This research project was conducted on behalf of the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) in order to inform future communication strategies and policy designed to reduce the incidence of substance abuse among Aboriginal young people in the East Kimberly and Central Desert Regions (CDR). This research was conducted by the Cultural and Indigenous Research Centre Australia (CIRCA).
The key project objectives were as follows:
- Identify and evaluate specific communication targets, messages, tools and resources used to date as well as the possible variations in messages across different target audiences and regions
- Identify key target audiences (i.e. youth, community elders, service providers, government agencies) and key messages to promote healthy and active lifestyles and to support community aspirations
- Identify the current range of programs, physical and service resources and communication strategies currently deployed in the target regions. Within this, understand the communications 'clutter' of messaging targeting young people with active life choices, diversions from substance abuse and community resources for petrol sniffing prevention and rehabilitation.
- Identify strategies for engaging partners and stakeholders in FaHCSIA communication strategies to achieve a more integrated, community-focussed approach
- Explore opportunities for FaHCSIA in working with other Commonwealth Government and State and Territory partners to develop long term, consistent and sustainable communication strategies to support youth diversion programs in remote communities
- Determine key linkages in resources, networks and programs that would support optimal communication and best practice in future policy development.