In a major crackdown on the growing epidemic of vaping among young Australians, the Australian government has announced a ban on recreational vaping. The move comes as health experts raise concerns about the lack of regulation in the industry and the rise of a thriving black market. The ban aims to address the growing number of young people, including non-smokers, who have become addicted to nicotine through vaping. While some argue for a more relaxed approach, the government’s decision demonstrates its commitment to protecting public health and preventing history from repeating itself.

One of the primary reasons behind the ban is the high number of young Australians who have taken up vaping. Research indicates that approximately one in six Australians aged 14-17 has vaped, while one in four individuals aged 18-24 has engaged in vaping. The availability of vaping products alongside everyday items like lollies and chocolate bars has made them appealing and easily accessible to young people. By restricting the sale of vapes to pharmacies and implementing minimum quality standards, the government hopes to curb the targeting of children and adolescents.

While vapes are commonly perceived as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, health experts emphasize that they are not risk-free. Vaping liquids often contain chemicals, and the long-term implications of their usage are still unclear. The Australian government’s decision to tighten regulations and introduce pharmaceutical-like packaging is aimed at ensuring that vapes meet safety standards. Furthermore, restrictions on flavors, nicotine concentrations, and other ingredients will be introduced to discourage their appeal to young users.

Critics of the ban argue that it may lead to a rise in the illegal market for vaping products. However, the government is also implementing strong penalties for possession of non-prescription e-cigarettes in an effort to tackle this issue comprehensively. By regulating the industry and making it easier for individuals to obtain prescriptions for legitimate therapeutic use, the government aims to provide an avenue for responsible vaping while maintaining public safety.

Australia’s decision to ban recreational vaping and strengthen regulations is a significant step towards protecting the health and well-being of young Australians. By addressing the alarming rise of nicotine addiction among non-smokers and curbing the availability of vaping products to minors, the government is taking proactive measures to prevent the creation of a new generation of nicotine addicts. While critics express concerns about potential consequences, it is essential to prioritise public health and learn from past experiences. By striking a balance between responsible use and safeguarding the youth, Australia can effectively combat the vaping epidemic and ensure a healthier future for all.

This week the ABC published an article, “Cocaine Nation: The Volatile Lives Behind Australia’s Booming Cocaine Trade”, that sheds a stark light on Australia’s drug problem. The revelations within are deeply concerning, highlighting the scale and impact of cocaine use in Australia. As an organisation dedicated to supporting young people affected by drug and alcohol addiction, Sir David Martin Foundation recognises the impact of these revelations.

The article uncovers shocking statistics that paint a troubling picture of Australia’s cocaine consumption. With Australians ranking as the highest per capita users of cocaine worldwide, it is evident that we are facing an unprecedented crisis. The data from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, indicating that Australians spend over $10 billion annually on illegal drugs, including cocaine, is alarming.

What is particularly disheartening is the realisation that cocaine abuse permeates all levels of society. The article reveals that the drug has infiltrated the lives of professionals, celebrities, and even those entrusted with upholding the law. The ease with which cocaine flows from high-level operators to street dealers demonstrates the depth and complexity of the issue.

Australians are the highest per capita users of cocaine in the world – 4.2 per cent of Australians aged 14 and over used cocaine in 2019.

Behind the staggering statistics lies a human cost that cannot be ignored. The personal accounts shared in the article paint a harrowing picture of addiction’s destructive force. Lives shattered, relationships broken, and communities affected—these are the real consequences of Australia’s cocaine epidemic. The trauma and violence experienced by those involved in the drug trade further emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.

Sir David Martin Foundation has raised over $70M since 1990 to enable evidence-based, best-practice models of treatment for youth drug and alcohol addiction that provide an age specific and holistic approach to recovery.

The Foundation stands firm in our commitment to supporting those impacted by addiction, raising awareness of youth drug and alcohol addiction as a health and social condition. We recognise the importance of increased education and awareness around this issue in order to see real change for our young people.

Every $1 invested in alcohol and drug treatment results in a $7 benefit to the Australian community by improving health outcomes, reducing criminal behaviour and increasing psychological wellbeing and participation in the community. The improvements directly translate into savings achieved through a reduction of health care costs, less demand on the criminal justice system and gains in productivity.

Additionally, by raising awareness about the devastating consequences of drug misuse, especially among young people, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions and steer clear of the destructive path of addiction. Investing in holistic treatment programs and is essential to curbing the demand for cocaine in our communities.

