YEARS of campaigning by Member for Mildura Ali Cupper and local stakeholders for the establishment of a residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility in the state’s North West has finally paid off, after $36 million in funding was secured in today’s 2022 Victorian State Budget.
“This is an extraordinarily important step in improving health outcomes in the North West,” Ms Cupper said.
“Countless families with a loved one who is dependent on drugs or alcohol will tell you how much this means.
“To finally see this project funded is a watershed moment and means we’re one step closer to saving people’s lives.
“We are so grateful to the Victorian Government for listening and delivering.”
The facility will allow local people to get rehabilitated closer to their support networks, rather than forcing them to travel at least four hours to the closest rehab facility in Bendigo.
“The overdose situation in Mildura is incredibly urgent, and the tyranny of distance will soon no longer be a factor for people being provided the services they need,” Ms Cupper said.
“This project will improve community safety and wellbeing, by tackling drug and alcohol abuse figures, and associated factors like family violence rates, mental health presentations and the prevalence of suicide.
“I’m looking forward to seeing a facility that provides a culturally appropriate healing atmosphere that can treat people where they’re most at ease; near home.”
Ms Cupper paid tribute to the local organisations that have lobbied for a local Drug and Alcohol Service.
“It has been my pleasure to work with local community representatives, Sunraysia Community Health Services and Mallee District Aboriginal Services to advocate for this investment,” she said.
“I look forward to partnering with them and other community organisations and stakeholders on this project as it becomes a reality.
“It is yet another example of how being independent has put Mildura on the map.
“It’s hard work, which results in investments that we simply would not have seen if we were still languishing as a safe Nationals seat.”
Media enquiries: Wade Stephens 0423 905 581