About the National Practice Framework
The National Practice Framework for the management of mental health conditions in alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment settings outlines principles for the delivery of inclusive, equitable, and accessible care that recognises co-occurring mental health conditions as core business, is holistic and person-centred, integrated and collaborative, with a focus on connection and engagement. It promotes high-quality evidence-based care that is trauma-informed, upholds dignity and respect, and is delivered by a skilled and proficient workforce.
These principles encompass the values, attitudes, knowledge and skills required of the AOD workforce, services and systems to successfully respond to co-occurring AOD and mental health conditions. Collectively, they represent the standard of care that should be expected across the AOD sector.
Audience
The principles have been developed for organisations and practitioners within the government, nongovernment or private sectors that provide specialised services for the treatment of AOD-related issues.
Development
The framework was developed with guidance and oversight from a Steering Committee comprising representatives from both the government and non-government AOD sectors, people with lived and living experience and others with relevant expertise from across Australia. Expert Advisory Groups were formed to provide perspectives in relation to priority population groups. Further details regarding the development process are outlined in the document.