Aproposed drug and alcohol facility for the Limestone Coast is on the national radar, following a successful submission from Substance Misuse Limestone Coast (SMLC) to join the PLACE Roadshow and Listening Tour.
SMLC hosted the Partnerships for Local Action and Community Empowerment (PLACE) team in Mount Gambier this week, along with key stakeholders, detailing how the dedicated AOD facility would benefit the region.
The project is one of nine South Australian projects on the tour and the only one in Mount Gambier.
PLACE is a national organisation that supports the adoption of place-based approaches in local communities across Australia, with the tour representing a vital step in shaping an emerging national strategy for place-based change.
In June 2024, SMLC announced it was investigating the potential for successful alcohol and other drug (AOD) service model – Warrnambool’s WRAD Health – to be replicated in the Limestone Coast.
WRAD Health chief executive Mark Powell joined the SMLC team for the visit, detailing the successful western Victoria service model.
Representatives from ac care, City of Mount Gambier, South Australian Cross Border Commissioner, Lifeline, Life Without Barriers, Nick McBride MP, Troy Bell MP and SAPOL were also in attendance.
SMLC Project Manager Sophie Bourchier said the PLACE team had identified areas for potential partnerships and added fresh perspective to the long-term project.
“Delivering a collaborative AOD model for the region has been a long-term goal for SMLC,” Ms Bourchier said.
“A place-based approach is about intimately knowing your environment and your community and utilising that knowledge for excellence in best practice service delivery.
“Our ultimate goal is for a similar standalone facility that may begin with a co-located arrangement delivering services covering the Limestone Coast, with outreach services from Mount Gambier and Naracoorte.”
The SMLC team thanked PLACE representatives for their time and consideration of the proposal, which will include future direction on workforce development and policy, funding and service systems.
PLACE Australia chief executive Luke Craven said the organisation’s vision is about communities taking the lead in shaping policies and initiatives that affect them.
“This tour is about listening, learning, and strengthening connections to support meaningful, long-term place-based impact,” he said.
“Our goal is to elevate community leadership and ensure decision-making is shared with governments – firmly grounded in real-world experiences and local priorities.”
