FDS Annual Report 2024/25

21 The objectives for the International Day are; • Advocating for evidence-based changes in drug policy • Reducing stigma and discrimination for families and individuals who use drugs • Promoting Family Drug Support services for families, carers and friends • Promoting harm reduction strategies for families, carers and friends • Highlighting the importance and benefits of supporting families • The critical role of FDS volunteers in providing family support across Australia ACT – Canberra – 25 February The ACT International Family Drug Support Day (IFDSD) took place at the ACT Legislative Assembly. The event featured speakers from government, health, and community sectors who highlighted the need to shift from punitive drug policies to health-based approaches. Emotional insights were shared about the toll of current laws on families, with a strong focus on stigma and the disproportionate incarceration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Tony Trimingham’s message announcing his retirement was played, reaffirming the importance of ongoing advocacy and support for families affected by substance use. Following the event, Mr Shane Rattenbury, Member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and leader of the ACT Greens spoke about International Family Drug Support Day in the Assembly on 5 March to highlight its importance and the work of FDS. Mr Rattenbury spoke of the stigma around drug use and the lack of support families receive due to punitive policies. L - R Shane Rattenbury MLA, Anita Mills - ATODA CEO, James Lomas, Cigdem Watson, Jen Ross-King, Marion McConnell, Andrew Murphy, Maria Travers - ATODS