SWSPHN proudly hosted its ninth annual Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Roundtable, Stronger Together: Collaborative Pathways for Co-Morbidity Care, on Wednesday, 4 September, bringing together senior staff from services across the region to discuss ways to strengthen integrated care in the sector.
Facilitated by Sharon Pedersen, the roundtable highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in addressing complex needs within the community.
The day began with a powerful lived experience story followed by a presentation from Kate Whitney, on behalf of Hello Sunday Morning, an Australian not-for-profit dedicated to helping people change their relationship with alcohol.
Participants then heard from Sally Boardman of The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, who shared evidence-based insights into comorbidity guidelines and strategies for improving service partnerships.
After a networking lunch, SWSPHN’s HealthPathways and Planning Coordinator, Nicole Gonzaga, presented findings from the recent Local Health Forum, which focused on shaping the future of alcohol and other drugs support in the region.
The afternoon session concluded with a presentation from Simone Angus-Carr, a representative from the Ted Noffs Foundation, Australia’s largest provider of drug treatment services for young people.
Acting Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Manager, Pritika Desai, said the event was a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and share knowledge across the sector.
“SWSPHN would like to thank all guest speakers and participants for contributing to a day of collaboration and learning,” she said.
“The roundtable continues to serve as a vital platform for building stronger partnerships to support those living with both mental health and substance use challenges.”
Find out more about alcohol and other drugs services in South Western Sydney
