AADANT News & Media Releases

The Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability released its “Report on the health impacts of alcohol and other drugs in Australia” on 14 September 2026. The inquiry took a health focused approach while also recognising that AOD-related impacts cut across social and economic areas and that opportunities for closer cross-sector collaboration could improve outcomes.

The Committee makes 30 recommendations and provides a comprehensive overview of Australia’s AOD landscape including chapters on alcohol, suggested ways forward in managing health impacts, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and priority populations such as young people. The section on young people outlines prevention, early intervention, intersections with trauma, early life experiences for young people, and school‑based education. The report highlights evidence‑based programs that strengthen protective factors, delay harmful substance use, and equip young people with credible information to make informed choices.

Of interest, there are also a range of workforce recommendations including a specific recommendation regarding a nationally consistent approach to the recognition and employment of peer workers in AOD services.