Stronger Together: Collaborative Pathways for Co-Morbidity Care
17 Sep 2025
The event brought together senior staff from across the region to explore ways to strengthen integrated care and improve support for people living with both mental health and substance use challenges.
Facilitated by Sharon Pedersen, the roundtable opened with a powerful lived experience story, reminding participants why collaboration in this sector is so vital.
Guest speakers included:
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Kate Whitney, presenting on behalf of Hello Sunday Morning, an Australian not-for-profit helping people change their relationship with alcohol.
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Sally Boardman from The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, who shared evidence-based strategies and comorbidity guidelines for improving service partnerships.
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Nicole Gonzaga, SWSPHN HealthPathways and Planning Coordinator, who presented findings from the Local Health Forum on the future of alcohol and drug support in the region.
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Simone Angus-Carr from the Ted Noffs Foundation, Australia’s largest provider of youth drug treatment services.
Acting Mental Health and AOD Manager, Pritika Desai, said the roundtable provided a valuable space for connection and shared learning.
“The roundtable continues to serve as a vital platform for building stronger partnerships to support those living with both mental health and substance use challenges. We thank all guest speakers and participants for contributing to a day of collaboration and knowledge-sharing,” Ms Desai said.
For more information on alcohol and other drug services in South Western Sydney, visit SWSPHN Alcohol and Other Drugs Services.
