10/10/23 A step towards a health-based approach to drug use in NSW

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation welcomes reports that the New South Wales Government is planning to introduce legislation to expand its pre-court drug diversion scheme for cannabis, to include other drugs.

Under the reported proposed legislation, there would be a ‘two strike policy’ where people in New South Wales found with small amounts of drugs for personal use, would be issued with a $400 fine or be required to access a health program, instead of facing a criminal penalty.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Spokesperson, Robert Taylor, said it’s a step towards a sensible, health-based approach to drug use.

“Whilst we would prefer fines were removed altogether, this is a move in the right direction,” Mr Taylor said.

“The criminalisation of drugs causes negative stigma and stops people who use drugs from reaching out for help and support when they need it most.

“A health-based approach to drug use benefits the whole of community by helping to reduce drug-related deaths and disease, reduce stigma and problematic drug use, and see more people reaching out for help and support.

“Diverting people to the health system also frees up police time, so they can focus on the supply and trafficking of drugs.

“For people who do have issues with their drug use, often this has more to do with the other challenges they might be facing. In these situations, our role as a community is to help them with the support they need to be healthy and well.”

Mr Taylor said that there is strong and growing support among Australians, including New South Wales residents, for a health-based approach to drug use.

“There is high support in New South Wales for a health-based approach to personal drug use, including either no action, a caution or warning, treatment or education, or a fine,” Mr Taylor explained.

Whilst there is no silver bullet to reducing and preventing drug-related harms, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation is looking forward to discussing evidence-based approaches at the NSW Drug Summit early next year.

ENDS

For media enquiries please call the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s media team on 0430 948 380 or email media@adf.org.au.