Alcohol and Other Drug Services
Reducing harm. Restoring stability. Rebuilding lives
Alcohol, tobacco and other drug use is a major cause of preventable disease, illness and death in Australia.
In 2023, almost 4 million people had used an illicit drug in the previous 12 months – the equivalent of 1 in 5 Australians (17.9%).
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
Impact at scale
In FY25, The Salvation Army’s Alcohol and Other Drug services:
Assisted nearly 12,000 people impacted by addiction
Delivered more than 220,000 sessions of care
Provided more than 172,000 residential bed nights
In 2024, people reported positive progress after engaging with The Salvation Army’s alcohol and other drug treatment services including over 80% reporting a reduction in their use of alcohol, stimulants, cannabis and opioids
Participant outcomes data collected from FY23 showed:
- 91.7% of participants with previously high alcohol use recorded a clinically meaningful reduction
- 94.7% with a previously high stimulant use recorded a clinically meaningful reduction Clinically significant improvements were achieved for 81.5% of people who began treatment with ‘poor’ psychological health
- Stable housing increased from 64.9% before treatment to 87.9% after treatment
- Arrest rates dropped from 23% in the 28 days prior to treatment to 2.7% after treatment
Pathways out of addiction
We are dedicated to helping individuals build lives that are meaningful, connected and purposeful. While addressing substance use is key, strengthening relationships with family, friends and communities is also integral to long-term recovery.
Our comprehensive programs include:
- Detox/withdrawal management
- Residential rehabilitation programs delivered through 22 AOD centres across Australia
- Non-residential programs, including day programs, counselling, and case management services
- Primary health and harm reduction services
Measuring our impact
Outcomes are measured through a national AOD logic model, capturing indicators across individual capability, life circumstances, wellbeing and spirituality.
We also gather participant experience data, including satisfaction with services, confidence to manage challenges and intention to return to the service if needed.
In 2024/25 our Model of Care underwent an extensive evaluation by Deakin University which found that our model is well implemented in our services and puts us at the leading edge of evidence-based service delivery in Australia.
Our Alcohol And Other Drug Model of Care
Developed in 2021, The Salvation Army’s AOD Model of Care guides the design and delivery of treatment services across Australia.
The model ensures programs are consistent, evidence-based and aligned with state and national AOD policy. It also helps identify service gaps, drive innovation and strengthen best practice. evidence-based and aligned with state and national AOD policy. It also helps identify service gaps, drive innovation and strengthen best practice.
Real stories, real voices
“I feel that I now have the tools to cope better with challenging situations, furthermore, I am thinking clearer. I have a more positive outlook on life.”
– Male, 26-35 years old, Queensland
Get in touch
Together, we can reduce addiction and empower people to reach their potential
Supporting The Salvation Army helps fund comprehensive alcohol and other drug programs, and create pathways for people to rebuild their lives with purpose and dignity.
Your support strengthens communities, reduces pressure on public services and helps to prevent intergenerational trauma.
Join us in creating a future where vulnerable Australians can achieve stability, wellbeing and long-term recovery.
Partner with The Salvation Army and make a lasting difference.
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