The World Health Organisation ranks substance addiction as the world’s most stigmatised health conditions. Around 1/3 of Australians with problematic alcohol & drug use never seek help, with 37.5% of this group under the age of 30.

Stigma, judgement and misinformation are major roadblocks to young people and their families seeking help for drug and alcohol addiction. Together, by starting important conversations and breaking down some of the misconceptions about addiction we can help remove these barriers and empower young people to seek help.

The revelations presented in the “Cocaine Nation” article demand our attention. Together, we can work towards a future where the lives of individuals and communities affected by cocaine and other substances can heal and flourish.

___________________________________________________________

If you or anyone you know needs help:

Lifeline 13 11 14

Health Direct on 1800 022 222

National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline 1800 250 015

Last year, we announced the expansion of our Youth Advisory Group alongside, Chair of the Group, Lucy Stronach.

Lucy’s extensive advocacy and human rights endeavours meet no bounds, from being the 2020/21 Australian Youth Representative to the United Nations, as well as a University Lecturer and Youth Programs Officer from Perth, WA (Whadjuk Noongar land). In February 2023, she was fortunate enough to travel to Geneva to pursue further work with the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and her experience was nothing short of captivating.

CEDAW is a body of 23 independent experts that work to monitor the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Adopted by the UN in 1979, this Convention seeks to oppose all forms of discrimination, including violence, poverty, and a lack of access to leadership and other human rights.

In Lucy’s two years of work with the CEDAW, she has supported Natasha Stott Despoja AO through triannual engagements with the States parties (or countries) who have ratified the Convention. Working through a series of General Recommendations (GR), 2022 was a breakthrough year for Lucy:

“Excitingly, in 2022, our newest GR (40), examines women’s leadership, and I’m sure it will be an invaluable tool for countries to improve the participation of women and girls in decision-making bodies.”

The significance of youth voices plays a key role in everything Lucy does, whether for the UN Committee or in their course of her duties as Chair of the Foundation’s Youth Advisory Group:

Lucy shared, “In my years working with this Committee, I have noted the absence of youth voices in key policy making bodies. The role that young people play in continuing advocacy efforts & pushing for change on local and global levels cannot be understated.”

Despite the challenging nature of the Committees work, Lucy is proud to be working amongst the brilliant individuals that are improving spaces for women and girls around the world. She says their next challenge will be in finding ways of including youth voices in this space in a substantive and meaningful way, as “without our youth involved, we will fail to progress.”

We are delighted to have Lucy Chair our Youth Advisory Group. She is an incredible young leader who continues to contribute her deep insight and experience towards Sir David Martin Foundation’s mission to give safety, hope and opportunity to all vulnerable young Australians.

On Thursday 2nd March 2023, Foundation representatives attended the Sydney WorldPride Human Rights Conference plenary session. We heard inspiring keynotes, informative and thought-provoking panel discussions, and experienced emotional poetry and musical performances.

The conference was the largest convergence of human rights defenders, community members, government and political representatives, philanthropists and corporate leaders committed to LGBTQI+ rights ever held in the southern hemisphere.

People who identify as LGBTQI+ often face social stigma, discrimination, and other challenges not encountered by people who identify as heterosexual or cisgender. They also face a greater risk of harassment and violence. As a result of these and other stressors, sexual minorities are at increased risk for various behavioural health issues, including drug and alcohol addiction.

Keynote Speaker Helena Dalli, Commissioner for Equality, European Union (EU) stated that, “67 UN countries still criminalise homosexuality, while 14 countries criminalise trans and non-binary persons’ expression of their gender identity.”

The impacts of the discrimination, stigma and social challenges faced by this community are complex and compounding. For example, statistics show that people who identify as LGBTQI+ are more than twice as likely as their heterosexual counterparts to use illicit drugs and almost twice as likely to suffer from a substance abuse disorder.

Ro Allen, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner, spoke in the session on the importance creating better systems for queer young people. They said, “When you can provide a safe place for dialogue you can see change, real change.” When we talk about safe spaces, this can take many forms. Safe spaces to heal, to reflect, to share our struggles without judgement, without reprimand. This is something that all vulnerable young people should have the right to access.

Another important theme of the day was the simple concept of being listened to. We cannot underestimate the importance of creating space for the voices of the vulnerable and marginalised in our society, and while we strive to be the voice where it’s needed, we must also strive to amplify those voices that are already there.

“People say we are the voice for the voiceless. No. We all have voices, it’s just that our voices have been marginalised.” – Crystal Hendricks, Intersex Rights Officer, Iranti.

