The Australian drug policy timeline: 1985-2007 by jurisdiction

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019

The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline provides a list of key events, policy and legislative changes that have occurred in Australia between 1985 and 31 December 2019.

Events are listed by jurisdiction, at the federal and state/ territory level. The first table includes events at the federal level. Events in the state and territories are split into two

parts. The second table includes events from the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. Events from South Australia, Tasmania,

Victoria and Western Australia are listed in the third table. The timeline will continue to be updated bi-annually. Please email through comments or suggested inclusions.

Suggested citation: Hughes, Caitlin. (2020). The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019, Drug Policy Modelling Program, UNSW and Centre for Crime Policy and

Research, Flinders University. Last updated 15 January 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.arts.unsw.edu.au/sprc/research/drug-policy-modelling-program/drug-policy-timeline

Year

Federal

2019

Large increase in peak bodies – including the Australian Medical Association, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, the

Australasian College for Emergency Medicine and the Ambulance Union State Council - formally endorsing a pill testing trial (Jan-Feb).

QandA host a special episode on pill testing, drug law reform and drug policy. Panelists included Dr Marianne Jauncey, Dr David Caldicott, Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith,

Former AFP Police Commissioner Mick Palmer and Kerryn Redpath (Feb 18).

New report released: “Alcohol and other drug use in regional and remote Australia: consumption, harms and access to treatment” in the aim of identifying trends in alcohol and other

drug use in Regional and remote Australia. It showed that A) people living in Regional and remote areas of Australia were more likely than people living in Major cities to have consumed

alcohol at quantities that placed them at risk of harm from an alcohol-related disease or injury; B) Levels of recent drug use were similar between remoteness areas, however the type

of illicit drug used varied, with much more use of ecstasy and cocaine in cities and more use of cannabis in very remote regions; c) The burden increased with remoteness: Remote and

Very remote areas experienced 2.1 and 2.7 times, respectively, the burden of disease attributable to alcohol use, compared with Major cities in 2011 and over the past decade, the rate

of drug-induced deaths has increased at a faster rate in Regional and remote areas, up 41% since 2008, compared with a 16% increase in Major cities; D) Agencies in Remote and very

remote areas had the highest rate of clients who sought treatment; and E) Clients who sought treatment in Regional and remote areas were more likely than clients in Major cities to

travel 1 hour or longer to treatment services over the same period (Mar).

Commonwealth Department of Health announced $20 million to support GPS and other allied health professionals in regional and remote Australia to access professional development

and specialist skills in addiction medicine (Mar).

Scott Morrison elected as Prime Minister: with a minority Liberal/National Coalition Government (May).

New data released: “Trends in substance use among Australian secondary school students 1996–2017.” This showed that use of alcohol among secondary students in Australia has

declined since the 2000s, most markedly among those aged 12 to 15, and that in general use of illicit drugs has also declined. The main exception is cannabis and ecstasy (May).

New research by Hughes et al released: “Criminal justice responses relating to personal use and possession of illicit drugs: The reach of Australian drug diversion programs and barriers

and facilitators to expansion.” This found Australian police divert 55% offenders with a principal offence of use/possession away from courts, and that the biggest determinant of access

to diversion is the state in which someone lives – as only 32% offenders in WA were diverted compared to 98% in SA. It outlined unanimous support for expanding diversion in Australia

and 10 steps to do this, including a) ensuring all jurisdictions (particularly NSW & Qld) provide diversion for all illicit drugs, 2) switching from a discretionary to legislative models, such as

the South Australian Police Drug Diversion Initiative, or a hybrid legislative & 3) considering newer models of therapeutic diversion delivery e.g. online versus face to face (Jun).

The ACIC received an extra $4.8 billion to extend wastewater analysis for 4 years in Australia (until June 2023) (Jun).

New report published: National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program Report 7. This compared wastewater analysis results from Australia for 2018 against data from 25 other countries

across Europe, USA, Canada and South Africa. This showed that Australia ranked second highest in terms of combined stimulant use after the USA taking into account use of

amphetamines, methamphetamines, cocaine and MDMA. The next highest countries were the Netherlands, Iceland and Canada (at 3

, 4

and 5

respectively). Australia was also second

for methylamphetamine (behind USA) and MDMA (behind Netherlands) specifically, but reported relatively low cocaine consumption (ranked at 17th) (Jun).

New report published: “Illicit Drug Data Report 2017-18.” This showed that in 2017–18, there were 112,827 drug seizures and 30.6 tonnes of illicit drugs seized nationally. The weight of

illicit drugs seized nationally has increased 130.0 per cent over the last decade, from 13.3 tonnes in 2008–09 to a record 30.6 tonnes in 2017–18. ATS remained the second most seized

illicit drugs (11,205kg). There were 148,373 recorded illicit drug offences in 2017-18 (154,650 in 2016-17) of which 90.3% = consumer and 9.7% = provider arrests. The number of clan

labs continued to decrease from 463 in 2016-17 to 432 in 2017-18. Most were for meth/amphetamine but 22 laboratories were detected in 2017–18 producing GHB/GBL and 20

laboratories detected producing MDMA the highest number reported in the last decade (Jul).

The Penington Institute released a new report: “Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2019.” This analysed overdose deaths from 2001 until 2017. It showed: in 2017 there were 1,612

unintentional drug-induced deaths in Australia = > four unintentional drug-induced deaths per day, or one death every 5.4 hours; the no. of unintentional drug-induced deaths has

increased significantly over the past 15 years, from 981 in 2001 to 1,612 in 2017 (a 64.3% increase) – outstripping both the rate of population growth (27.8%) and number of deaths

due to the road-toll (1,246 in 2017); the rate of unintentional drug-induced deaths continues to increase in rural and regional Australia, with a 24% between 2011 to 2017 vs a 5%

increase in capital cities; and opioids were the drug group most commonly identified in unintentional drug-induced deaths in 2017 (involved in 904 deaths, of which 358 = heroin and 344

= oxycodone / morphine / codeine), followed by benzodiazepines (involved in 583 deaths). But, analysis of trends showed a significant rise in deaths involving two main drug types: a)

heroin and b) stimulants (including methamphetamine) (Aug).

An Audit of the Commonwealth Department of Health achievements under the National Ice Action Strategy showed limited progress: “While Australian Government funding to the alcohol

and other drug sector has increased and actions have progressed, there is no monitoring to assess whether progress is being made toward the Strategy’s goal of reducing the prevalence

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

of ice use and resulting harms across the Australian community. This reflects that the department does not have an evaluation approach in place for the National Ice Action Strategy and

is not monitoring any progress towards the goals and objective” (Sep).

Social Services Legislation Amendment (Drug Testing Trial) Bill 2019 introduced – the third iteration of the welfare drug testing provisions (11 Sep). Bill passed the house of

representatives but not the senate (17 Oct).

New NDARC report released: “Australian Drug Trends 2019: Key Findings from the Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) Interviews.” This found use of most illicit drugs was stable. 55%

reported using heroin in 2019 compared to 54% in 2018 and 78% reported use of methamphetamine compared to 77% in 2018. The median price of heroin nationally was $350 for one

gram, significantly higher than the median price in 2018 ($280). In contrast, the median price of crystal methamphetamine recorded in 2019 was the lowest recorded since 2003 ($260)

and a significant decrease from $300 in 2018, and a further decrease from 2014 - $500 (Oct).

New NDARC report released: “Australian Drug Trends 2019: Key Findings from the Ecstasy and Related Drug Reporting System (EDRS) Interviews.” This showed recent use of ecstasy

pills continued to fall (67% vs 75% in 2018) while recent use of ecstasy caps rose (77% in 2019 versus 72% in 2018). There was a significant increase in median days of ecstasy cap use

from 6 days in 2018 to 8 days in 2019 (13% reported weekly use compared to 8% in 2018) and the median cost of an ecstasy capsule decreased from $25 in 2018 to $20 in 2019-the

lowest median reporting price since reporting began in 2008. Cocaine use increased from 2017 to 2018 to 2019 (48% to 59% to 67%), with the largest per cent of participants reporting

recent use since monitoring began. (This was particularly in NSW, Vic and SA). Recent use of methamphetamine was stable in the last 3 years (33%) with 18% consuming crystal (Oct).

A new nasal spray form of naloxone – a life-saving antidote medicine used to treat a narcotic overdose in an emergency situation – was added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme

(PBS). Until this form naloxone was only available in injectable forms, but the PBS listing of the nasal spray was intended to provide easier administration of this overdose antidote for

people suffering an overdose and first responders, and to thus help save lives. The new format would cost <$6.50 per script versus >$48 without subsidy (1 Nov).

Home Affairs release new Illicit Drug Action Plan with principal focus on ice. Notes strong demand, along with high domestic prices, provides a lucrative market for criminal groups. Also

notes the devastating impacts across communities, particularly in regional, rural and remote areas and the significant challenge in tackling the methylamphetamine market due to its

diverse supply. Notes some goals from 2015 have been achieved e.g. national dob in a dealer campaign, and others remain ongoing including consistent national precursor regulations

and disrupting production and supply to rural and regional communities. Key strategies going forward: significantly expanding ABF saturation of mail, reviewing Cth laws, expanding gang

squads, and more strategic AFP liaison in Sth East Asia (Nov 2019).

An update to the National Quality Framework for Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Services (National Quality Framework) was released. This now includes strengthened clinical

governance requirements and a list of accreditation standards specialist treatment service providers must meet (Nov).

National Framework for Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug Treatment 2019‐2029 (The Framework) released. The Framework enables a shared strategic vision of the drug and alcohol

treatment system and facilitates coordinated planning to provide the context for national and state and territory processes, programs and policies. The framework includes: Principles for

effective treatment; Principles for effective treatment planning, purchasing and resourcing; and Principles for monitoring, evaluation and research. Re effective treatment this notes that

all treatment in Australia should be a) person-centred, b) evidence-informed, c) equitable and accessible, d) non-judgmental, e) culturally responsive and f) holistic and coordinated. For

example, every Australian should have an equal opportunity and right to seek and receive alcohol or other drug treatment at a time, location, cost, and treatment type that suits their

needs and Australian alcohol and other drug treatment services should work closely with general health, mental health, social welfare and other relevant services to provide a holistic

approach to treatment to address any co-occurring mental health, physical or social needs. Re effective treatment planning, purchasing and resourcing this notes that responsibility for

planning and coordinating the availability and accessibility of alcohol and other drug treatment resides with both federal and state/territory governments and that siloed planning,

purchasing and resourcing can result in treatment gaps and planning duplication. Key principles are thus to: a) engage all funders of AOD treatment, as well as funders and planners of

other systems of care that impact on AOD treatment; b) engage all other stakeholders, including service providers, clients of treatment and their significant others, peak bodies, and

community representatives; c) identify gaps, priority groups, and areas of emerging need, within the jurisdictional and regional context; d) take into account medium-term and long-term

horizon; and e) take into account the capability and capacity of the workforces and the need for other services (health, social welfare, etc.) (Dec).

