Why is this service needed?

People who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex or Queer (LGBTIQA+) often experience drug and alcohol use related to coping with pressures associated with accepting their sexual orientation, gender identity or intersex status. For some, these additional stressors, as well as the stigma and resulting tension of being a member of a marginalised community, contribute to problematic substance use.

When compared with the general population, LGBTIQ+ people are more likely to use alcohol and drugs and:

• have higher rates of substance use disorders
• have higher rates of co-occurring mental health diagnoses
• are less likely to abstain from use, and
• are more likely to continue drinking alcohol at risky levels into later life. 

The LGBTIQ+ population has difficulty accessing drug treatment programs and is likely to have lower treatment success rates than the general population if they feel their needs are not being met. Evidence shows a high proportion of LGBTIQ+ people would prefer to use LGBTIQ+-specific services.

About the Service 

SEMPHN seeks to commission a comprehensive, innovative, evidence-driven Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex or Queer (LGBTIQ+)-specific alcohol and other drug treatment service.

Models of care may include a combination of the following in-scope treatment types:

• Early intervention targeting less problematic drug use, including brief intervention
• Counselling
• Withdrawal management with pathways to post-acute withdrawal support and relapse prevention
• Day stay rehabilitation and other intensive non-residential programs
• Post rehabilitation support, aftercare support and relapse prevention
• Case management, care planning and coordination.

Treatment may include a variety of clinical and psychoeducational elements targeting AOD and co-occurring disorders. Availability of on-site multi-disciplinary services (including, but not limited to mental health support, GP services, housing services, employment/education services, etc.) are highly favourable.

Locations

Respondents are asked to specify the proposed location(s) of service delivery within the SEMPHN catchment as well as the rationale for the location and how it plans to provide catchment-wide access to the service. 

How to apply

• All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure.
• All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure.

Key dates

3 October: Tender opens
21 October, 3pm: Questions close in eProcure
28 October, 3pm: Tender closes
Early/mid December: Contract commences
30 June 2024: Contract ends