(Community Recognition Statement, 4 June 2024, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I would like to acknowledge the 20th anniversary of the non-profit SMART Recovery Australia, who run addiction self help groups across NSW and Australia. SMART Recovery is an evidence-based recovery method using cognitive behavioural therapy to support people with substance dependencies or problem behaviours to lead a balanced life. The focus on recovery recognises that we can learn new behaviours and adapt coping strategies to improve our lives and reduce problematic behaviours, complementing the harm minimisation approach of most alcohol and drug services.

I recently met with the SMART Recovery Australia CEO and heard about the success of their programs, with about 30 regular meetings occurring across NSW and more than 70 regular participants from the Sydney electorate. The groups can also include friends and family members, helping them support positive behaviour change. SMART Recovery first started in King Cross in 1994 as an evidence-based and secular option and it is great to see these groups are still going strong and have expanded across the country.