General News
9 September, 2025
Community play a “powerful role” in overdose prevention, expert says
A recent report revealed overdose deaths in the Central Goldfields Shire remain low as community members are urged to not become complacent.
The Coroners Court of Victoria report, Victorian Overdose Deaths 2015–2024, shows while Victoria is at a decade high for fatal overdoses, last year the Central Goldfields Shire recorded one death with a maximum of two in any year over the last decade.
However, Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) alcohol and other drug clinician Angie Haywood questions how well the statistics reflect her “ground level” experience locally.
She reminds the community while the data looks low, it’s no reason to become complacent.
“Ongoing education and awareness are essential to help keep overdose rates low,” she said.
“We need to continue working together to ensure our community stays safe and informed.”
Her words follow last month’s International Overdose Awareness Day which reminded communities across the world that overdose is preventable when supported by community-wide effort.
It’s a sentiment echoed by Ms Haywood who said the community can play a “powerful role” in overdose prevention.
“An overdose can happen to anyone. All drugs, including prescribed medications, can cause overdose,” she said.
“Knowing what an overdose looks like, recognising the signs, and understanding how to respond can give people the confidence to act in an emergency. A quick and informed response can save a life.”
However, Ms Haywood explained, stigma surrounding substance use, addiction and overdose is a barrier that creates division within communities that can stop people seeking help.
“Stigma removes a person’s voice. It can lead to shame, isolation and a loss of identity, especially for people who are already vulnerable. When someone feels stigmatised, they may try to hide their substance use or avoid asking for help because they fear being judged or discriminated against,” she said.
Ms Haywood reminds the community that dependence and addiction are medical conditions where there should be no shame in seeking support.
“Challenging stigma is essential to reducing overdose risk and supporting recovery,” she said.
Locals can help, Ms Haywood explained, by offering non-judgemental support to loved ones who may be experiencing addiction.
“Creating a safe and compassionate environment can make it easier for people to reach out for help,” she said.
She encourages those experiencing substance dependence — which can include pharmaceutical and illegal drugs as well as alcohol — to self-refer to Maryborough District Health Service for Alcohol and Other Drug services.
Available services include assessment, AOD counselling, care and recovery coordination support, and non-residential withdrawal support.
Referrals can also be made by a GP.
MDHS also operates a Needle and Syringe Program which provides access to clean injecting equipment 24/7.
Additional local support is also available through The Salvation Army Maryborough.
A life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, called Naloxone, is also available free over the counter at Priceline Pharmacy Maryborough.
“All overdoses are preventable. Overdose awareness gives our community the knowledge and tools to keep people safe and reduce harm,” Ms Haywood said.
More support and information is available at:
Local community health services (MDHS)
Directline: 24/7 Confidential Alcohol and Drug counselling 1800 888 236 (Victoria)
International Overdose Awareness Day: https://www.overdoseday.com/
Australian Drug Foundation: https://adf.org.au/
Family Drug Support: https://www.fds.org.au