The Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Residential Rehabilitation Network Limited (ADARRN) is an Australian nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting Aboriginal communities through a network of specialised residential rehabilitation services. Established to address the unique needs of Aboriginal people experiencing alcohol and other drug (AOD) issues, ADARRN serves as a collective of Aboriginal-controlled rehabilitation centres distributed across Australia.

Mission and Purpose

ADARRN focuses on providing culturally appropriate residential treatment and healing services tailored specifically for Aboriginal people. The organisation recognises the distinct social, cultural, and historical factors that impact substance use within Aboriginal communities and aims to deliver holistic care that integrates these elements into rehabilitation programs. Through a network approach, ADARRN facilitates collaboration, advocacy, and the sharing of best practices among its member services to enhance treatment effectiveness and community outcomes.

Structure and Activities

Comprising representatives from Aboriginal residential rehabilitation services nationally, ADARRN regularly convenes to discuss sector challenges and advocate for culturally grounded treatment options. The network also participates in the development of models of care that reflect Aboriginal perspectives and foster community control over health interventions. This collaborative effort strengthens Aboriginal health organisations’ capacity to deliver specialised AOD treatment and supports continuous improvement in service delivery.

Model of Care

ADARRN has developed a distinctive Model of Care emphasising cultural safety, community connection, and healing principles rooted in Aboriginal traditions. This model guides the therapeutic process in member rehabilitation centres, ensuring that clients receive support that acknowledges their cultural identity and personal experiences. The network promotes the integration of this culturally specific approach into broader alcohol and other drug specialist treatment sectors to improve engagement and outcomes for Aboriginal clients.

Impact and Research

Research into Aboriginal residential rehabilitation services highlights the importance of culturally tailored treatment programs, with ADARRN’s network members contributing to this evidence base. Studies have shown that clients attending such services often have complex needs including polysubstance use, mental health concerns, and interactions with the criminal justice system. ADARRN’s approach facilitates client-centered care that addresses these multifaceted challenges while honouring Aboriginal cultural frameworks.

Recognition and Role in the Community

As an Aboriginal community-controlled organisation, ADARRN plays a critical role in advocating for Indigenous-led responses to substance misuse. The network’s work underscores the value of self-determination and culturally competent care in improving health and wellbeing among Aboriginal populations. Through its ongoing efforts, ADARRN enhances awareness, resources, and support for Aboriginal residential rehabilitation services across Australia.

ADARRN exemplifies a committed, culturally grounded network responding to the specific rehabilitation needs of Aboriginal Australians, fostering healing, resilience, and community empowerment within the realm of alcohol and other drug treatment.

[1] https://www.adarrn.org.au [2] https://aodknowledgecentre.ecu.edu.au/key-resources/organisations/1430/?title=Aboriginal+Drug+and+Alcohol+Residential+Rehabilitation+Network++ADARRN+&contenttypeid=3&contentid=1430_3 [3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5969080/ [4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMe0jqSTsdk [5] https://nada.org.au/resources/adarrn-model-of-care/