The state government announced at the weekend a $6-million treatment centre would be built in the region.

The commitment will make up part of a bigger statewide ice plan. 

The government has not yet determined the centre’s location, but has said it will be close to Ballarat and will include up to 20 residential rehabilitation beds.   

The government expects work to help decide a location will start in the next few months. 

Mental Health Minister Martin Foley made the funding announcement in South East Melbourne on Saturday, along with a range of other commitments worth $57.6 million.

These included $32 million to expand the Drug Court of Victoria, $4 million over four years for a pilot project to respond to ice in Aboriginal communities, and $5.5 million for further training and support to equip front line workers. 

“The Grampians facility will give users the treatment they need and give families the support they deserve – especially in regional Victoria where people are suffering disproportionately from the effects of this vicious drug,” Mr Foley said.

“This is an important next step for our Ice Action Plan and we will work with health service providers, police and the community to get it right.”

The entire package of commitments make up part two of the state government’s Ice Action Plan. 

Stage one provided $45.5 million to address urgent issues including more support for families, providing treatment for users, protecting frontline workers, closing down drug manufacturers.