Community approaches
Community approaches bring local people and organisations together to minimise alcohol and other drug (AOD) harm in their own area. Local Drug Action Teams (LDATs) work this way: partner organisations plan activities together through a Community Action Plan (CAP) that strengthens protective factors and reduces risk factors locally.
Developing a ‘whole of community’ approach means there is collaboration between local stakeholders to understand local alcohol and other drug issues. This ensures communities can implement evidence-informed activities.
Community ownership
Community-led programs strengthen the ability of the community to identify, prevent and respond to local alcohol and other drug issues. Programs that are community-led focus on gathering knowledge and resources as well as collaborating with local agencies and sectors. They also promote a sense of ownership and can increase engagement and participation.
Community approaches can be effective when they:
- understand local needs
- utilise data based on local risk factors
- implement evidence-informed prevention practices
- monitor and evaluate program quality.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation supports the formation of evidence-informed community prevention work through the Local Drug Action Team program.
Local Drug Action Teams (LDATs)
LDAT is a nationwide program that collaborates with community groups to prevent and minimise the harms caused by alcohol and other drugs. There are currently 273 LDATs operating across Australia.
LDATs engage community stakeholders, conduct community consultation, gather available data, and implement activities followed by evaluation.
The LDAT program provides multiple resources available on best practice for prevention strategies.
Frequently asked questions
Do community approaches to alcohol and drug harm minimisation work? Approaches that combine school-based and parenting activities show the most consistent benefits, particularly for alcohol. Community action is most effective when it is supported by policy and legal change.
What is the difference between community-led and community-based programs? A community-based program is delivered in a community, often by an outside organisation that helps local people identify issues and guides the action. A community-led program is planned and run by local people, who identify an issue and mobilise to address it, which builds ownership and participation. Either can work well, depending on the issue and the community.
How can my community get started? Start by identifying your local AOD issues and consulting your community.
What can make it hard to involve the community?
Common barriers include a lack of time, competing responsibilities such as caring and work, different local priorities, and accessibility needs. Without planning, the people involved can end up being only those with the most time and capacity. Planning inclusive consultation from the start helps more of the community take part.
Last reviewed: 21 October 2026