International expert Professor Sir Ian Gilmore delivered a thought-provoking keynote at the recent 2025 National Drug Research Institute (NDRI) symposium in Fremantle/Walyalup, offering a global perspective on alcohol policy and sparking discussion on how research can drive policy change.

Bringing together more than 100 delegates from research, policy, treatment, and law enforcement, the symposium explored emerging challenges in alcohol and other drugs (AOD) policy. It also highlighted the contributions of early career researchers and PhD candidates.

New NDRI Director Professor Paul Griffiths reviewed international developments in synthetic drug use, particularly the risks posed by highly potent synthetic opioids in Australia. Professor Bronwyn Myers-Franchi, Director of Curtin’s enAble Institute, joined the expert panel to discuss how researchers can better collaborate with communities and stakeholders to reduce AOD-related harm.

Professor Gavin Pereira, Dean of Research (Health Sciences), delivered the address, with Professor Carlo Marra, Pro Vice-Chancellor Health Sciences, and Emeritus Professors Mike Daube and David Hawks also in attendance.

Thank you to everyone involved in the success of this event. You can read more about the symposium and other NDRI events on the NDRI website.