Useful resources

MERIT - The Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) program is a voluntary, pre-plea program for adults in the Local Court who have issues related to their alcohol and other drug use. MERIT provides access to a wide range of alcohol and other drug treatment services for 12 weeks while court matters are adjourned. MERIT has operated since 2000 and is currently available at 62 of the 137 Local Courts in NSW.

https://localcourt.nsw.gov.au/sentencing--orders-and-appeals/sentencing-in-criminal-cases/diversion-programs/the-merit-program.html

NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines' and Islanders' Day Observance Committee dating back to 1938 and the Day of Mourning but now celebrates achievements, culture and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

https://www.naidoc.org.au/about/naidoc-week

WDVCAS

WDVCAS is Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service provides free support and advice to women and children effected by domestic and family violence. Available at Hornsby Court on Tuesday each week.

https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/my-problem-is-about/my-family-or-relationship/domestic-and-family-violence/womens-domestic-violence-court-advocacy-services

Drug and Alcohol Services

If you need help addressing issues with Alcohol and Other Drugs contact the closest Local Area Health Service or hospital near you. This is a good starting point:

https://sydneynorthhealthnetwork.org.au/mentalhealthtriage/alcohol-and-other-drugs/