How to run a forum – Step 6

Promote the event and build your audience

The ADF in general does not recommend that young people under the age of 18 be present at forums that are better directed at adults, such as crystalline methamphetamine forums, so please make this clear on your invitation/flyer/promotional material.

We encourage you to call and email your networks in the community to help promote your event (see also the 6 steps to planning community alcohol and drug projects resource). These might include:

• local Aboriginal medical services
• local health district AOD and mental health services
• police – e.g. crime prevention officers
• local youth services
• Family Drug Support (FDS)
• local non-government AOD services
• NSW Department of Family and Community Services (FACS)
• Housing NSW
• NSW Ministry of Health
• NSW Users and AIDS Association (NUAA)
• sporting clubs
• schools
• local radio and print media (CDATs – see the ADF’s Media Distribution List – ask your SCDO if you don’t have a copy of this).

Additional tips:

• Keep an eye on your attendee numbers and ensure you have adequate seating available.
• Keep in mind as a general rule that there may be 20% no-shows and 10% walk-ins.
• Speak to the venue about accessing additional seating if required.
• Provide accessible seating and ensure you have accessible access to the stage if required by a speaker.
• If you are providing catering, remember to allow for special dietary requirements (estimate 10% vegetarian and 10% gluten-free of your total audience number).