A leading emergency doctor in Alice Springs says governments must address the root causes of why people turn to alcohol and drink in excess, if any real progress is going to be made in dealing with the social issues affecting the town.
Dr Stephen Gourley, the director of Alice Springs Hospital's emergency department, says while alcohol abuse is a significant issue, it's just one factor behind the crime crisis that has attracted national attention.
"Alcohol is a problem across Australia," he said.
"Every [emergency department] in Australia struggles with alcohol-fuelled violence and it is an issue I think we as a nation need to deal with … It's not unique to Alice.
"What we do have though, is 200 years of failed policy for Aboriginal people."
Dr Gourley's statements, which he posted to Facebook, come as Alice Springs residents await the release of Territory Regional Controller Dorelle Anderson's highly anticipated report into the crisis gripping the town.
The report, which was given to both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the NT Chief Minister Natasha Fyles this week, is thought to detail responses to and policy advice on the Alice Springs crime wave and changes to alcohol sale laws, including bans and limited-access for some Indigenous communities.
Dr Gourley said all levels of government "of every flavour" had initiated "well meaning" policies and interventions over successive decades, but none had worked.
He warned that to once again focus only on controlling the scourge of alcohol would "go nowhere".
"We need to move past the politics of alcohol and address the harsh truth of why people drink," he said.
"Race-based solutions and prohibition are not a long-term solution."
Dr Gourley said key areas that must be addressed by all levels of government in order for progress to be made included poverty, housing, education and meaningful employment.
He said it was also important for people to have hope for the future and to feel accepted and valued.
Now is the time to make real change
Dr Gourley said Alice Springs and the nation were at a turning point
"We have an opportunity. Right now," he said.
"Let's not focus on alcohol. It's there — and everywhere [but] let's look at accepting where we are as a nation and move forward together."
Dr Gourley loves the town where he lives and works and is calling for people to be a part of the solution in Alice Springs.
"If you really want to help, then be here," he said.
"Walk with us. Work with us.
"Armchair critics and a completely negative lens and narrative just adds to the trauma and the hurt over time."