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Take Home Naloxone pilot commenced in NSW, SA and WA. This aimed to improve access and uptake of naloxone, by providing it for free and without a

prescription, from a wide variety of locations including community and hospital-based pharmacies, alcohol and other drug treatment centres, needle and syringe programs, custodial

release programs, first responders (police) and GP clinics. Plot commenced 1 December 2019 and will run through to 28 February 2021, with a final report expected in mid-2021 (Dec).

New research released: “Trends in drug-induced deaths in Australia, 1997-2018”. This examined deaths relating to illicit drugs specifically – and excluded any related to alcohol or

tobacco. The analysis showed there were 1,740 drug-induced deaths among Australians in 2018. The rate of deaths per 100,000 population has been increasing since 2006 but remains

lower than the peak in 1999. Opioids were the main drug cited in drug-induced deaths (1,129 deaths in 2018) (Dec).

New research released: “Trends in drug-related hospitalisations in Australia, 1999-2018.” This showed there were 60,627 drug-related hospital separations among Australians in 2017-

18, equivalent to 0.5% of all hospital separations in Australia and that this was most common amongst those aged 20-29. In 2017-18 the greater proportion of drug-related hospital

separations was attributable to amphetamines and other stimulants (57 hospitalisations per 100,000 people, 23% of drug-related hospitalisations), compared to 14% opioids. The rate of

amphetamine-related hospitalization has further increased significantly since 2009 - 57 versus 13 separations per 100,000 people and 43% were for psychosis (Dec).

2018

New research released by Gabrielle Todd et al “Adults with a history of illicit amphetamine use exhibit abnormal substantia nigra morphology and parkinsonism.” This showed a) that illicit

use of amphetamines in Australian adults was associated with abnormal substantia nigra morphology and subtle clinical signs of parkinsonism, b) that such changes were not observed in

other control groups (e.g. groups that only used cannabis or ecstasy) and c) that these abnormalities were observed in adults with an average age of 30 years who had normal memory

and cognition, used methamphetamine as little as five or more times, and been abstinent from methamphetamine for an average of two years. The results support epidemiological

findings linking use of methamphetamine with increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease later in life (Jan).

The Hon. Dan Tehan MP, Minister for Social Services, re-introduced a second iteration of a bill on welfare drug testing – Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill

2018. The bill proposed to establish a mandatory drug testing trial of 5000 recipients of Newstart Allowance and Youth Allowance (Other) in three specified locations - Canterbury-

Bankstown, New South Wales; Logan, Queensland and Mandurah, Western Australia (28 Feb).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

New research released: “The methamphetamine market: Police detainee perspectives.” This research, based on interviews with 4,400 police detainees in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and

Sydney found that in 2015-16 58% of police detainees reported they used methamphetamine in the last 12 months (compared to 29% in 2010) and that 42% reported being dependent

on the drug. Recent methamphetamine users reported consuming 14 days out of the last 30 days, using an average of 3 times a day and a quantity of 0.4 grams i.e. 1.2g per day (Apr).

Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs held a second inquiry into Social Services Legislation Amendment (Drug Testing Trial) Bill 2018. This led to two public hearings in Bass

Hill NSW and Logan QLD and receipt of 29 public submissions (Mar-May).

Bill by Senator David Leyonhjelm, Liberal Democratic Party, proposed to remove Commonwealth barriers to the legalisation and taxation of cannabis, with no restrictions on the

production or advertising of cannabis (May).

Australian Greens proposed to legalise cannabis for adult use in a tightly regulated market. Key proposals include a) establishment of an Australian Cannabis Agency that would be act as

a single wholesaler, and issue all licenses for production and sale, b) retail sales outlets with strict age limits, requirements for plain packaging and bans on all advertising and c) options

for cultivation for personal use (May).

The Ministerial Drug and Alcohol Forum endorsed the National Quality Framework (NQF) for Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Services. Ministers noted the implementation of the NQF

will set a nationally consistent quality benchmark which consumers can expect from drug and alcohol treatment providers, both government and non-government funded. Arrangements

for the NQF include:

• Government funded treatment service providers will be required to comply with the NQF, through contractual and/or jurisdictional arrangements.

• Providers not receiving government funding will be required to meet the NQF through regulatory or other processes as determined by jurisdictions as appropriate (Jun).

Ministerial Drug and Alcohol Forum established an Opioid Issues Working Group, with the access and availability of Naloxone in Australia the first issue to be examined (Jun).

New national approval process for medical cannabis unveiled: replacing dual approval process via states and Commonwealth, with singe nationally consistent online access pathway via

TGA (Jul).

The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs (NCCRED) was established to support clinical research into new treatment options, training of health professionals and

evaluating treatment effectiveness for people using methamphetamine or other emerging drugs of concern. This is a consortium led by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre,

with the National Drug Research Institute, the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction and St Vincent’s Health Australia and directed by Dr Nadine Ezard (Sep).

The Cth Department of Health provided funding to expand the Victorian Ambulance Project to establish and maintain a National Surveillance System for Alcohol and other Drug Misuse

and Overdose.

2017

The Cracks in the Ice website was launched, to provide publicly accessible, factual and evidence-based information for community groups, local councils, concerned parents and friends,

teachers, students and frontline service providers relating to ice. A smartphone app was developed in Jan 2018 (Apr).

First round of 40 Local Drug Action Teams (LDAT) - one key recommendation of the National Ice Taskforce - announced across Australia. The LDATs are supported by the Australian Drug

Foundation and seek to develop locally focused and responsive action plans to reduce the impact of drugs, with a particular focus on the drug ice. They involve local councils, service

providers, police, sporting groups, and NGOs and use a range of strategies such as local health promotion, community-led education and mentoring, early intervention and prevention

programs. 220 LDAT were promised over 3 years (Mar).

First national wastewater report released: covering 51 sites (12 in Qld, 10 in NSW, 8 SA and 7 Vic) and 54% of the Australian population. Confirmed methylamphetamine had the highest

consumed illicit drug tested across all regions in Australia (Cannabis was not included in testing). Also showed high levels at several regional sites including in Qld, Vic and Tas (Mar).

National cost-effectiveness evaluation “Australian police diversion for cannabis offences: Assessing program outcomes and cost-effectiveness” found that cannabis expiation and cannabis

caution were six to 15 times cheaper than provision of a traditional criminal justice response (charge) for cannabis use/possess offences, without leading to increased drug use or

subsequent offending (Jun).

New bill debated: Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill 2017. Schedule 12 of this bill proposed to introduce a mandatory drug testing trial for 5000 new recipients

of Newstart Allowance and Youth Allowance and that any trial participants who test positive to a specified illicit drug (methamphetamine, cannabis, opioids) would be subject to income

management for a period of 24 months and may be required to submit to drug treatment. The bill was referred the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee (the committee) for

inquiry and report by 4 September 2017 (22 Jun).

The National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline became operational and is one of the resources promoted through the National Drugs Campaign, providing direct access to information,

counselling support and services (Jul).

Penington Institute released a new report: “Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2016.” This analysed overdose deaths from 2004 until 2014 and showed:

• Deaths due to accidental overdose grew substantially from 705 to 1,137 between 2004 and 2014: a 61% increase.

• Contrary to stereotypes Australians aged 40-49 were the most likely to die of a drug overdose.

• Large increases in overdose deaths in rural and regional were driving the overall increase.

• WA was the worst state for overdose deaths per capita with 5.8 per 100,000 in 2014 followed by NSW with 5.1 per 100,000 (Jul).

National Drug Strategy 2017-2026 released: first decade long drug strategy. The central objective remained harm minimisation: to build safe, healthy and resilient Australian

communities through preventing and minimising alcohol, tobacco and other drug-related health, social, cultural and economic harms among individuals, families and communities, with

the strategy noting “this consistent approach to the national drug policy framework has earned high international regard for its progressive, balanced and comprehensive approach and

has made considerable achievements.” Key priority actions included: a) enhancing access to evidence-informed, effective and affordable treatment services and support; b) developing

new data collections and sharing data and research that supports evidence-informed approaches and early warning of emerging priorities; c) increasing participatory processes that

facilitate collaboration between government, the community and non-government sector; and d) enhancing systems to facilitate greater diversion into health interventions from the

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

criminal justice system, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people and other at-risk populations who may be experiencing disproportionate harm (Sep).

The Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee (the committee) inquiry into the Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill 2017 received 63 submissions and

held two public hearings in Sydney and Melbourne. Serious concerns were raised by multiple groups including: the Australian Council of Social Service; National Employment Services

Association; Drug Policy Modelling Program; UnitingCare; Catholic Social Services Australia and Catholic Health Australia; The Kirby Institute; Cohealth; National Drug Research Institute;

Australian Drug Law Reform Initiative; Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations; Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League; Western Australian Network of Alcohol and other

Drug Agencies; and the Public Health Association Agency. Key issues raised were: a) a lack of evidence to support the use of drug testing; b) the cost, availability and reliability of drug

testing; c) the lack of availability of treatment services to meet potential increased demand; d) the potential to increase stigma, poverty and crime in the trial regions and e) lack of

rigorous research methodology for the trial. Of note, critics stated that there is no evidence that drug testing will achieve the desired outcome. Submissions referred to drug testing of

welfare recipients introduced in the USA and New Zealand where only small numbers of those tested returned positive test results. For example, one trial in New Zealand of 8001

participants had only 22 positive test results: 0.27% of participants. Others noted proposed drug testing would capture both recreational and drug dependent people, which would

unnecessarily increase demand on drug treatment services and that existing drug treatment services were already significantly under-resourced (meeting only 50% of demand). In

response, on Aug 30 the Government announced a $10 million fund would be available to provide additional assistance to drug treatment services in the three drug testing sites (Sep).

