International Family Drug Support Day

International Family Drug Support Day first started in 2016 and is held annually on or around 24 February to draw attention to the importance of families affected by alcohol and/or drugs, including the benefits of supporting families. When families are given education, awareness and tips on coping and keeping safe, the outcome for everyone is improved.

From small beginnings it has grown to international events in most Australian major cities and several overseas. The overall theme for the FDS events is Support the Family–Improve the Outcome and the theme for 2026 is See the Person, Not the Drug.

Alcohol and other drugs affect all members of our community, but it is families—alongside people who use drugs—who so often carry the heaviest burden. Families, regardless of background or circumstance, can find themselves deeply impacted, yet too often they are misrepresented, judged and left to face the challenges alone. The discrimination and negative perceptions surrounding drug use aren’t just harmful—they create barriers to accessing the support that families need. They isolate, shame and silence families, denying them their fundamental right to care, dignity and inclusion.

International Family Drug Support Day calls us to See the Person, Not the Drug—to look beyond labels, prejudice, and stereotypes, and to recognise families and their loved ones for who they are.

This event is about challenging those attitudes, raising the profile of families and honouring the critical—and too often invisible—work they do to keep their loved ones safe and alive long enough to make better choices. Building on last year’s momentum, we aim to reach more of the community, encourage families to seek support without fear and affirm their rightful place at the heart of Australia’s response to alcohol and other drugs.