FDS Annual Report 2024/25

22 SA – Adelaide – 19 February The 2025 International Family Drug Support Day in South Australia was held at Parliament House Adelaide, hosted by Minister Chris Picton MP and attended by 46 participants, including families, AOD sector workers, and politicians. Speakers highlighted the importance of family support in addressing substance use, with personal stories illustrating the emotional and financial toll of addiction. Discussions emphasised stigma, challenges faced in CALD and rural communities, and the need for integrated, bipartisan responses across health, homelessness, and aged care sectors. The event concluded with networking and promotion of the Time for Change report, reinforcing FDS’s vital role in advocacy and support. QLD – Brisbane – 23 February The 2025 International Family Drug Support Day (IFDSD) in Queensland was held at Parliament House with 120 attendees. Eleven speakers, including MPs, health professionals, and family advocates, called for bipartisan support, humane drug reform, and better outcomes for families affected by substance use. The event honored Tony Trimingham’s retirement and legacy as FDS Founder, with a video message. Attendees included six politicians, sector leaders, and over 120 families and carers. SA Family Support Worker Catherine Winter and Julio Alejio CAASSA Welcome to Country by Song woman Maroochy Sophie Marsh, Anna Daglish, Michael Berkman MP, Hon Leeanne Enoch, Hon Mark Bailey, Carolyn Johnson, Dr Wendell Rosevear, Commissioner Ivan Frkovic,