The cities of Armadale, Canning and Gosnells have been recognised at the 2019 Local Government Policy Awards for their joint Alcohol Action Plan (AAP).
The AAP is the first of its kind in Western Australia to tackle alcohol- related harm across three metropolitan local government areas.
The plan captures the work that organisations are already implementing. However, it also provides an opportunity for groups to work together and develop local solutions in an effort to reduce the alcohol- related problem and improve health and wellbeing of the community.
The program also provides strategies that target schools, sporting clubs and licensed venues to address underage drinking and promote alcohol-related support services.
These strategies will be implemented by the three cities through their joint Local Drug Action Group over the next three years, in partner- ship with 16 government and non- government organisations.
The City of Canning Mayor Paul Ng said he was proud to have the opportunity to collaborate with other local governments and organisations to combat the statistics of alcohol consumption in the state.
“Especially at a time when statistics show that Western Australians are more likely to drink alcohol in quantities that place them at risk of short and long term harm,” he said.
The City of Gosnells Mayor Glenn Dewhurst said the city is pleased that the AAP has been recognised at a state-wide level.
“The award recognises the collaborative approach to preventing and reducing harm associated with the sale, supply and consumption of alcohol,” he said.
“The city looks forward to continuing to work with the other local governments and organisations to deliver the action plan, achieving positive health and wellbeing outcomes for residents.”
Mr Dewhurst believes the AAP joint plan is working so well be- cause it involves a strong commitment from a range of stakeholders, including all levels of government and non-government organisations.
The Alcohol Action Plan is a starting point focused on three priority areas, which are underage drinking, alcohol-related anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related support services.
According to Mr Dewhurst there is scope to add or re-focus these priority areas in the future to respond to the changing needs of the community.
The City of Armadale Mayor Henry Zelones is pleased with the awards and said the three cities believe that working together will increase the impact on addressing the growing issue of alcohol-related harm in the communities.