More inclusive spaces and open two-way conversations can only help our young people. Help them feel heard, understood and cared for. As we start making inroads to greater understanding of the challenges facing our LGBTQI+ youth, we must also be aware of the outcomes of the marginalisation they have faced in their lives, and the follow-on repercussions such as increased risk factors for alcohol and drug misuse.

To echo the closing remarks by the host of day two of the Human rights Conference Fran Kelly, ABC journalist and presenter, it’s important to remember that no matter what, “we are all lovable, and love will always win.” – Fran Kelly.

 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Lesbian, Gay, & Bisexual (LGB) Adults (Annual Report). samhsa.gov. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2020-nsduh-lesbian-gay-bisexual-lgb-adults Published July 22, 2022. Accessed February 7, 2023.

Medley, G., Lipari, R.N., Bose, J., Cribb, D.S., Kroutil, L.A., &McHenry, G.. (2016). Sexual Orientation and Estimates of Adult Substance Use and Mental Health: Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

 

Position Statement

Sir David Martin Foundation acknowledges the traditional owners of Country throughout Australia and we pay our respects to elders, past, present and emerging.

We accept the invitation issued in the Uluru Statement from the Heart to walk with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for a better future and we support a First Nations Voice to Parliament with constitutional recognition.

Young people are the future of Australia and our First Nations youth will carry on the culture and connection to land that has existed for sixty millennia.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart clearly explains why this is so important for young people:

Walawaani is a Dhurga word meaning “safe journey”. It’s also the name of Mission Australia’s new youth residential rehabilitation facility in Batemans Bay on the South Coast of NSW.

On Friday February 24, 2023, Foundation staff, donors, and the Martin family attended Mission Australia’s official opening of Walawaani. Based on the Triple Care Farm model, the program aims to help young people, aged 16 to 24, manage their recovery from alcohol and drug addiction.

The new facility is based on 17 acres of bushland and is a space where youth in crisis can be nurtured through rehabilitation and given the best chance to break the cycle of addiction. Over the course of 12 weeks, young people receive medical care and psychosocial skills, counselling and case management as well as living skills and vocation and educational training.

The opening ceremony featured a powerful Welcome to Country from Roderick Slockee of Walbunja and Minjungbal heritage, a local man who shared the story of his people, and of the surrounding Country and Land that we were gathered on to celebrate. He also shared how important it is having services like this available to young people in the Batemans Bay region, so that they can receive help closer to home.

Walaawani was then officially opened by the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and Her Excellency Mrs Hurley. The event was hosted by Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister, Chairman Ian Hammond and Executive of Community Services Ben Carblis. As part of the proceedings an official plaque was unveiled to commemorate the opening of the new facility.

During the ceremony, Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister said,

“When a young person experiencing illicit drug or alcohol abuse is motivated to seek change, appropriate rehabilitation facilities like Walawaani must be available. There is a growing demand for such services, and we hope these service models can be expanded to other locations, including in rural, remote, and regional areas. This wonderful new facility will provide the young people with the support they need, when and where they need it.”

Walawaani welcomed its first residents in early February and there were three young people onsite, starting their rehabilitation journey at the time of the opening. With a 10-bed capacity, more young people will be making their way to the new facility in the coming days.

Sir David Martin Foundation supports the Triple Care Farm Walawaani campus by funding a full-time qualified Aftercare worker, as part of our national Youth Network. This means that each person who completes the program has a dedicated youth worker supporting their reconnection with family or community networks, healthcare, education, and importantly, employment opportunities, as they transition back into the community.

This crucial period of support underpins a brighter future for each young person, free from the pitfalls of addiction and offering safety, hope and opportunity.

Myth: Marijuana is a relatively harmless drug.

Fact: Marijuana often acts as a ‘gateway drug’ to more potent drugs and can actually be highly addictive. In 2019, one-quarter (25%) of people aged 18-24 had used cannabis in the past 12 months, compared with 11.6% of people aged 14 and over (AIHW, 2020).

Myth: Once you are addicted to drugs and alcohol, it is a life sentence.

Fact: Drug and alcohol addiction does not have to last a lifetime. With the right support, anyone can end harmful drug and alcohol use. 

Myth: Young people believe alcohol and drugs increase confidence.

Fact: Alcohol in small quantities can make people feel more relaxed and socialise easier. However, alcohol and drugs can be considered, a ‘downer’ or depressant. It can cause people to withdraw from others, or feel aggressive. Alcohol and drug use reduces one’s inhibitions and impairs judgement. This places users in potentially harmful situations, which can lead to injury, ruined relationships and unsafe sexual practices.

