Urgent action needed: The Lookout misses out in state budget again

WRAD Health chief executive officer Mark Powell said he would continue to push to ensure the essential facility is funded.

"Despite repeated calls and extensive efforts, the lack of commitment from government bodies to support the establishment of the facility is deeply concerning," Mr Powell said.

"It is imperative that stakeholders recognise the urgency of the situation and allocate the necessary resources to bring this vital project to fruition."

Mr Powell said the need for a dedicated alcohol and other drug (AOD) residential rehabilitation facility in south-west Victoria had been evident for more than a decade.

"WRAD Health has been pursuing the development of The Lookout for more than seven years, driven by a comprehensive demand analysis that underscores the urgency for such a facility in the Great South Coast region.

"It is well supported by a range of community services and community members, with more than $1 million pledged or donated to get this project off the ground."

Mr Powell said the service's statistics painted a stark picture of the challenges faced by the region.

"In 2023, WRAD Health's AOD clinical services delivered 826 treatment episodes, with alcohol being the primary drug of concern for 53 per cent of cases," Mr Powell said.

"Unfortunately, demand outweighs treatment provision."

Mr Powell said health perspective data from 2012-2021 showed there were 8,302 hospitalisations where drugs were the main reason for admission in Warrnambool, Southern Grampians, Glenelg, Corangamite and Moyne.

He said there were 5844 alcohol and drug related ambulances attendances across Warrnambool Moyne, Glenelg, Corangamite and Southern Grampians over a similar time frame.

"Further, there were 2173 deaths related to alcohol and illicit drugs within the Corangamite, Glenelg, Moyne, Southern Grampians and Warrnambool areas.

"These numbers do not reflect road deaths, but where is our 'towards zero' campaign?"

Mr Powell said there had also been an increase in crime across the region.

"In Warrnambool we have seen an overall 13.8 per cent increase in offending with rates of family violence up 18.5 per cent higher than the state average.

"Incidents involving assault are up, incidents involving breach of family violence orders are up, drug possession is up.

"Similarly in Glenelg, increased rates of breach of family violence order and drug possession as well criminal damage."

Mr Powell said the absence of a dedicated AOD residential rehabilitation facility exacerbated these issues, leaving individuals and families without access to the crucial support they need to overcome addiction.

"Without proper intervention, the cycle of substance misuse perpetuates, leading to further strain on healthcare systems, law enforcement, and social services," Mr Powell said.

"The Lookout, spearheaded by WRAD Health, aims to address this pressing need by providing evidence-based, proven treatment in a supportive and therapeutic environment.

"By offering comprehensive programs tailored to individual needs, including counselling, medical services, and supported accommodation, the facility will empower individuals to reclaim their lives and reintegrate into society without the need to return to substance use."

The Standard revealed last month the facility would not be built at the proposed Dennington site.