The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights considered the Social Services Legislation Amendment (Welfare Reform) Bill 2017 and raised concerns that Schedule 12 (welfare

drug testing provisions) interfered with and limited the rights to privacy, bodily integrity, social security and equality and non-discrimination. For example, they stated “drug testing is an

invasive procedure and may violate a person's legitimate expectation of privacy. Further, the measure requires the divulging of private medical information to a firm contracted to

conduct the drug testing. A person may need to provide evidence of their prescriptions and/or medical history to the company to avoid false positives that, for example, detect prescribed

opioids. Finally, the use of a card in purchasing essential goods after a person's benefit is quarantined will disclose that a person receives quarantined social security payments.” They

further noted that the limits on the right to privacy did not appear justified: “The initial analysis identified that, first, the measure appears to be overly broad. The randomised drug test is

not reliant on any reasonable suspicion that a person has a drug abuse problem and that if they test positive once, even if it was the first time they had used an illicit drug or it was a

false positive, their payments are quarantined for two years, during which period they must use a cashless welfare card” and that less rights restrictive ways could be undertaken to

achieve the central objective such as by encouraging (voluntary) treatment and investing in additional treatment and referral services(Oct).

New NDARC research released “Drugs and the Internet”. This monitored trends over time in the availability and type of substances sold via the internet on the darknet looking specifically

at the period January 2017 until June 2017. Fourteen marketplaces were actively monitored during the time period, but AlphaBay and Hansa were shut down by a joint international law

enforcement operation in July 2017. Alphabay (up until closure) and Dream Market continued to be the largest marketplaces at the end of the monitoring period, recording the largest

number of unique vendors during this time. Hansa (up until closure) was the third largest marketplace monitored during this period. Substantial downtime was recorded across the

remaining marketplaces (including Dream Market) following the law enforcement seizures. By December 2019 11 of the 14 marketplaces monitored had closed, either as a result of

suspected exit scams, security breaches, or law enforcement seizures – an unprecedented number of market closures in such a short time (Dec).

The Senate, on the motion of the government, agreed to remove Schedule 12 from the Welfare Reform Bill (trial of mandatory drug testing) (Dec 7).

2016

The Office of Drug Control (ODC) established in the Commonwealth Department of Health to regulate and provide advice on the import, export and manufacture of controlled drugs as

well as the domestic cultivation of medicinal cannabis. Key roles: to administer the Narcotic Drugs Act 1967 and parts of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 and the

Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations 1958 that relate to drugs (Feb 15).

New research released: “Drug Use Monitoring in Australia: An expansion into the Pilbara.” This sought to supplement traditional DUMA analysis of police detainees in metropolitan areas

with analysis in regional areas – here Pilbara. 51 police detainees in South Hedland were interviewed and compared with a sample of 209 Perth detainees. The findings indicated that

illicit drug use was significantly lower among those interviewed in the regional setting, but that alcohol use was higher and many asserted alcohol contributed to their current detention

(Feb).

The Federal Parliament of Australia passed landmark legislation, Narcotic Drugs Amendment Act 2016, to allow the controlled cultivation of cannabis in Australia for medicinal and related

scientific purposes via a national licensing scheme. The act come into effect on 30 Oct 2016, with a detailed regulatory framework enabling applications for licenses and permits for the

cultivation, production and manufacture of medicinal cannabis products. Key rules included that first set of cultivation or manufacture licenses would be issued for one year only and that

licensees must be judged as ‘fit and proper person’ including having previous business experience, no convictions for a serious offence in the last 5 years against Cth/State/Territory law

and being a person of good repute (Feb 24).

National Dob in a Dealer campaign launched, a campaign with Crime Stoppers that asks local communities to report drug dealers and drug-related activity and “stop the manufacture,

supply and dealing of drugs in Australia”. This ran from Feb 2016 until March 2017 and was further extended in 2018.

New research by Degenhardt et al released: “Estimating the number of regular and dependent methamphetamine users in Australia, 2002-2014”. This estimated that in 2012-13 there

were a total of 268 000 regular methamphetamine users and 160 000 dependent users aged 15–54 years in Australia and that this number had increased substantially over the last 12

years (Mar).

New research by Ritter and Stoove released: “Alcohol and other drug treatment policy in Australia” This concluded that Australia needs to double its investment in alcohol and drug

resources to meet unmet treatment needs (Mar).

TGA rescheduling of naloxone commenced enabling purchase of naloxone over-the-counter in pharmacies (S3) (Feb 1).

New commentary by Lenton et al (Australia reschedules naloxone for opioid overdose) highlighted new challenges for full and effective implementation of naloxone over the counter

(OTC) in Australia: including the cost of obtaining naloxone OTC. For example, they noted that under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, five minijets of naloxone cost A$37.70, or

A$6.10 on concession, which could be a significant barrier to many consumers especially for opioid users who are often financially disadvantaged (Mar).

Parliamentary Drug Summit held in Canberra, co-hosted by Senator Richard Di Natale (Greens), Sharman Stone MP (LNP) and Melissa Parke MP (ALP). Summit brought together

International and Australian representatives with expertise in health, NGO, justice, personal addiction and academia to share experiences and recommendations around harm

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

minimisation and drug law reform. Led to call for Australia to put health and community safety first in illicit drug policy; to remove criminal sanctions for personal drug use; to expand

investment in drug treatment and to pursue an open debate on more effective policies (Mar 2).

Australian country statement at the United Nations 59

Commission on Narcotic Drugs noted that “Australia opposes the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, including in

relation to drug-related crimes” and that Australia would “continue to press for a global ban on the death penalty and actively engage in promoting a public health approach to illicit drug

use which considers a proportional response to minor or non-violent drug related crimes” (Mar).

Australian country statement at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGASS) reiterated that “Australia will continue to press for a global ban on the death penalty in all circumstances,

including in relation to drug-related crimes” (Apr).

Stereosonic music festival organisers announced it was cancelling its 2016 trip to Australia following two fatal overdoses at their events in Sydney and Adelaide in late 2015 (Apr).

DPMP research released by Chalmers et al: “The stigmatisation of 'ice' and underreporting of methamphetamine use in general population surveys.” Found stigmatisation of drug use

(methamphetamine in particular) may lead to under-reporting of use in the national drug strategy household survey (Jun).

A national pilot wastewater analysis program announced, funded through $3.6 million from Proceeds of Crime. The program will be run by the Australian Crime Commission and monitor

levels of methylamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine (Jun).

Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission was established following the merge of the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) and CrimTrac (Jul 1).

Data from the Kirby Institute revealed record numbers of Australians treated for Hepatitis C since listing of new generation treatments on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Schemes. For

example, 22,470 Australians had commenced Hepatitis C treatment since PBS listing in May 2015, compared to 2,000-3,000 people treated annually prior to the listing (Jul).

New research by Hughes et al released: “Trafficking in multiple commodities: Exposing Australia’s poly-drug and poly-criminal networks.” This provided the first analysis of the scale,

trends and harms of Australian poly-drug traffickers (traffickers that trade in multiple illicit drugs), showing that compared to traffickers that trade in one drug (mono-drug traffickers),

poly-drug traffickers import larger quantities of drugs, are more involved in other forms of organized crime and are more resilient to police (Aug).

Illicit Drug Data Report 2014-15 released. This showed that the number of border detections increased for most drug types. Of note the number and weight of heroin, cocaine and MDMA

detections at the Australian border increased. The report also included for the first time results from wastewater analysis. This indicated that methylamphetamine use in the community

had increased linearly from 2009 to 2015, and that levels of use were much higher than suggested by estimates from the NDSHS (Aug).

The Senate passed a motion led by Greens Leader Richard Di Natale calling on the Federal Government to address the rising rates of harm associated with drug use by implementing and

appropriately resourcing evidence-based harm reduction policies, including:(i) greater access to needle and syringe programs across the country with an urgent roll-out of trials inside

prisons, (iii) promoting awareness of the life-saving opioid reversal drug Naloxone, and highlighting its availability over the counter in pharmacies, and(iv) working with state and

territory governments to cease the use of drug sniffer dogs at festivals and urgently introduce trials of pill testing for the upcoming festivals season. The motion passed the Senate

without objection from Labor or Liberal Senators (Aug).

2016 Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS) reported a resurgence in the Australian ecstasy market as well as a shift towards higher purity crystal forms of the drug.

Regular stimulant users reported increased availability and purity of crystal and non-crystal forms of ecstasy in Australia. They also reported a shift in forms of use with increased use of

crystal and capsules. Of note, prevalence of crystal ecstasy increased from 39% in 2013 to 57% in 2016 (Sep).

New research released by Roche and McEntee: “Ice and the outback: Patterns and prevalence of methamphetamine use in rural Australia” This showed that those living in rural locations

have significantly higher levels of recent use of methamphetamine in general and crystal methamphetamine in particular and that this is concerning given the pre-existing health and

social vulnerabilities of those living in rural Australia. The article notes the need for prevention efforts targeting rural workplaces and primary care settings. The authors also noted drug

networks may be spreading from major cities to smaller communities, and that this may reflect deliberate targeting of rural communities by illegal distribution networks (Dec).

The Greens Party unveiled a new drugs policy that ended opposition to legalisation of illicit drugs. The new drugs policy included three principles: 1) the current punitive approach to drug

use has failed to stop illicit drugs use; 2) the legal framework for drugs and other substances used for non-medical purposes should be informed by evidence of the extent and nature of

the harm likely to be caused; and 3) education is a vital tool in reducing both harm from and demand for drugs, including legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco. The policy also calls for

a new independent national regulatory authority to assess and reduce the harm of illicit drugs (Dec).

2015

New research by Degenhardt et al. “Experience of adjunctive cannabis use for chronic non-cancer pain” found 13% of their sample of 1500 chronic pain patients were using cannabis in

addition to prescribed opioids and that many of those reported they got more pain relief from cannabis than conventional medicines (Jan).

Indonesian President Joko Widodo denied the final appeal for Bali Nine offenders, Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, to avoid the death penalty (Jan).

ANZ Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation met to consider ANZ Food Standards approval A1039 for the use of low THC hemp products in food. The application was rejected on the basis

of ongoing law enforcement concern about the impact on drug driving enforcement and the use of the cannabis leaf design normalizing and trivializing the use of cannabis (Jan).

Silkroad website founder Ross Ulbricht found guilty on seven counts including drug trafficking and money laundering (Feb).

The Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance released the first interactive drug education game for teenagers: “Pure Rush.” The program aims to inform

adolescents about the potential harms of cannabis, methamphetamine, hallucinogens and pills through a game format (Feb).

Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee commenced an Inquiry into the Regulator of Medicinal Cannabis Bill 2014 with a call for public submissions (Feb).