Myth: Teenagers are too young to get addicted.

Fact: Dependence or addiction can occur at any age. Even unborn children can become dependent as a result of their mother’s drug use. Australia research shows that problematic substance use often begin during adolescence, and the earlier a young person starts to use drugs and alcohol, the more likely they will experience various negative outcomes. These include poor school performance and early drop out, an increased risk of other mental health problems, dependency, and an increased likelihood of juvenile offending. This highlights the need for effective prevention in adolescence to protect young people from these associated harms. (Positive Choices, 2021)

Myth: Drugs are a bigger problem than alcohol.

Truth: All drugs cause harm but alcohol causes more deaths than all other illegal drugs combined (Positive Choices, 2021). In 2019, there were 1,317 alcohol-induced deaths registered in Australia (AIHW, 2021).

 Myth: Alcohol is not a drug.

Truth: Alcohol is often not thought of as a drug because it is legal. Alcohol is a drug that slows down the central nervous system and is second only to tobacco as a cause of drug related deaths and hospitalisations in Australia. Alcohol belongs to a class of drugs called depressants.

Myth: Prescription pills are safe because they came from a doctor.

Fact: Prescription medication is considered safe if it is used in exactly the way it was prescribed by your Health Professional. In Australia in 2018, a majority of drug-induced deaths (excluding alcohol and tobacco) involved opioids, and three-fifths (60%) of those deaths were attributed to prescription drugs only (NDSHS, 2019)

Myth: You can use drugs occasionally and not get addicted.

Truth: Even occasional drug use can lead to dangerous addiction. As Alan Leshner, the Director of the US based National Institute on Drug Abuse, notes, “every drug user starts out as an occasional user, and that initial use is a voluntary and controllable decision. But, as time passes and drug use continues, a person goes from being a voluntary to a compulsive drug user.” Furthermore, “a vast body of hard evidence shows that it is virtually inevitable that prolonged drug use will lead to addiction.” (International Survey Associates, 2017)

Myth: You have to use drugs or alcohol for a long time before they can hurt you.

Fact: While most people are aware of the long-term effects of consuming drugs or alcohol, in fact a substance can have an impact on you from the moment it is taken. Drugs impact the brain in dramatic and dangerous ways, and they can cause it to send the wrong signals to the body. These signals can have dramatic effects on the body and cause a person to stop breathing, have a heart attack or go into a coma. This can happen the first time the drug is used.

Youth and alcohol in Australia

Alcohol is the most common drug in Australia, and it is the most commonly used drug among young people.

Around 1 in 5 (16.8%) of young Australians aged 14 years or older drink at a level that puts them at risk of alcohol-related harm over their lifetime (NDSHS, 2019)

Young adults (18-24) are the most likely age group to drink 11 or more drinks on one occasion (30%) (ibid.)

Alcohol contributes to all the leading causes of death among young people (ADF, 2021) including:

More than 1 in 10 deaths of young Australians aged 14-17 are related to alcohol consumption (NDARC, 2016).

Youth and drugs in Australia

The 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS), found an estimated 9.0 million (43%) of people aged 14 and over in Australia has illicitly used a drug at some point in their lifetime.

The most commonly used drugs among young people are (NDSHS, 2019)

  1. Cannabis (11.6%)
  2. Cocaine (4.2%)
  3. Ecstasy (3.0%)

In recent years there have been changes in use of a number of illicit drugs (between 2016 and 2019). Methamphetamines are no longer in the top five of drugs most likely to be used by young Australians in the last 12 months. In fact use has been declining since its peak at 3.4% in 2001 and has since stabilised in 2019. 

Most people first try illicit drugs out of curiosity (69%) and of those who continue using illicit drugs, they do so because they enjoy it (71%) (NDSHS, 2019).

Among people aged 14–29, the mean age of initiation of illicit drug use has risen from 16.7 years in 2016 to 17.3 years in 2019 (NDSHS, 2019).

Additionally, 98% of secondary students reported they had never used methamphetamines (Australian Secondary Student’s Alcohol and Drug Report, 2017).

Where you can find help

If you need emergency medical help please call 000.

If you or someone you know need help with their drug or alcohol use please reach out to one of the many services available near you and ask for help, or even someone just to listen.

We’ve put together a list of services where you can seek help at: https://martinyouth.org.au/find-help/

Mental Health Month in October is a great opportunity to raise awareness of mental health issues, particularly for young people.

A report by Suicide Prevention Australia has come at a time where momentum in Australia is high for elevating suicide prevention as a priority for both government and the community.

