This report summarises the key discussions and major themes emerging from a summit aimed at finding ways to improve outcomes for people impacted by drugs in New South Wales (NSW). Based on broad-ranging consultation, the report sets out 56 priority actions, grouped under 12 areas for the NSW Government to consider. 

Growing evidence links social disadvantage and co-occurring mental and physical health concerns with drug use and harms. It is important that this understanding informs new policies and services, taking into account opportunities and challenges seen internationally in recent years. The summit aimed to identify and understand challenges and opportunities, to generate achievable actions for better health outcomes.

The report is accompanied by an appendix and companion document providing more detail and an in-depth analysis of submissions to the summit.

Priority action areas

• The service system: action, integration and design
• Funding models
• Prevention and early intervention
• Information and education
• Family and community support
• Youth specific services
• Aboriginal social and emotional wellbeing and cultural safety
• Workforce
• Stigma and discrimination
• Cannabis and driving
• Harm reduction
• The criminal justice system and policing