The website, located at www.positivestories.org.au, is designed to highlight that when it comes to drug and alcohol problems, treatment works. The ANCD highlights that thousands of Australians are currently in treatment programs and that treatment can make a world of difference.

At the Positive Stories website there are many real life stories from people who have battled issues and successfully beaten their problems. The Australian National Council on Drugs is also urging women and men across Australia who have beaten problems with alcohol and drugs to submit their stories of triumph so that others can be inspired.

ANCD executive director Gino Vumbaca says it is vital people realise many other people have problems with alcohol and drugs too and that they are not alone.

Gino Vumbaca said this project was an Australian first.

“It’s all about positives. It’s all about inspiring others. There is a view in society that you cannot get out of the trap of substance abuse. That’s just not true - and thousands of people around the nation who have become clean or sober have disproved that idea.”

Minister for Health and Ageing Nicola Rixon said there were thousands of Australians who struggle with substance abuse.

“This project is important because it has the potential to inspire these people to turn their lives around,” she said.

“Positive Stories has been developed to clearly demonstrate that help is available - and that it is possible to become drug-free. The Government is committed to tackling drug and alcohol abuse and hopefully this project can play a part in helping us to meet that challenge.”

The “Positive Stories” website also contains details on agencies across the nation - in all states and territories - who can offer support, assistance and information about getting treatment.