Ice action plan is needed now

THE scourge of ice has impacted countless communities across Victoria.
This is why I was pleased that our government recently announced Victoria’s Ice Action Plan – a landmark $45.4 million effort to reduce the supply, demand and harm of ice within our communities.
This evil drug and those who distribute it have wreaked havoc throughout our state, targeting the most vulnerable within our society with this poison.
There is no doubt that action needed to be taken and our plan is an important step forward in our fight against this drug.
It includes an $18 million commitment to expanding drug treatment and rehabilitation facilities that will help users get the help they desperately need.
Last week we also announced the establishment of a new Ice Help Line.
The 24/7 Help Line – 1800 ICE ADVICE (1800 423 238) directs users and families to vital treatment and support services and provides general information to the community about ice.
The Andrews Labor Government is committed to tackling this issue head-on and this initiative stems from the work of the Ice Taskforce, established soon after we formed government last year.
Ice is ruining lives across our state; it’s highly addictive and has a terrible impact on the user’s mental and physical health.
Whether you live in the hills, suburban Melbourne or within regional or rural Victoria, the insidious nature of this drug has shown us that our community is just as vulnerable as any.
The Ice Action Plan makes it easier for those addicted and those close to them to get the help they need.
It’s time we stepped up in our fight against this evil drug within our community.
Our Ice Action Plan will help reverse the devastating impact of this drug.
I strongly encourage anyone who has been touched by this epidemic to call the help line and make sure that you have access to all available support.