The NSW Police have launched a new campaign in Cowra aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of illegal drug use in Aboriginal communities across the state.
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The ‘Not our way’ campaign has been developed by the NSW Police Drug and Alcohol Coordination team in conjunction with Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (ACLO’s), key stakeholders, Aboriginal elders and community members to raise awareness of the dangers of illegal drug use and misuse of prescription drugs.
The campaign addresses the rising issue of methylamphetamine (ice), the illegal use of pharmaceuticals, and the associated health and safety risks to individuals, families and the wider community.
NSW Police Corporate Sponsor for Aboriginal Issues Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie said, “The campaign aims to highlight and address the challenges facing local Aboriginal Communities”.
“Research shows that Aboriginal communities are at greater risk of developing harmful long-term drug use than the general population, and both ‘ice’ and pharmaceuticals have shown the biggest spike more recently,” Assistant Commissioner McKechnie said.
“The use and distribution of illegal drugs is not only against the law, but it is harmful to health and can lead to numerous consequences including the breakdown of families and local communities.”
The “Not Our Way’ campaign seeks to educate people on the dangers of illegal drug use by discussing their short and long term effects whilst illustrating warning signs for friends and families of those possibly affected.
The launch of the campaign coincides with the Canobolas LAC Police and Aboriginal Consultative Committee (PACC) meetings in Cowra on March 21.
PACC meetings are open to all members of the Aboriginal Community and are held to discuss Aboriginal issues with crime and crime prevention. Experts from local drug and alcohol, and mental health services will be joining police and community at the PACC’s where information on illegal drug use, its effects and local support available will be provided. Members of the community can contact ADIS at any time for confidential information, advice and referral services.