Prior to undertaking the dissemination of the SHAHRP study to Australian schools, the National Drug Research Institute (NDRI) conducted a preliminary study identifying effective dissemination processes. This study involved: 1) a systematic literature review of dissemination processes and effectiveness in addiction, public health and health promotion programs. 2) key informant interviews with the different education sectors in all of states to identify correct process for approaching each organisation. Key informant interviews with manager/teacher trainers from each State/Territory for each education sector (government, independent and catholic). The fundamental aim of this preliminary work was to identify what motivates the different groups to take on board a new program with proven effectiveness, how to go about 'marketing' it to them and what is the ideal process for adoption of a new program. This work has informed the dissemination of the SHAHRP program.