Mt Theo Program

The Mt Theo Program is a successful petrol sniffing prevention program run by the Warlpiri community in Central Australia.

The program was established in 1994 to address an epidemic of petrol sniffing at Yuendumu. Two Warlpiri elders took groups of young sniffers 160km to Mount Theo outstation where they were removed from the sniffing environment and taught traditional culture and skills such as hunting and gathering.

The program developed into the Mt Theo / Yuendumu Substance Misuse Aboriginal Corporation and now includes education and diversion activities including Jaru Pirrjirdi. It has almost eradicated sniffing in the Warlpiri nation, becoming a model for similar community driven organisations.

Youth Program
The program provides an extensive range of activities for youth as well as after school care and night school. Access to meaningful and enjoyable activity diverts young people from destructive and antisocial behaviours.

Jaru Pirrjirdi
The Jaru Pirrjirdi (Strong Voices) Youth Development Project works with young people to address the underlying causes of substance misuse by strengthening cultural bonds and developing leadership skills among young people.

The Project includes bush trips to places of cultural significance, involvement of youth representatives in local governance and national fora, and outreach within the Warlpiri Zone. Participants are active as leaders in the Youth Program.

External link

 * Mt Theo Website