The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Psychoactive Substances and Other Measures) Bill 2014 was adopted. The bill amends the Criminal Code Act 1995 (the Code) to ban

the importation of all substances that have a psychoactive effect that are not otherwise regulated or banned. It was intended to fill the regulatory gap before new psychoactive

substances are controlled under other parts of the Criminal Code or the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations. The maximum penalty for an offence will be imprisonment for five

years, 300 penalty units (currently equivalent to $51,000) or both. The measures will enter into force when it is proclaimed or six months after Royal Assent (Feb 23).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Federal Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement initiated an inquiry into crystal methamphetamine (ice). Terms of reference included to examine 1) the role of

Commonwealth law enforcement agencies in responding to the importation, manufacture, distribution and use of methamphetamine and its chemical precursors; 2) the adequacy of

Commonwealth law enforcement resources; 3) the involvement of organised crime in methamphetamine related criminal activities; and 4) the nature, prevalence and culture of

methamphetamine use in Australia (Mar).

National Ice Taskforce launched by Prime Minister Tony Abbott. The taskforce was led by Ken Lay APM, former Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, and tasked with establishing a

National Ice Action Strategy to tackle ice (crystal methamphetamine). The taskforce called for public submissions until 20 May 2015 (Apr).

Bali Nine offenders, Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, were executed in Indonesia (Apr).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2013-14 released. Noted that the number of illicit drug seizures and arrests were the highest on record. Of particular concern the

number and weight of ATS end-product (excluding MDMA) detections at the Australian border were the highest and second highest on record and the number of national ATS seizures

and arrests were the highest on record. That said, trends in the number of ATS clan lab detections had decreased for the second year (May).

Law Crime and Community Safety Council (LCCSC – the peak ministerial law enforcement body in Australia) agreed to work towards more nationally consistent controls over precursor

chemicals and equipment and that they would arrange public consultation on a range of possible options (May).

A range of new hepatitis C treatments were added to the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS), including Viekira Pak® with a cure rate of more than 90%. Treatments became available

May 1 2016 (Mar).

New research by Ritter et al, released: “Health expenditure on alcohol and other drug treatment in Australia (2012/2013).” This found that alcohol and other drug treatment spending in

Australia amounted to $1.2 billion in 2012/2013: just under one per cent of health care spending in Australia. States/territories accounted for 51% of all expenditure (Aug).

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced its decision to place “naloxone when used for the treatment of opioid overdose” on Schedule 3, commencing 1 Feb 2016, thereby

allowing over-the-counter (OTC) purchase. This made Australia the second country, after Italy (in 1995), to have naloxone formally available OTC. Key reasons for the decision were: 1)

that naloxone is a well-tolerated life-saving medicine with minimal side effects; 2) international experience and the outcomes of a trial conducted in the Australian Capital Territory

support the view that easier availability of naloxone is likely to decrease the proportion of opioid overdoses which result in death in Australia; and 3) that there are few inherent risks with

use of naloxone (Nov 4).

Final Report of the National Ice Taskforce, chaired by Ken Lay, released following face-to-face consultations across the country and over 1,300 written submissions. Report concluded that

ice use was causing significant harms across Australia, but that in spite of the best efforts of Australian law enforcement that the ice market remained high and very resilient to law

enforcement (due to the capacity to both import and domestically manufacture supplies). The taskforce thus concluded that ice is “not something we can simply arrest our way out of”

and recommended that governments focus action on reducing the demand for ice and reducing the harm it causes: via expanded prevention and treatment responses. Made 38

recommendations including; to increase investment in alcohol and other drug specialist treatment services; develop a comprehensive, evidence-based two-year prevention

communication plan focusing on ice; review diversionary programmes to determine best practice approaches, and consider options for improving and expanding existing arrangements;

prioritise building a national cooperative scheme on unexplained wealth; piloting a Swift and Certain Sanctions programme for ice offenders on probation, drawing on lessons learned

from US HOPE models; introduce a simplified governance model to support greater cohesion and coordination of law enforcement, health, education and other responses to drug misuse

in Australia; to establish a national wastewater analysis capability; and to establish an illicit drug monitoring clearinghouse for national data (Dec).

Commonwealth government issued a response to the National Ice Taskforce. Included $300m in new funds across five areas: support for families and communities; targeted prevention;

investment in treatment and workforce; focused law enforcement; and better evidence and research. Specific responses included: $241.5 million for the delivery of further treatment

services; $24.9 million to help families and communities, including via up to 220 new Community Drug Action Teams; and $18.8 million to enhance our evidence base, deliver new

guidelines and improve the quality of data and research on ice and other illicit drugs (Dec 5).

National Ice Action Strategy released: with objective to prevent people from using ice in the first place, help those who are using to stop, and to reduce the harms the drug is causing to

users and the community. Strategy had five key areas: support for families and communities; targeted prevention; investment in treatment and workforce; focused law enforcement;

and better evidence and research. Also noted that a new Ministerial Drug and Alcohol Forum would be developed in 2016 to oversee the National Ice Strategy and National Drug

Strategy: consisting of health and justice Ministers with responsibility for alcohol and drug policy who would report directly to COAG (Dec 11).

A one stop portal for evidence-based drug prevention resources and information – Positive Choices – was launched. The site was developed at the National Drug and Alcohol Research

Centre in collaboration with the National Drug Research Institute to provide a central access point for school communities: teachers, students and parents. It includes drug education

resources, fact sheets, webinars and games (Dec).

A change to funding arrangements for the national community response to Blood Borne Viruses (BBV) and Sexually Transmissible Infections (STI) led to threat of closure of AIVL, the

Australian agency representing people who use drugs. But closure was averted following large community response including a #SaveAIVL Campaign and letters to MPs (Dec).

2014

Joint Task Force (Task Force Eligio), that was established to focus on high-threat money laundering, seized $550 million in drugs, $30 million worth of assets, $26 million in cash and

arrested 105 people. The taskforce was led by the Australian Crime Commission and involved the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Transaction and Reporting Centre

(AUSTRAC), in partnership with State and Territory police, Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, Commonwealth regulatory and law enforcement partners and international

agencies including the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (Jan).

2014 Government Services Report showed perceptions of illegal drugs as a problem in Australia decreased from 45% to 37% (2011-12 to 2012-13) (Feb).

New DPMP research released: “Australian threshold quantities for drug trafficking.” Provided the first evaluation of threshold designs throughout Australian states. Showed a number of

problems in threshold designs, including that users of drugs, particularly MDMA, consume or purchase for their personal use alone more than the current threshold quantity that triggers

a charge of “deemed supply” and sanction of up to 15 years prison. Recommended increasing a number of quantities (Mar).

New NDARC research showed growth in number of Australian retailers on the ‘dark web’ even after the closure of Silk Road 1.0 in Oct 2013 and a shift in nature of demand: reduction in

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

demand for new psychoactive substances (NPS) and increase in demand for traditional illicit substances (Mar).

Minister for Justice Michael Keenan announced that the Government will amend regulations to add four NBOMe substances, also known as “synthetic LSD”, to the Criminal Code. This will

increase the penalties for importation of these products from a fine to between two years prison and life imprisonment (Mar).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2012-13 released. The report highlighted a number of records in 2012-13 including that the number of national illicit drug arrests

and seizures had increased to the highest on record and the weight of seizures to the second highest on recent. Of particular note were further increases in the number and weight of

ATS (excluding MDMA) (Apr).

The Australian Crime Commission warned that crystal methamphetamine was emerging in Australia as a ‘pandemic’ (Apr).

New guidelines issued: National Guidelines for Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence (Apr).

New DPMP research released by Alison Ritter et al, “Review working paper 7: Australian alcohol and other drug treatment spending.” This provided the first estimate of total spending on

alcohol and other drug treatment in Australia: approximately $1.3 billion per annum. It also showed that the largest contributor to spending were the states/territories (49%), compared

to 31% from the Commonwealth (Apr).

ANCD statement issued: “Funding principles for non-government organisations providing alcohol and other drug treatment.” Key principles included 1) recognise the important role of

AOD NGOs and the benefits they bring to the wider AOD sector; 2) Recognise that NGOs provide more resources to service provision than governments fund; 3) The basis for

government decisions surrounding funding models for the AOD sector and funding decisions must be transparent; and 4) Levels of funding provided to AOD NGOs must be adequate to

enable provision of quality services that meet demand, and all the costs associated with its delivery (Apr).

The Prime Minister Tony Abbott stated on Radio 3AW that the war on drugs is “not a war we will ever finally win” (Apr).

ANCD position paper “Mandatory Treatment” opposed mandatory drug treatment except under exceptional circumstances (Apr).

Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and other leaders of customs administrations from the Asia-Pacific, including Hong Kong and China, endorsed a new Asia-Pacific Anti-

Drug Strategy, to provide for additional information and personnel exchanges, and a framework for regional and trans-national joint anti-drugs operations across the region (May).

NIDAC released report “Alcohol and other drug treatment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.” This provided information on interventions that were evidence-based and

directly related to addressing AOD use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (Jun).

New framework for a national response to New Psychoactive Substances in Australia released. The framework was developed by the Inter-Governmental Committee on Drugs (IGCD)

with input from health, law enforcement and non-government experts. Key inclusions in the framework included: 1) the need for consistency in terminology, and henceforth the use of

the term “new psychoactive substances” in all official correspondence and messaging; 2) the need to establish a solid evidence base, such as through improved monitoring of NPS trends,

comprehensive harms assessments (health and social) of NPS and sharing of information across states/territories; and 3) consideration of optimal legal responses (Jul).

New strategies adopted: Seventh National HIV Strategy; Fourth National Hepatitis C Strategy; and Second National Hepatitis B Strategy (Jul).

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) rejected the application to add sofosbuvir (Sovaldi) an antiviral medication for Hepatitis C with a treatment time of just 12

weeks to the Pharmaceutical Benfits Scheme (PBS), arguing it was too expensive (Aug).

Commonwealth Government states that it would not oppose state or territory moves to decriminalise cannabis for medicinal purposes (Aug).

ANCD release new report: “Medicinal use of cannabis: background and information paper” (Aug).

ANCD report released: “Young people's opinions on alcohol and other drugs issues.” The report, which resulted from Australia’s largest survey of youth opinions on AOD policy (n=2335),

concluded that Australian youth showed strong support for harm reduction measures, including needle and syringe programs, regulated injecting facilities, and the availability of pill

testing, and for drug law reform but were opposed to tighter alcohol regulations. They also expressed a desire for more reliable or relevant drug information and education (Aug).

