Family Drug Support (FDS) today called on communities to “See the Person, Not the Drug” and
strengthen support for families affected by alcohol and other drug use as part of International
Family Drug Support Day (IFDSD) 2026.
Established in 2016 and held annually around 24 February, IFDSD recognises the critical role
families play when supporting a relative impacted by substance use. When families are given
education, awareness and practical tips on coping and keeping safe, outcomes improve for
everyone. The 2026 theme, See the Person, Not the Drug, calls on communities to challenge
stigma and look beyond labels.
While alcohol and other drug use affects the whole community, families often carry the greatest
burden — frequently facing stigma, discrimination and isolation while supporting a loved one.
Family Drug Support Founder and Patron Tony Trimingham OAM said:
“Any family anywhere, regardless of background, economic and other circumstances can be
affected by drugs. We hope this annual event will reach members of the community and change
some of the negative attitudes that exist.”
The event is supported by the Queensland Mental Health Commission, Queensland Health,
Greens MP Michael Berkman and AVIVE Health.
Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Ivan Frkovic said:
“Families play a vital role every day in supporting, protecting and advocating for their loved ones,
yet their contribution is too often invisible. International Family Drug Support Day is an important
opportunity to recognise that work, challenge stigma and ensure families are seen, heard and
supported,”
Events will take place across Australia and internationally, uniting communities to recognise the
vital role families play and challenge the stigma that often prevents them from seeking support.
Event: International Family Drug Support Day 2026
Date: 24th February 2026
Time: 9:45 am – 12:15 pm
Venue: Premier’s and Speaker’s Hall, Queensland Parliament House
Register for the Brisbane event: https://internationalfdsday.fds.org.au/2026-events
For further information contact:
Anna Daglish
Email: anna@fds.org.au
Phone: 0490 536 931
About Family Drug Support
- Established by Tony Trimingham in 1997, Family Drug Support (FDS) has contact with over 25,000 families every year.
- FDS provides 24/7 support (Phone: 1300 368 186), education and information courses, online support and regular support meetings in capital cities and a growing number of regional centres.
- For more information, visit: www.fds.org.au
Support services
ADIS 1800 177833
Lifeline (National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline) 1800 250 015
13YARN 13 92 76
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
Communicating safely
Language matters. Review the Mindframe guidelines for safe reporting about mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and suicide: https://mindframe.org.au/guidelines.
