CAAAPU endeavours to:

• Provide a safe, non-discriminatory healing place that equips clients with the tools with which to live a healthy, sober, active and productive life.

• Be a leading advocate in areas of alcohol and other drug dependency as recognition of the unique spiritual and cultural strengths of Aboriginal people.

• Ensure that it incorporates practices that enable clients to develop their full potential.

Work towards the reduction of the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs on individuals, families and the community, thus contributing to the well-being of our society.

CAAAPU, Central Australian Aboriginal Alcohol Programs, is the main alcohol rehabilitation provider in Central Australia, where alcohol is recognised as a major contributor of harm for Aboriginal people.

“We’re here to help your community beat the grog” is the message from the Central Australian Aboriginal Alcohol Programmes Unit (CAAAPU).

CAAAPU is working throughout Central Australia (in communities and organisations out bush as well as in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek) to develop strategies to turn around the devastating problems caused by alcohol abuse.

CAAAPU implements a comprehensive action plan that brings together all the elements needed to really make big changes in all our communities. The key factors include first class, culturally centred treatment and training and to be effective these programs are developed, controlled and staffed by Aboriginal people

Outreach Managers travel all over the area, speaking at meetings, talking to people, getting ideas from bush and town.

CAAAPU also hold regular management meeting tele-conferences, linking bush people on the phone with town representatives. CAAAPU have their own song, video, and make good use of our local Aboriginal radio station, CAAMA; Imparja TV; the ABC and the press to spread the word.

The CAAAPU philosophy is simple and clear. As grog is the biggest problem facing Aboriginal people in Central Australia, alcohol abuse should be tackled immediately. With combined action, CAAAPU believes major social change can take place, and Aboriginal people will then be empowered to deal with other problems such as health, housing, education and the criminal justice system.