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Other Parliamentary SpeechesThis page is dedicated to Peter's speeches during parliament that do not fall under Questions or Questions without notice. They range from debating legislation, reporting on events or issues in his seat of Southport and his Ministerial Statements.
Crossroads Recovery Association |
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| Posted by Administrator (admin) on May 15 2003 |
| Other Speeches >> |
Mr LAWLOR (Southport-ALP) (7.16 p.m.): I had the pleasure Monday week ago of attending the 'Celebration in the park family day'. I represented and addressed the gathering on behalf of the Minister for Families, Judy Spence. The day was organised by the Crossroads Recovery Association. I congratulate the Chairman, David Merson, and the many Crossroads members and volunteers who put in a lot of effort which was unfortunately mitigated against by the inclement weather.
The enthusiasm and positive altitude of all who attended was impressive. This should not be a surprise because the Crossroads Recovery Association is well known throughout the state for its work in prevention, education and research of substance abuse and addictions. Crossroads is largely selffunded and carried out by volunteers. They provide assistance to some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our community, people who are recovering from the severe effects of substance abuse and addiction.
Substance abuse and addictions have an enormous social, economic and community cost. They result in domestic violence, family breakdown, gambling, unemployment and homelessness. Drug and alcohol abuse is one of the major factors in the increase in child protection abuse notifications for neglect. We know that abuse in all communities destroys families and individuals.
Last year the Beattie government, through the Department of Families, provided $12.7 million for non-government services in the Gold Coast region for child, family and community support. This was
60 per cent of the region's departmental budget. The Queensland families future direction initiatives will ensure that there will be tangible improvements in Queensland family lives with the key focus being prevention.
Today's new challenges sometimes mean that yesterday's solutions no longer work. Our future directions will explore new solutions and develop better services to address the needs of all Queensland families and communities in the future. The community sector, that is organisations such as Crossroads, is the government's close partner in making families strong and will receive greater recognition and support.
The Beattie government has demonstrated that it is committed to increasing funding for preventative support services and early interventions. Prevention and early intervention are critical in addressing issues related to drug and alcohol abuse. These programs need to be flexible to meet these needs and it is critical we aintain our capacity to respond effectively to individuals and families in crisis. Today's challenges mean no person or organisation is solely responsible; networks of individuals, businesses, community organisations and government must tackle problems together. It is for that reason that the government is so aware and appreciative of its non-government partners such as Crossroads. The family day was an opportunity to celebrate the freedom from addiction for recovering addicts and their families and to extend our appreciation to family members and community services that provide so much support during such a critical period in people's lives. Last changed: [PUBLISHED_DATE] at 9:00 AM
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