ANCD report on “Medication treatment options for amphetamine-type stimulant users” released. Used a systematic review covering withdrawal and pharmacotherapy options to identify

whether there were any treatment options with promise. Concluded that the evidence was not yet strong enough to recommend routine use of any option. For example outcomes

conflicted and most studies were poor quality e.g. small sample sizes, variable participant retention and often lacking testing for specific ATS patterns in Australia. That said, it noted a

number of treatments that showed promise e.g. Dexamphetamine, Bupropion and Modafinil and recommended further research in local conditions (Aug).

ANCD report released: “From policy to implementation: child and family sensitive practice in the alcohol and other drugs sector.” The report, undertaken by NCETA, concluded that there

was increasing attention being directed to the risks children are exposed to, but also that responsibility for the children of those attending AOD services currently remains ambiguous and

that that this impedes constructive and consistent responses across and within sectors (Aug).

Prime Minister Tony Abbot backs legalisation of medical cannabis and states that “no further testing should be needed on the drug if it is legal in similar jurisdictions” (Sep).

Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) launch position statement strongly supportive of medical cannabis (Sep).

The Australian Treatment Outcome Study (ATOS), a 11 year prospective cohort study of heroin dependent people, found that 11 years post the initial treatment episode the cohort had

received a median of 1,465 treatment days and shown significant reductions in 1) daily heroin use from 80% at baseline to 4% at year 11; 2) involvement in crime from 55% at baseline

to 22% at year 11; and 3) crime as the main source of income from 24% at baseline to 2% at year 11 (Sep).

New Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Peaks Networks formed. The network comprised all state and territory AOD peaks and provided a conduit for immediate access to AOD services in all

Australian jurisdictions (including treatment & harm reduction services) and means to support information exchange, collaboration, sector development, and quality improvement (Sep).

New NDARC research released: “Young adult sequelae of adolescent cannabis use: an integrative analysis.” The study pooled data from four large Australasian longitudinal studies and

showed that frequent cannabis use in adolescence was linked with reduced odds of high-school completion and degree attainment and substantially increased odds of later cannabis

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

dependence, use of other illicit drugs and suicide attempt (Sep).

COAG meeting led to a national agreement to support a trial of medical cannabis in NSW (Oct).

ABC Four Corners issue a new documentary on methamphetamine: “Ice Rush.” Eight years on from their 2006 documentary “The Ice Age” it reported on a new ice epidemic “ravaging

regional Australia” (Oct).

IGCD Stakeholder Forum held to discuss the development of the new National Drug Strategy. Key feedback was the need for more meaningful stakeholder engagement, a broader

concept of enforcement beyond police, including liquor licensing authorities, local government, health authorities and food law and increased attention to the social determinants of

health, including the role of education, employment and housing (Oct).

2014 Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS) reported that amongst regular stimulant users there had been a stabilization in the use of new psychoactive substances (NPS)

(37% in 2014, compared to 36% in 2013) and a drop in use of synthetic cannabis (7% in 2014 compared to 16% in 2013) (Oct).

2014 Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) reported that amongst people who inject drugs there had been a stabilization in the overall use of methamphetamine, but an increase in the

use of crystal methamphetamine or ‘ice’ from 55% in 2013 to 61% in 2014 (Oct).

New NDLERF report released: “Supply reduction policy and drug-related harm.” The report conducted by BoCSAR employed a) time-series analysis of the relationship between high-level

seizures and supplier arrests of cocaine, heroin and amphetamine-type substances (ATS) on emergency department (ED) admissions and use/possession arrests between July 2001 and

June 2011 and b) analysis of the impacts of three specific large scale police operations targeting cocaine supply. It found that increased seizures of cocaine, heroin and ATS did not result

in any reduction in overdoses or arrests for use and possession of these drugs, but that the large scale operations were associated with a reduction in use and possession arrests (Nov).

New AIC report released: “Counting the costs of crime in Australia: A 2011 estimate”. The report concluded that the three most costly crimes to the Australian community were fraud,

drugs and assault, with drugs accounted for an estimated $3.161 million each year (Nov).

The 2013 National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS) was released. This showed recent use of any illicit drug (excluding pharmaceuticals) remained stable between 2010 and

2013 (at 12%). However, there was a significant decrease in recent use of ecstasy (from 3.0% to 2.5%) and while recent use of methamphetamine remained stable (at 2.1%), the

recent use of ice (or crystal methamphetamine) more than doubled, from 22% in 2010 to 50% in 2013 (Nov).

A joint operation by the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police, Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, NSW Crime Commission and the Australian Commission led to the

seizure of 2 tonnes of MDMA and 800kgs of methamphetamine, worth an estimated $1.5 billion, that had been shipped from Germany to Sydney. Six men were also arrested (Nov).

Regulator of Medicinal Cannabis Bill 2014 introduced by Senator’s Di Natale, Macdonald, Leyonhjelm and Urquhart. Proposed to establish an Australian Regulator of Medicinal Cannabis to

be responsible for formulating rules and monitoring compliance with those rules for licensing the production, manufacture, supply, use, experimental use and import and export of

medicinal cannabis; and provides for a national system to regulate the cultivation, production and use of medicinal cannabis products, and related activities such as research (Nov).

The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) was restructured as the Australian National Advisory Council on Alcohol and Drug (ANACAD), led by Kay Hull MP, with the first priority

being to look at the harmful effects of methamphetamine or ‘ice’. The new council reported directly to the Assistant Minister for Health, Senator Nash (Dec).

The National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) abolished (Dec).

House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health announced an inquiry into treatment, testing, prevention and cost of Hepatitis C Vaccination in Australia. The terms of reference

included 1) prevalence rates of Hepatitis C in Australia; 2) early testing and treatment options; 3) costs associated with short and long-term treatment; 4) methods to improve

prevention and to reduce the stigma associated with a positive (Dec).

Migration Amendment (Character and General Visa Cancellation) Act 2014 adopted. Led to changes to Migration Act 1958 to expand powers to revoke visas and deport

convicted/suspected offenders including:

•

inserting a new mandatory ground for the cancellation without notice of a visa under section 501 of the Act for anyone serving a full-time sentence of imprisonment in a custodial

institution for an offence against the law of the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory where the Minister is satisfied that the person does not pass the character test because the

person has a substantial criminal record (meaning they have been sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 12 months or more);

•

strengthening the powers to refuse to grant, or to cancel, a visa on character grounds by inserting additional grounds on which a person will not pass the character test, including

where the Minister reasonably suspects that the person has been or is a member of a group or organisation, or has had or has an association with a group, organisation or person

that has been or is involved in criminal conduct, whether or not the person, or another person, has been convicted of an offence constituted by the conduct.

Provisions commenced on 10 December 2014 (Dec).

2013

Research by McKetin et al. ‘Dose-related psychotic symptoms in chronic methamphetamine usersEvidence from a prospective longitudinal study’ provided the first comprehensive

evidence that methamphetamine use is linked to psychosis, as shown by a large dose-dependent increase in the occurrence of psychotic symptoms during periods of methamphetamine

use (Jan).

New report released by the National Local Government Drug and Alcohol Advisory Committee: “The Australian Night Time Economy A First Analysis 2009 to 2011.” Showed night time

economy was valued at $92 billion in 2011; 3.3% of the total Australian economy (Feb).

An Australian, Paul Leslie Howard, became the first person in the world to be convicted and sentenced for a Silk Road-related crime of importation and trafficking illicit drugs (MDMA,

amphetamine, marijuana and cocaine). He was sentenced to three years and six months imprisonment, with a minimum of 21 months (Feb).

New report released: “Australian secondary school students’ use of tobacco, alcohol, and over-the counter and illicit substances in 2011.” Showed significant declines (from 2005 to

2011) in lifetime and recent use of most illicit substances e.g. amphetamines, cocaine and ecstasy. Lifetime use of cannabis increased in 2011 relative to 2008 (14.8% compared to

13.6%) but remained significantly lower than in 2005 (17.8%) (Feb).

Australian Crime Commission released a new report: “Organised crime and drugs in sport.” Highlighted growing PEID use, but also concluded that (1) that illicit drug use by professional

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

athletes is more prevalent than is reflected in official sports drug testing program statistics; (2) some professional athletes are exploiting loopholes in illicit drug testing programs; and

(3) that such drug use leaves players vulnerable to exploitation e.g. for match fixing and attracting organised crime (Feb).

Renewed criticism of the AFL’s illicit drugs policy and its’ three strikes approach (Feb).

Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek announced that two new treatments for chronic hepatitis C will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The two medications

[boceprevir (Victrelis®) and telaprevir (Incivo®)] will benefit an estimated 130,000 patients (Feb).

Government response to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement’s Inquiry into Commonwealth Unexplained Wealth Legislation tabled. 15 of 18 recommendations were

agreed to in whole, including that the government look into expanding use of Australian Crime Commission coercive powers to provide evidence in support of unexplained wealth (Feb).

Two new Australian Customs and Border Protection Service officers from Sydney International Airport were arrested for alleged offences involving importation of pseudoephedrine,

bribery, abuse of public office and other serious offences. This linked to the 2012 investigations and arrests (Feb).

New report released by ANCD’s National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC): “An economic analysis for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander offenders: Prison vs.

Residential Treatment”. This report analysed the costs and benefits of addressing Indigenous offenders convicted of non-violent crime related to drug and alcohol use using residential

rehabilitation treatment, as compared to prison. This showed that residential rehabilitation cost $18,385 per person, compared to $114,832 for prison. Moreover, once additional benefits

of treatment were factored in, treatment could save $111 458 per offender (Feb).

New anti-corruption measures came into force for Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. The measures included legal, mandatory requirement for all workers to report any

suspected serious misconduct, corrupt conduct or criminal conduct (Feb).

A joint investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the New South Wales Crime Commission, the New South Wales Police Force and the Australian Customs and Border Protection

Service unveiled a suspected drug syndicate spanning the Eastern Border (NSW, Vic and Qld). It is alleged the group were attempting to import heroin and methamphetamine from China

(Feb).

Australia’s largest recorded seizure of methamphetamine (585 kilograms) was detected by the Joint Organised Crime Group (JOCG) involving the Australian Federal Police (AFP),

Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, NSW Police Force, the NSW Crime Commission (NSWCC) and the Australian Crime Commission (ACC). The seizure occurred in Sydney

and led to the arrest of three alleged offenders (Feb).

The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing released two requests for tender: (1) review of the drug and alcohol prevention and treatment sector; and (2) the development of

a quality framework for Australian Government funded drug and alcohol treatment services (Mar).

The 56th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) was held in Vienna. A resolution by Australia, New Zealand, UK and Japan, titled “Enhancing international

cooperation in the identification and reporting of new psychoactive substances” was approved. This will foster a global early warning system about emerging psychoactive

substances (Mar).

