progress we have made as a nation, but also the lengths we still have to go to achieve further changes and support the vulnerable. The audience included representatives from the AOD sector organisations, family members and government departments with ongoing feedback confirming the importance and success of the event. L-R: James Lomas, Anna Daglish, Nerida Barnes and Jennie Ross-King Tony Trimingham. SA – Adelaide – 21 February This year’s event was hosted by the Hon Chris Picton MP, Minister for Health and Wellbeing at Parliament House. It was attended by over 57 community members. Speakers included the Hon. Chris Picton MP, Minister for Health & Wellbeing; Robert Simms MLC, Leader of the Greens; Professor Jacqueline Bowden, Director NCETA Flinders University; Lucy Hood MP, Member for Adelaide; Ricki (family speaker) and Michael White, Director of SANDAS.