NADA Seeks $13M Annual Increase
The Network of Alcohol and other Drugs Agencies (NADA) is urging the New South Wales Government to overhaul funding for the alcohol and other drug (AOD) sector, recommending an increase of $13 million annually over the next five years.
This request comes ahead of the 2026/27 State Budget, with NADA highlighting the need to support 100,000 individuals in NSW who currently lack access to necessary services.
"The 2024 NSW Drug Summit clearly identified the problem and its causes; this Budget must deliver the solutions," said NADA CEO, Dr Robert Stirling. "The NSW Government can fund the non-government AOD sector to provide 10,000 journeys to recovery, or it can keep people on a waitlist that in many cases is simply too long to survive."
Complex Needs Highlighted
NADA emphasises that the sector is currently dealing with complex cases often involving mental health issues and domestic violence. Data from four AOD treatment facilities show that between 87% and 100% of patients present with mental health challenges, while approximately 90% have experienced domestic or family violence.
In proposing the funding increase, NADA aims to expand access to treatment for an additional 10,000 individuals annually, improve treatment for pregnant women and parents, and address workforce retention issues caused by uncompetitive wages.
Dr Stirling highlighted the efficiency of the AOD sector, stating, "For every dollar invested, our sector saved the taxpayer seven in terms of interactions with the health, justice, policing and community services systems."
NADA is asking for a $13 million increase year-on-year to baseline funding, resulting in $65 million in funding per year by 2029-30. This funding will allow the AOD sector to increase access to treatment for 10,000 more people every year.
The funding proposal also focuses on expanding treatment for pregnant women and parents. This is considered a complex but essential investment that strengthens families, supports children’s wellbeing, and improves long-term outcomes.
Dr Stirling noted that on any given day, more than 1,800 people are waiting for NGO services. These services deliver nearly 50% of all treatment provided in NSW.
NADA's funding proposal includes efforts to employ people in culturally safe roles to better support First Nations, Multicultural, and LGBTIQ+ clients. The organisation's members achieve excellent client results, with 80% of those treated showing positive outcomes.
The funding increase is also intended to help the NSW Government meet the 16 priorities established during the NSW Drug Summit and to support the First 2,000 Days Framework for children's wellbeing.
According to Dr Stirling, the AOD sector is the most efficient partner the government has. Funding more AOD services would deliver a win for the people who need help and a win for the budget too.
Last updated: 22 April 2026, 1:34 pm