New NDLERF report released: “Patron Offending and Intoxication in Night-Time Entertainment Districts (POINTED).” This was the largest study of AOD use in the night-time economy;

interviewing almost 7000 patrons between November 2011 to June 2012 in entertainment precincts in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Wollongong and Geelong. Found that 16-22% admitted

or tested positive to illicit drugs on the night out, with the main drugs being cannabis, methamphetamine and ecstasy (Mar).

A joint law enforcement operation involving Australian Federal Police, Australian Crime Commission, Australian Customs and Victoria Police led to the seizure of 365 litres of liquid

containing methamphetamine stored in bottles of carpet stain cleaner (Apr).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2011-12 released. The report highlighted that in 2011-12 the number and weight of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) and

cocaine border seizures had increased to the highest in the last decade. The number of national arrests for these drugs had also increased to the highest (ATS) and second highest

(cocaine) in the last decade (May).

The Criminal Code Amendment Regulation 2013 (No. 1) and the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Serious Drugs, Identity Crime and Other Measures) Act 2012 made the following

amendments to Part 9.1 of the Criminal Code and the Criminal Code Regulations:

• the lists of drugs, plants and precursors were transferred to the Criminal Code Regulations 2002 to provide for quicker listing of substances. The controlled drug list and border-

controlled drug list were also updated to reflect current substances of concern in Australia, including new substances and analogues;

• conditions and criteria for listing controlled and border-controlled substance in regulations were established;

• the emergency determination mechanism was improved by extending the listing period to allow for appropriate analysis and testing of substances; &

• the criteria that must be satisfied before an emergency determination can be made were refined (May).

Calls for a national ban on synthetic drugs following NBOMe related death of Sydney teenager Henry Kwan and NSW temporary ban on 19 substances (Jun).

The then Commonwealth Assistant Treasurer introduced an interim consumer protection ban under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) prohibiting the retail sale of 19

psychoactive products and substances nationally for a period of 120 days. This ban was introduced to fill a gap in coverage in some states and territories where Schedule 9 of the Poisons

Standard had not been fully implemented. It followed the introduction of an interim ban that was put in place by the New South Wales Minister for Fair Trading. Interim ban was

extended for another 30 days but then lapsed on 13 October 2013, when the Assistant Treasurer determined that a permanent ban was not required (Jun 19).

Review of the Australian drug and alcohol prevention and treatment sector commenced, led by Prof Alison Ritter, Drug Policy Modelling Program. This 12 month project will clarify

Australian drug and alcohol treatment and prevention funding; current and future service needs; the gap between met and unmet demand; & future planning and funding processes

(Jul).

First systematic analysis of Australian cannabis THC and CBD potency published by Dr Swift et al. Showed most Australian cannabis had high THC and low CBD potency. Moreover, the

mean potency of Australian THC was 14.88, which is similar, if not slightly higher than in other parts of the world (e.g. US and UK) (Jul).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) released a report: “Survey of secondary school principals on the use of alcohol and other drugs in schools”. The report stemmed from a

survey which canvassed the opinions of over two hundred Australian secondary school principals regarding the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs in schools (Jul).

The AOD Quality Framework Project commenced led by Prof Dan Lubman, Turning Point Drug and Alcohol Centre. This 12 month project seeks to better understand and improve service

quality and inform future planning through development of a quality framework for Australian Government funded AOD treatment services (Jul).

NDARC releases first findings from new internet drug monitoring program. Shows that Australian retailers on the deep web offered traditional illicit substances for prices similar to those

of street dealers or friends: but that prices advertised by online international retailers were substantially cheaper (Aug).

New report released from the Drug Policy Modelling Program: “Government drug policy expenditure in Australia - 2009/10”. Found that Australian governments spent approximately $1.7

billion in 2009/10 on illicit drugs and that 64% was directed at law enforcement, compared to 22% treatment, 10% prevention and 2% harm reduction. Also showed relative expenditure

on harm reduction had decreased from 2002/03: from 3.9% of expenditure to 2.2% (Aug).

A multi-agency law enforcement operation targeting criminal organisations using the South Pacific as a transit point and staging area for their activities seized approximately 750

kilograms of cocaine in Vanuatu bound for Australia. Agencies involved included the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (ACBPS) and

United States Drug Enforcement Administration (Aug).

New research from NDARC: “Global burden of disease attributable to illicit drug use and dependence: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010.” This showed that Australia

had one of the highest burdens of disease attributable to illicit drug use. Other countries included USA, UK and Russia (Aug).

ANCD released a series of reports on employment participation for people experiencing AOD problems including: “ANCD Employment Participation Survey: Full Report”; and “Working

Together for Greater Social Inclusion: ANCD Employment Services Roundtable Report”. Showed that criminal convictions were still the biggest barrier to employing AOD users (Aug).

ANCD Position Paper: “Pre-employment Criminal Record Checks” called for a rethink on use of pre-employment criminal record checks in Australia, after a 600% increase in decade

(Aug).

ANCD Position Paper: “Drug testing” overviewed the rationale for using drug testing in treatment settings, in workplaces, in schools, among welfare beneficiaries and in homes. They

conclude that there is valid medical reasons for drug testing in drug treatment settings, but that there is little satisfactory evidence to support the use of drug testing in schools or

workplaces and no evidence that drug testing welfare beneficiaries will have any positive effects for those individuals or for society (Aug).

The ANCD’s National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) released a position statement: “Funding of alcohol and other drug interventions and services for Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander people” in response to changes in government policy that were leading to an erosion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community control of AOD services for

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Community control was affirmed and supported by NIDAC (Aug).

New BOCSAR report released: Trends in property and illicit drug crime around the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) in Kings Cross: 2012 update. This re-affirmed that trends

in property crime and illicit drug crime incidents were the same in Kings Cross LAC and the rest of Sydney after the opening of the MSIC (Sep).

Liberal Government elected, under PM Tony Abbott (Sep).

ANCD released “Needle Syringe Programs position paper” which noted with concern the closure of a number of NSPs and reduction in funds. The report put forward 12 recommendations

including that all Australian governments renew commitment to the use and expansion of NSPs and that there is an immediate introduction of a prison based NSP in all states (Oct).

Australian Crime Commission and New Zealand Customs Service signed a Memorandum of Understanding allowing both countries to share information and intelligence on the highest

criminal risks (Oct).

The FBI shut down the original Silk Road site and arrested the alleged founder and main operator Ross Ulbricht (Oct 2).

A multi-agency taskforce, Operation Diamondback, seized 1.9 tonnes of a pseudoephedrine and vanilla powder mixture: a novel concealment method used to traffick precursor chemicals

from Canada to Australia. A total of 10 people were also arrested including 8 Canadian nationals during the 18-month investigation (Oct).

Alcohol and other Drug Council of Australia (ADCA) defunded by Liberal Government (Nov).

Third Inter-Government Committee on Drugs (IGCD) Stakeholder Forum held. Noted demand for illicit drugs, particularly of methamphetamine a key concern (Nov).

New report released by ANCD’s Asia-Pacific Drugs and Development Issues Committee: “The link between amphetamine-type stimulants use and the transmission of blood-borne viruses

in the Southeast Asian region.” Identified key gaps in data on ATS rates of use, but also significant public health concern. Showed ATS users were exposed to multiple HIV risks due to 1)

high risk behaviours such as polydrug use and injecting drug use, and 2) low health service utilisation. Recommendations included: enhance capacity to enable more precise prevalence

estimates of ATS use; invest in rapid assessment and response strategies to ATS; and adapt existing harm reduction services, such as drop-in centres and needle and syringe programs,

to better meet the needs of ATS users (Dec).

Peter Phillip Nash was arrested in Brisbane over alleged involvement in moderating Silk Road (an online drug market) (Dec).

Law, Crime and Community Safety Council (LCCSC) established as the new peak law enforcement body in Australia and New Zealand, bringing together Ministers from the

Commonwealth, each state and territory and New Zealand with portfolio responsibility for law and justice, police and emergency management. This replaced the Standing Council on Law

and Justice (SCLJ) and the Standing Council on Police and Emergency Management (SCPEM) and was given the mandate of fighting crime and promoting best practice in laws, criminal

justice and community safety in Australia and New Zealand (Dec).

2012

World-first study launched by the National Cannabis Information and Prevention Centre to trial a new drug, Saltivex, to manage withdrawal symptoms from trying to stop smoking

cannabis (Jan).

The National Drugs Campaign partnered with the Big Day Out to encourage attendees to ‘face facts’ about ecstasy. Free branded water was provided and a National Drugs Campaign chill

out van. The National Drugs Campaign subsequently partnered with urban music festival Supafest in April/May (Jan).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

47.5kg of ‘black tar’ heroin (and 2.2kg of brown heroin and 25.5kg of crystal methamphetamine) were detected in Sydney in connection with an alleged Iranian drug trafficker. NSW

Police and the Australian Crime Commission asserted this was indicative of the recent rise in Iranian organised crime involvement (Feb).

The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service noted an increase in attempted importations of ContacNT. ContacNT is a Chinese cold and flu medication sold over-the-counter that

contains high amounts of pseudoephedrine, and Customs had identified drug trafficking syndicates were targeting International students to collect or take delivery of what they think are

harmless packages (Feb).

Request to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to exempt Kava from scheduling controls by allowing access when used in accordance with the traditional use patterns of the

Pacific Island region was denied. Ruling meant kava remained a Schedule 4 drug (Feb).

TGA ruling added methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), a synthetic stimulant to Schedule 9 (prohibited substances). Ruling came into force 1 May 2012 (Feb).

TGA ruling added a new group entry to Schedule 9 (prohibited substances) for ‘synthetic cannabinomimetrics’. The intent was to ‘limit the promotion of “new legal mixes” of synthetic

cannabinoids that were not already listed’ and to provide a safety net “without the need for ongoing urgent scheduling action” (Feb).

New report from the Australian Institute of Criminology’s Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) released. The 2009-2010 report on drug use among police detainees indicated a

significant decrease in the use of ecstasy (MDMA) amongst police detainees: 5% in 2010 and 2011, down from 11% in 2009 (Mar).

A Tongan national male was fined $900,000 for the illegal importation of the largest seizure of kava in Australian history (almost four tonnes). The seizure had an estimated street value

of over $2.5 million (Mar).

The 55th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) was held in Vienna, comprising of over 1200 participants from 120 countries, observers, international

organisations and NGO’s. Australia’s resolution, titled ‘Promoting international cooperation in responding to the challenges posed by new psychoactive substances’ received significant

support and was adopted by the CND, following minor amendments. This meant that novel psychoactive substances had been recognised as an issue of global significance and that there

was a framework for increased global cooperation for this market (Mar 12-16).

