Managing alcohol-related problems among Indigenous Australians: what the literature tells us

To contextualise and provide an overview of two review papers--prepared as part of a larger research program--dealing with different aspects of the treatment of Indigenous Australians with alcohol-related problems.

The papers were reviewed thematically and compared to identify key issues raised in them.

Together, the papers highlight the paucity of the evidence base for the provision of treatment for Indigenous Australians with alcohol-related problems. Among the key issues identified are: the need to engage with clients in culturally safe ways; practitioner, organisational and client barriers to engagement; the contexts in which Indigenous drinking and treatment take place; the need to develop rigorous methods of evaluation more appropriate to Indigenous cultural and service provision settings; and the importance of effective partnerships in the provision of services.

For those working in the field, the reviews direct attention to the need to review and interrogate our current practice. They also provide clear directions for future research.