DRUG policy reform and the need for NSW to address the unique challenges in regional areas, including gaps in service access, was a key focus of the recent NSW Drug Summit Regional Forum.
In attendance was the Network of Alcohol and other Drugs Agencies CEO, Dr Robert Stirling, who said, "this forum is an opportunity to align drug policy with community expectations and reduce stigma against people who use drugs".
Also present was Directions Health CEO Bronwyn Hendry, who advocated for harm reduction policies, including decriminalisation, and better support for co-occurring mental health conditions.
"If we can reduce the shame and stigma experienced by those with problematic drug use, we can intervene earlier and prevent or reduce the harms experienced," she said.
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