Fairfax investigation revealed high level corruption amongst Australian Customs and Border Control: Customs has suspended or sacked 15 of its officers since 2010 in connection with

misconduct or corruption allegations for offences including ''possession of narcotics, lack of integrity, misuse of Commonwealth resources'' (Mar).

The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement handed down the final report on its inquiry into new Commonwealth unexplained wealth legislation (adopted Feb 2010). Noted

that despite the laws having been in operation for two years, no cases have been brought before the courts. It was argued that the current unexplained wealth provisions necessitated an

overly burdensome investigation upon prosecutors. The Committee made 18 recommendations for improvement including enabling the Australian Crime Commission to use its coercive

powers to provide evidence in support of unexplained wealth, allowing the Australian Taxation Office to use telecommunication information collected by law enforcement agencies and

developing a nationally consistent unexplained wealth regime (Mar).

The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) released a position statement

, ‘

Naltrexone Sustained Release

Preparations

(Injectables and Implants)’, in response to the ongoing

debate regarding the use of naltrexone implants to treat opioid dependence. The statement noted that: “the ANCD supports the increased access to, and availability of scientifically

accepted evidence based treatments” but that the “ongoing use of the TGA Special Access Scheme for sustained release naltrexone preparations circumvents formal processes to

ascertain quality, safety and efficacy of pharmacological treatment products and is therefore inappropriate.” The ANCD called for the “TGA and the Department of Health & Ageing to

resolve the ongoing use of the Special Access Scheme for the use of naltrexone implants” (Mar).

200kg of cocaine destined for Australia was seized in New Caledonia. The seizure followed an international operation involving Australian Customs and Border Protection Services, the

Australian Federal Police, New Caledonian Police and the US Drug Enforcement Administration (Mar 31).

ANEX issued a new discussion paper titled Australian Drug Policy: harm reduction and ‘new recovery’ (Apr).

The Australian Greens called for dispensing fees for methadone and buprenorphine to be covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, noting that the dispensing fees limit access to

many drug users who could benefit from pharmacotherapy treatment (Apr).

The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Powers and Offences) Act 2012 amended the Criminal Code to ensure that substances and quantities that were temporarily prescribed in the

Criminal Code Regulations 2002 (interim regulations) now remain subject to the Commonwealth serious drug offences. This included the four drugs Benzylpiperazine (BZP), Ketamine,

Methcathinone, 4-Methylmethcathinone (4-MMC) and the precursor Phenylpropanolamine. In accordance with Part 9.1 of the Code the Interim Regulations [Criminal Code Amendment

Regulations 2011 (No 1)] expired on 9 April 2012. The Act also amended the Customs Act to ensure powers available to Customs officers to seize illicit drugs at the border are consistent

and efficient (Apr 4).

Australia 21 report released: ‘The prohibition of illicit drugs is killing and criminalising our children and we are all letting it happen.’ Based on the high level roundtable discussions

involving 24 former senior politicians, law enforcement officers and public health officials (including Former WA Premier Hon. Geoff Gallop and Former AFP Commissioner Mick Palmer) the

report concluded that the international and Australian prohibition of the use of certain ‘illicit’ drugs had failed and that Australia needed to consider alternatives (Apr).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2010-11 released. The report highlighted a record number of illicit drug seizures and arrests across Australia, and a 19% increase

(from 2009-10) in the total quantity of drugs seized. Large increases in amount seized were noted for two drugs: (1) cocaine – seizure weight increased by 67.7% in 2010–11 - the third

highest in the last decade, and (2) heroin – seizure weight increased by 241% in 2010–11 - the highest recorded since 2001–02 (May).

New research on Australian attitudes to drug law reform released from the Drug Policy Modelling Program: Analysis of the 2010 NDSHS showed over 72.7% and 51.9% Australians

supported no or minimal penalties for possession of cannabis and ecstasy respectively (May).

Fairfax media organised a public forum on drug law reform, devoted two weeks of media coverage and launched a ‘wikicurve’ that asked members of the public to have their say on ‘the

drugs dilemma’ (May).

Report from Operation Polaris, a multi-agency investigation into crime on Sydney waterfronts, revealed the existence of extensive corruption and criminality. The report revealed that

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

known organised criminals are targeting and exploiting workers on the waterfront and in the cargo supply chain and that this has resulted in subversion of employees and the importation

of drugs and other illicit substances into Australia. It noted that Australia’s border security was exposed to 19 ”critical” risks, particularly in relation to the Integrated Cargo System (ICS)

which was being used to track the movement of illicit substances to determine whether law enforcement authorities were interested in the cargo. The report also highlighted an

entrenched culture to take no action when confronted with ”unusual, improper illegal activity” and concluded that this was reinforced by an “insular and nepotistic workforce” and an

“anti-law enforcement” attitudes (May).

The Federal Government unveiled responses to Taskforce Polaris. Responses included: (1) Introduce legislation to criminalise the provision of information from the Integrated Cargo

System to aid a criminal organisation; (2) Limit access to specific cargo information to those in the private sector who have reported a direct and legitimate interest in the movement and

clearance of specific consignments; and (3) Expand the list of offences for which an Maritime Security Identification Card or Aviation Security Identification Card can be refused. The

Federal Government also announced that new taskforces would be established to investigate organised crime on the waterfront in Melbourne and Brisbane. Melbourne’s Task Force

(Operation Trident) will begin on 1 July 2012 (May 25).

The Federal Government announced that from 1 July 2012 it would return all money from its Confiscated Assets Account (an estimated $58.3 million over four years) to consolidated

revenue. Since 2002 proceeds of crime has been a key source of funding crime prevention initiatives, drug treatment provision, illicit drug diversion programs and law enforcement

projects such as DUMA & the development of an Enhanced National Intelligence Picture on Illicit Drugs (May).

The ANCD’s Asia-Pacific Drug Issues Committee prepared a summary paper of the influential 2nd Australian Needle and Syringe Program Return on Investment Study in English,

Burmese, Khmer, Mandarin, Russian and Vietnamese. Translations into other languages are expected to follow. It is expected that this will assist in the expansion and further

development of needle and syringe programs in the region (May).

The Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL) issued a new policy statement on ‘New recovery’, harm reduction and drug use. Arguments included: (1) that false distinctions

between ‘active users’ and ‘people in recovery’ are unhelpful and may promote continued social exclusion and discrimination against current drug users; (2) that principles for recovery,

such as self-empowerment, social inclusion, fulfilment and happiness, are easy to support in principle but are likely to be difficult and costly to attain in practice; and (3) that people on

opioid pharmacotherapy maintenance potentially stand to lose the most from any shift towards a ‘new recovery’ approach – increasing risks of losing the employment, housing and

stability accumulated while on long-term pharmacotherapy (Jun).

Australian Institute of Criminology report released: ‘Measuring drug use patterns in Queensland through wastewater analysis’. Report outlined daily estimates of per capita consumption

of methamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine produced by chemical analysis of sewerage water from a Qld municipality in Nov 2009 and Nov 2010. This suggested that the per capita

consumption of methamphetamine was greater than for MDMA and cocaine, particularly in 2010. The report concluded that wastewater analysis could supplement traditional surveys of

drug use, such as the NDSHS, and provide estimates of drug use patterns that are not reliant upon self-report (Jun).

The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) released a report from its 1st Recovery Roundtable that sought to explore the meaning of recovery in the AOD sector. Key findings

included: “that the National Drug Strategy, which was developed after extensive consultation and input from the AOD sector, and which has been agreed to by all governments already,

has as an objective to support people to recover from alcohol and drug dependence and assist their reconnection with the community; that recovery does not mean that abstinence must

be the goal for all people with alcohol and other drug problems; and That recovery, regardless of definition, should not be the sole basis for a national drug strategy, particularly as it

would tragically undermine the gains available from both harm and demand reduction” (Jun).

2011 National Opioid Pharmacotherapy Statistics Annual Data (NOPSAD) collection report released: Indicated that the proportion of clients aged 30 years and over increased from 72% in

2006 to 85% in 2011, with the median age of clients in 2011 being 38 years. Buprenorphine-naloxone was used more by younger clients, but methadone was more used among clients

aged over 40 years (Jun).

The Second National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Conference was held: “Beyond 2012: Leading The Way To Action.” The conference run by the National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol

Committee, ANCD brought together over 400 experts and practitioners to discuss and share information specifically on addressing the harmful use of alcohol and other drugs amongst

Indigenous Australians. 22 resolutions were made including the need for (1) all national health campaigns to include an Indigenous specific focus; (2) governments to support the

development of Indigenous AOD worker skills; and (3) substantial increase in Indigenous diversion programs and investment in through-care programs in correctional and juvenile

detention (Jun).

Liberal MP Mal Washer, Greens senator Richard Di Natale and independent Rob Oakeshott called on the Federal Government to ask the Productivity Commission to investigate the current

adequacy of Australian drug laws, including ''the economic cost of law enforcement around illicit drugs'' (Jun).

Minister for Home Affairs Jason Claire announced that the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service had commenced trailing the use of body scanning technology to detect

internal drug concealments. The trial commenced at one Australian airport: Melbourne (Jul).

Australia’s first national e-mental health online portal launched: mindhealthconnect as a gateway to information, support and services on mental health (Jul).

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Customs and Border Protection Service issue a warning to persons engaging in illegal activity through online marketplaces such as Silk

Road. The warning followed the arrest of a Melbourne man who allegedly imported narcotics into Australia via Silk Road. The man was charged with 10 offences relating to the

importation, trafficking and possession of narcotics and prohibited weapons (Jul).

New research by Bruno et al. 'Emerging psychoactive substance (EPS) use among regular ecstasy users in Australia' estimated the extent of EPS use and found that 28% of the 2012

EDRS sample had used an EPS. They revealed significant differences in the profiles of those who used EPS, with psychedelic EPS users but not stimulant EPS users engaging in higher

levels of poly-drug use and reporting more social, health and legal problems (Jul).

Large poly-drug seizure undertaken by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Services and Australian Federal Police: 306 kg of crystal methamphetamine (ice) and 252 kg of

heroin. The drugs were hidden in a shipment of terracotta pots and constituted the largest and third-largest seizure of ice and heroin in AFP history. Seven people were also arrested (31

Jul).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The ANCD released a report:

“

Supply,

demand

and h

arm reduction strat

egies in A

ustralian p

risons: An update”. The report, prepared by NDARC, found that Australia’s prisons tend to

focus on supply reduction strategies, and there is a need to expand strategies to reduce demand and harm. In addition the report highlighted the need for greater levels of transparency

and accountability within the correctional system (Aug).

