Alcohol and other drug programs are provided at all prisons. Programs include individual counselling, psycho-educational programs, long-term group therapy and transitional assistance programs. Access is based on an assessment of need and suitability. Every prisoner entering prison receives harm reduction education to minimise the harm associated with drug use.
All drug treatment programs in Victoria’s prisons are based on a substantial body of research. Offenders who engage in structured cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) interventions show reductions in drug use and reoffending.
The Corrections Alcohol and Drug Strategy 2015 – Overview describes the approach to dealing with alcohol and drug use across all correctional environments in Victoria, integrating the key principles and strategies employed within both adult prison settings and community correctional services.
Drug withdrawal
People in custody can access drug withdrawal support.
Taking or supplying illicit drugs and drinking or supplying alcohol is illegal in Victorian prisons.
Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD)
Opioid dependence is a recognised health issue requiring therapeutic intervention.
People in custody have access to MATOD which aims to reduce opioid-related harm including overdose and death, transmission of bloodborne viruses, and the effects of withdrawal. Access to this treatment will be determined by health staff and assessed on a case-by-case basis as per the criteria for diagnosis for opioid use disorder.
Continuity of care on transfer to other custodial facilities or into the community will occur for the health and wellbeing of people accessing MATOD. The custodial health service provider will attempt to make appointments with prescribing practitioners in the community and pharmacists.
Justice Health have issued a MATOD position statement. As of 1 July 2024 the Victorian Prison Opioid Substitution Therapy Program Guidelines (2015) have been retired. Custodial health service providers have contemporary policies and procedures to treat alcohol and drug related health needs, which are applicable to a custodial setting.
Related documents:
Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) - position statement
Healthcare Services Quality Framework for Victorian Prisons 2023 (External link)
Nicotine withdrawal
People in prison experiencing nicotine cravings or withdrawals can access health services and support, such as Quitline, at no cost.
Health service providers can prescribe therapies, including two medications, for managing addiction in accordance with clinical requirements.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) patches are not supplied.