Alcohol and other drug treatment financing in Australia: Funding flows

This working paper provides a diagram of sources and flows for alcohol and drug treatment in Australia, and explanatory information. We have focused on what we believe are the primary funders and funding flows for alcohol and drug treatment. The working paper also includes key background information on the structure of the federal health system.

The working paper illustrates that alcohol and drug treatment funding is complex, and originates from multiple sources. Important sources of Commonwealth funding include: The National Health Funding Pool; National Partnership payments; grants schemes; the Medicare Benefits Scheme; and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Payments are made through these channels to services including public hospitals, pharmacies, government alcohol and drug services, community health services, non-government alcohol and drug services, doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists.

Keep up-to-date with drug policy developments by subscribing to the IDPC Monthly Alert.