Sadly, 1 in 2 young people are impacted by suicide by the time they turn 25. Over 10 million Australian adults are estimated to know someone who has died by suicide. This means that suicide personally touches half of the Australian population.

The report clearly states that young people who struggle with alcohol and drug problems are at greater risk of suicide than the general population. In 2017, 41.6% of deaths by suicide in the 25-44-year age group involved people with drug and alcohol use disorders and acute intoxication.

The more commonly recognised suicide risk continues to be mental illness; however, this report does address other life stressors that influence suicidal behaviour, emphasising that suicide prevention is complex.

Suicide is a major issue in Australia, affecting families, friends and the broader community. The report shows the immediate need for further investigation for better support and early intervention to help vulnerable people at risk of suicide, before they reach crisis point.

Learn more about how Sir David Martin Foundation helps save young lives – moving them from a high risk of suicide to seeing opportunities and building a brighter future. 

Apply for Triple Care Farm‘s youth drug and alcohol programs.

As the Foundation’s newest Ambassador, Commando Steve, has committed to abseiling 135 metres down a Sydney Skycraper for Sir David Martin Foundation’s annual fundraising event, Abseil for Youth.

As one of Australia’s most recognised and respected fitness experts, he has helped many people to transform their lives through health and fitness. Willis has a background in the Australian Special Forces and is also known for his role on Australia’s Biggest Loser and Australian Survivor.

Abseil for Youth raises vital funds for young people in crisis.

As the major philanthropic partner of Mission Australia, Sir David Martin Foundation has raised over $65M since 1990. This partnership has enabled a best practice model of treatment for young people with drug and alcohol addiction.

Young  people’s lives are saved – moving from a high  risk of suicide to seeing opportunities and building a  brighter  future.

This year, Abseil for Youth celebrates its 10th year, having raised over $2.6 million for young people with drug and alcohol addiction and mental health issues.

Willis struggled for years with his mental health and is using his influence and expertise to help people get well. Although Abseil for Youth is a big challenge, the fear of stepping over the edge of a 135m building is likened to the bravery young people in crisis show when they ask for help.

Show your support and make a donation to Sir David Martin Foundation to help young Australians in crisis today.

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, or DBT for short, is commonly used to treat complex mental health issues like suicidal thoughts and behaviours and Borderline Personality Disorder.

In more recent times, its use has been extended to treat substance misuse issues amongst young people.

The therapy takes a multi-pronged approach, blending mindfulness and meditation with Cognitive Behaviourial Therapy (CBT), interpersonal skills training to promote healthier relationships, managing emotions and distress tolerance.

How does Triple Care Farm use dialectical behaviour therapy?

Triple Care Farm uses dialectical behaviour therapy in a holistic way. All staff members have DBT training, including life skills trainers, youth workers, case managers and even sport and recreation workers.

DBT is integrated into the program in diverse ways, including: roleplays, practising present moment awareness in conversations, learning to cook and even playing Celebrity Heads. As Triple Care Farm senior psychologist, Sarah Green explains, “We try to make it fun”.

In this video, Ms. Green explains how Triple Care Farm encorporates DBT into all aspects of its program.

What does a young person’s Treatment Plan at the Farm look like?

More traditional dialectical behaviour therapy methods are also used during the residential programs, such as mandatory groups and optional one-on-one sessions with a counsellor.

Young people can regularly meet with their chosen counsellor, and integrate other therapies like art therapy and motivational interviewing.

DBT is also taught in skills training workshop, for example, distress tolerance training when a student is struggling with filling out a Maths workbook.

Why does dialectical behaviour therapy work well with addiction?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is all about ‘wiring a new routine into the brain. It’s an opportunity to choose a different way to behave to triggers.’

This is why DBT is particularly effective in treating addiction.

By focussing on mindfulness and the present moment, young people learn to “ride the wave” of their urges.

In the accompanying video, Ms. Green explains why DBT is effective in treating addiction.

An innovative model

Triple Care Farm is one of the only rehabilitation centres in Australia to use dialectical behaviour therapy, a highly effective, evidence based therapy model.
In particular, the use of DBT to treat young people battling with substance misuse issues makes TCF a pioneer in its field.

Students continue to use practical DBT skills in their everyday lives after the program, to better cope with difficulties when they arise, and gain a clearer perspective.

DBT Resources

Want to learn more about dialectical behaviour therapy? Below are some useful online resources:

Join our community

Subscribe to our newsletter for stories of impact, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.

Name(Required)
Privacy