The Pacific Drug and Alcohol Research Network (PDARN) first met in 2005 in response to a lack of data describing drug and alcohol issues in Pacific Island Countries and Territories. The group has met regularly since that time bringing together ministry of health, non-government, multi-lateral and law enforcement representatives with university researchers and public health workers to gather and report current data, undertake capacity building activities, and create opportunities to collaborate on research projects and program implementation activities.

Established with the aim of developing and nurturing applied research projects, PDARN is unique in that it is the only research network in the region with a specific focus on alcohol and drug use and related issues.  The need for greater information on Pacific drug and alcohol issues has also meant that PDARN has broadened its scope beyond research to become a forum for the sharing of information on a range of drug and alcohol issues, policies and programs.

PDARN has established links with academic institutes, notably the University of the South Pacific, the Fiji School of Medicine, Massey University New Zealand, and Melbourne and Monash Universities in Australia.

PDARN is supported by the Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) and the Burnet Institute, with funding provided by the Australian Government's Expert Advisory Committee on Asia-Pacific Issues.

Aims of the Network