VICTORIA'S only drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre for teens under 16 has been denied adequate State Government funding for more than 10 years because of "competing demands".
Tandana Place, which helps people aged 13-20, closed last June after a decline in donations.
After extensive media coverage, it re-opened in September when a private donor pledged $100,000 to save the service.
While the Department of Human Services provides Tandana with about $87,000 a year for referrals through correctional services, the centre still needs $100,000 more a year to keep its doors open.
Since Waverley Emergency Adolescent Care opened the service in 1999, it has asked the State Government for its full funding needs.
Speaking to the Journal last Monday, Premier John Brumby said funding for Tandana was "considered alongside other competing demands".
"We provide $87,000 annually...and at this point in time we continue to fund the service.
"We've obviously provided significant increases in funding right across government for addressing alcohol and drug issues but Tandana will be considered alongside other competing demands."
WEAC chief executive Maureen Buck said the $87,000 was not direct funding for drug or alcohol counselling and that it was a "disgrace" the Government continued to deny funds for the service.
"There is still nowhere in Victoria for people who are 13, 14, 15 presenting with drug addiction.
"
Since August 1999, Tandana has helped 232 clients with drug and alcohol problems.
Email a friend