Evidence shows that minimising the harms associated with alcohol and other drugs is most effective when people can talk openly and honestly about their ideas and experiences and take ownership of safety strategies.

Australia21 and our YoungA21 youth advisors have partnered with the Australian Lions Drug Awareness Foundation (ALDAF) to engage young Australians in informed conversations about protecting themselves, their friends and their communities.

Smarter About Drugs takes the unique approach of encouraging young people to critically examine the effectiveness of Australian and international drug policies. It also gives young people the opportunity to suggest ways in which current strategies could be improved, allowing them a voice in public debate on the issue.

Smarter About Drugs: A conversation pack has been developed for a wide age group, from upper primary through to senior secondary students, as well as adolescents and young adults outside of schools. It has been rigorously vetted by teachers and academics and mapped to the curriculum with the assistance of the Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation (ACHPER). In addition, it’s been adapted for use in other subjects, so schools can take a more holistic approach to drug education. It’s also being used by drug and alcohol counsellors, community groups and other organisations supporting at-risk youth across Australia.

Now you can be part of this innovative strategy:

Join the network of schools, counsellors & community groups becoming

Smarter About Drugs.

I’d like to ask a question about Smarter About Drugs

See how Smarter About Drugs: A Conversation pack is used in schools.

Check out the creative responses to Smarter About Drugs: A conversation pack.

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