Issues for sustainability of non-government organisations in the alcohol and other drugs sector.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

The study aimed to identify issues for sustainability of non-government organisations in the alcohol and other drugs sector (AODS) in Australia within the current neoliberal context.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Six key-informant group consultations were conducted in Sydney, Melbourne, Darwin (Australia). Participants were professionals working in the AODS from non-government AOD organisations, government departments, philanthropic organisations and academic institutions (n = 40). Qualitative data were collected according to a discussion guide.

RESULTS

Issues related to problems with workforce capacity, independence, governance and funding. Factors contributing to these issues related to the competitive tendering funding model, for example: accountability requirements and tied funding.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Issues identified by the AODS were mostly similar to those identified by the broader non-government organisations sector. There is much to learn from outside the AODS. Strategies to improve sustainability will include workforce development, improving governance and developing relationships within the sector and with government. These require a commitment to innovation and will entail movement of resources from service provision in the short term to organisational development for the long term.