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

Abstract

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 theAODS.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 termto organisational development for the long term. © 2009 Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.