Night Coach was developed for the Australian National Council on Drugs to help people reflect on and monitor their alcohol, tobacco and other substance use. The web-based app incorporated the World Health Organisation’s ASSIST screening tool, providing personalised feedback, recommendations and self-management resources in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

The key challenge was creating a brand and digital experience that would appeal to functional drug users while remaining discreet enough for users to feel comfortable accessing and keeping the app on their phones. The platform needed to encourage honest self-assessment and behaviour change without stigma or judgment.

A peer-development model was used throughout the design process, with members of the target audience contributing to the app’s branding, interface design and functionality. Focus groups informed the development of key features, including a substance-use diary for ongoing self-monitoring and a PIN-protected login to maintain privacy and confidentiality. The app was extensively tested and refined to ensure a seamless user experience, supported by a national narrowcast marketing campaign designed to drive awareness and engagement.