October 2022
ACT Drug Strategy Action Plan 2022–26
The MHCC ACT supports the principle of harm minimisation and commends the ACT Government for its demonstrated commitment to approaching drug use as primarily a health issue, adopting evidence-based policies and minimising the involvement of the justice system as much as possible.
We also commend the government for its associated commitments to eliminating stigma and discrimination against people who interact with Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs services and to recognise the invaluable contribution of lived experience and the peer workforce to this sector. The recognition in the Action Plan of the importance of the non-governmental sector and of the effective collaboration and integration supporting the provision of AOD services in the ACT is noted and reiterated.
This submission is focused on those elements of the Action Plan that relate to the interaction between the AOD sector and the wider community-managed mental health sector.
September 2022
Public Exposure Draft of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2022
MHCC ACT welcomes the ACT Government’s aspiration to make “renting a secure and sustainable option for those who rely on it”, and particularly welcomes the abolition of “no cause” evictions. However, we recommend the government limit the grounds for eviction rather than introducing new grounds. This includes removing the ‘behavioural grounds’ for eviction from the Bill.
We recommend that the ACT Government introduce a standalone ‘reasonable and proportionate’ test that requires the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal to consider whether an eviction order would be reasonable and proportionate in the circumstances of each case.
August 2022
Inquiry into the Legislative, Workplace Governance and Clinical Frameworks of DHULWA
The MHCC ACT understands the serious safety concerns of staff that led to this Inquiry being initiated and acknowledges the importance of a safe and respectful environment for staff, consumers and carers within the Dhulwa Mental Health Unit.
We believe there needs to be dedicated and supported consultation with consumers and carers to ensure that their input is considered alongside the vital input from Dhulwa staff.
Along with greater inclusivity in decision-making, more transparency around policies, processes and procedures should assist in promoting constructive relationships between all stakeholders.