DRUG COURT SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION PROGRAM (MISO)

This program is part of the Queensland Drug Court Pilot Program and helps drug dependent offenders to deal with their addiction(s) by combining treatment services, correctional programs, and frequent drug testing, with supervision by the Courts.

Who?
Drug Court clients are non-violent offenders, who are referred on a suspended sentence undertaking an Intensive Drug Rehabilitation Order (IDRO) for a period specified by the Drug Court Magistrate. All potential clients are assessed by Queensland Health who refer the client to the Gold Coast Drug Council. An additional assessment then takes place to decide which particular Drug Court program the client is suited to.

Drug Court Supported Accommodation clients are individuals over 18 years old, who are subject to an Intensive Drug Rehabilitation Order (IDRO). All Participants are assessed to determine whether they are able to reside in supported accommodation or have the necessary social support to reside in safe, stable private accommodation.

How?
This program provides case management; medical support; counselling; advocacy; court support; crisis intervention and social activities. Participants of the program are initially required to attend a regular Outclient Living Skills group, with a gradual reduction in attendance as the participant progresses through the three-stage program. The Supported Accommodation program includes house visits and weekly house meetings.

Clients of the Supported Accommodation Service need to transfer to either residential rehabilitation or outclient services, either at the Gold Coast Drug Council or to an external agency, prior to completing their IDRO. It is expected that most clients would need to spend at least 12 months in Supported Accommodation before they are able to reach this stage of independent living.

Where?
The Supported Accommodation is based within the Gold Coast area.

Cost?
This program, free of charge to clients, is funded by the Queensland Department of Families, with housing provided by the Queensland Department of Community Housing.