Regulation 4H of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (the Regulations), prohibiting the importation of ice pipes, republished as Regulation 4I (Aug).

New report released: “Social Inclusion in Australia - How Australia is faring”. Showed that while Australia is doing well in terms of life expectancy, health, employment and education,

Australia’s level of income inequality has increased. It has particularly increased relative to the OECD average with Australia now having the ninth highest level of income inequality in the

OECD (out of 26). Moreover, approximately 640,000 Australians experience multiple and complex disadvantage (Aug).

The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler announced that up to $549.8M would be made available through the Partners in Recovery (PIR) Flexible Funding rounds, to

improve collaboration at a system level to people with multiple complex needs including mental health (Aug).

An alcohol and substance management plan Toolkit and Training Package were completed for the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs

(FaHCSIA) to be used in the implementation of FaHCSIA’s Breaking the Cycle Initiative (Aug).

New Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) report released: ‘Initiation into drug use.’ Assessed police detainees’ reasons for initiation or non-initiation into illicit drug use, and reasons

for continuation. Found that initiation was in the main due to curiosity (70%) and continuation due to enjoyment (40%) and relaxation (43%). Only 4% cited fear of legal consequences

as the reason for non-initiation (Aug).

New report released: ‘The economic impact of hepatitis C in Australia’. The report by the Boston Consulting Group estimated that Hepatitis C cost the Australian governments

(Commonwealth, state and territory) $252 million per year, with a projected 5-year cost of $1.5 billion. Without new treatments, the cost will be born primarily by the Department of

Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) covering disability pensions for people unable to work (Aug).

New Australia 21 report launched: ‘Alternatives to prohibition: illicit drugs, how we can stop killing and criminalising young Australians’. Report examined the experiences of four nations

(Portugal, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Sweden) and concluded that more effective drug policies are possible. The report outlined a range of potential policy options for Australia and

called for a national drug summit in 2013 involving parliamentarians from all sides of the political spectrum (Aug).

The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) convened a roundtable discussion on Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) with participants from medicine,

consumer groups, pharmacy, government, peak bodies, and expert advisors. The roundtable report noted there were 92,503 registered medical practitioners in Australia of which only

1,444 were MATOD prescribers. Concluded that there is increasing levels of unmet need, that unmet need nationally is creating significant pressure and that the current MATOD system

has failed to keep pace with the needs of clients in terms of affordability and accessibility (Aug).

The Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) position paper released: “Expanding Naloxone Availability.” Called for expansion in the availability of naloxone as a prescription

medication for potential overdose victims be instituted in all Australian states and territories and that naloxone be rescheduled to be made available as a pharmacist only medicine (S3)

or as a pharmacy medicine (S2) (Sep).

New set of recovery principles launched: 'Principles of Recovery Academy Australia.' This outlined that ‘recovery embraces and transcends both harm reduction and abstinence-based

approaches’ and that ‘recovery does not necessarily require abstinence.’ It also notes that ‘, that ‘there are multiple paths to recovery including peer support, mutual aid groups and

professional treatments’ and self-recovery, but that not all substance use is problematic or harmful (Sep).

The ABC 7:30 Report did a feature on naltrexone implants, titled “Drug addiction treatment divides opinions” (Oct).

The Australian Drug Foundation launched a “get the effects by txt!” drug SMS information service, to which people can text a drug name and receive a health and safety message (Nov).

Crimes Legislation Amendment (serious drugs, identity crime and other measures) Bill 2012 adopted. Amended the Criminal Code Act 1998 to transfer the lists of illicit substances from

the Criminal Code to the regulations and allow for future listing of drugs, plants and precursors as prohibited substances to be done by regulation. It also repealed existing mechanisms

for listing additional prohibited substances: providing a single emergency determination mechanism and increasing the length of the determination from 56 days to 12-18 months. The

stated goal was to ensure the Commonwealth drug laws were up to date and allowed for flexible, quick responses to new and emerging drug threats (Nov).

Centre for Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use established, headed by Professor Maree Teesson (Nov).

An alleged drug manufacturer has been charged with manslaughter after his friend was killed after a clan lab explosion. It has been argued he should have foreseen the possibility of an

explosion. This will be the first such case in Australia (Nov).

Naloxone was listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) (Nov).

The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Organised Crime and Other Measures) Bill introduced to strengthen the Commonwealth’s unexplained wealth regime (Dec).

Federal Council of the Australian Medical Association (AMA) agreed that all Australian governments should implement and evaluate naloxone distribution pilot programs to reduce the

incidence of fatal opioid overdoses (Dec).

Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL) launched a new section on its website which aims to raise awareness of Blood Borne Viruses (BBVs), such as hepatitis C,

hepatitis B and HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Safe Sex practices among young people.

A two year joint investigation by Customs and Border Protection, Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity and the Australian Federal Police unveiled a suspected drug ring

operating out of Sydney Airport. As of Dec 2012 eight people had been arrested, including two Australian Customs and Border Protection Service officers, an officer of the Australian

Quarantine and Inspection Service, and two suspected drug couriers, with further arrests likely. It is alleged that at least 10kg of pseudoephedrine was imported into Australia, in June

2009 and May 2010 (Dec).

Home Affairs Minister Jason Clare announced a new Customs Reform Board would be established. Key members include Justice Wood (who oversaw the royal commission into Police

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Corruption in NSW), Ken Moroney (former NSW Police Commissioner) and David Mortimer (former CEO of TNT Limited, former deputy chairman of Ansett and former chairman of

Australia Post and Leighton Holdings) (Dec).

New research by Barrett et al. 'Internet content regulation, public drug websites and the growth in hidden Internet service’ found that sites such as Silk Road are seen by drug consumers

as a way of reducing the harm of illicit drugs, particularly compared to street-based drug marketplaces (Dec).

2011

New report released: “Australian secondary school students’ use of tobacco, alcohol, and over-the-counter and illicit substances in 2008.” The report indicated declines in most illicit

substances in 2008 relative to 2002 and/or 2005. The main exception was ecstasy (Jan).

The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, announced that 8 targeted mental health programs worth $113.2 million will be rolled out beginning January 1

. The programs

include targeted mental health training to help community workers better identify and respond to those at risk of suicide, online mental health and counseling services, and current

successful programs will be boosted to provide additional services (Jan).

A major reform of the ministerial council system by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) led to the closure of the Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (MCDS). The MCDS met

for the last time on 25 February 2011 and agreed that the IGCD would take the lead role in coordinating Commonwealth, State and Territory efforts to implement the National Drug

Strategy, and that relevant Ministers would meet on occasions when Ministerial-level policy decisions and direction were required (Feb).

Minister for Justice, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, sought public comment on whether the model schedules and the quantities of drugs, plants and precursors recommended by the

Working Party in 2007, and endorsed by the Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy should be implemented in the Criminal Code, and if so how this ought be achieved (Mar).

WA Liberals Mal Washer and Judi Moylan and Victorian Liberal Russell Broadbent called for a rethink on the way the Federal and State governments dealt with drugs, saying the "zero

tolerance" approach was wasting billions of dollars and causing more crime (Mar).

National Drug Strategy 2010-2015 adopted. Strategy maintained the balanced approach between demand reduction, supply reduction and harm reduction, increased acknowledgement

of the roles of sectors beyond health and law enforcement, and included for the first time performance measures for assessing progress (Mar).

2010 Australian Crime Commission’s Organised Crime in Australia, the unclassified version of the Organised Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA) released. Identified that organised crime

cost the Australian community between $10–15 billion every year and that illicit drug markets are the principle source of profit for organised crime in Australia (Apr).

Multi-agency Criminal Asset Confiscation Taskforce, led by the Australian Federal Police, launched to identify and pursue proceeds of crime where there is a link to a Commonwealth

offence. Taskforce uses resources of the Australian Crime Commission (ACC), the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions to confiscate

assets, recover debt etc. All confiscated money and derived funds will be returned to the Commonwealth and placed into a Confiscated Assets Account; with the approval of the Minister

for Home Affairs and Justice used to fund drug treatment, drug diversion programs etc (Mar).

Australian National Council on Drugs report ‘Injecting drug use and associated harms among Aboriginal Australians’ conducted by Anex and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled

Health Organisation (NACCHO) Inc identified a gap in knowledge on Aboriginal people who inject drugs, fuelled by a lack of accurate and representative data on patterns and prevalence

of Aboriginal injecting drug use. They also identified structural impediments to appropriate service provision (Apr).

The Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department listed five additional substances to be subject to the serious drug offences contained in Part 9.1 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code

Act 1995 (the Code), via interim regulations [Criminal Code Amendment Regulations 2011 (No 1)]: Benzylpiperazine (BZP); 4 – Methylmethcathinone (4-MMC, mephedrone, ‘Meow-

Meow’); Methcathinone; Ketamine; and Phenylpropanolamine. This is the first time the interim regulations have been utilised (Apr).

IGCD noted the emergence of new and existing synthetic analogue drugs (analogues) that mimic the effects of illegal drugs, particularly substances in herbal blends which mimic the

effects of cannabis. Noted the reported wide use of these substances, particularly in the mining industry and raised concerns over health and safety, particularly for employees operating

machinery and the risk to public health and safety (May).

New Drug Use in Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) report released that assessed police detainee knowledge of newly emerging or less common drug types. Interviews with 824 police

detainees revealed that in 2010 only 27% knew of Mephedrone, compared to 41%, 53% and 59% for Ketamine, GHB and Rohypnol respectively (May).

Australian Federal Police made the largest recorded seizure of methamphetamines: 239 kilograms. Most of the methamphetamine was found in a van at an apartment block at Clovelly in

Sydney's east, the alleged site from which the national network was run. Four men were also arrested from Sydney and Perth (May).

The 2011-12 Budget outlined new flexible funding arrangements for all Department of Health and Ageing (DOHA) funded programs. This was in response to the Federal Government’s

strategic review of DOHA funding which highlighted high levels of inefficiencies and red tape e.g. that DOHA administered funds to 159 small programs involving 2,200 direct funding

recipients (often with multiple funding agreements and different reporting requirements). Accordingly, from 1 July 2011 a total of 159 predominantly grant programs will be consolidated

into 18 new or expanded flexible Funds. Two funds relate to substance misuse:

• the Substance Misuse Prevention and Service Improvement Grants Fund (SMPSIGF) – for national activities under the National Drug Strategy, including the national research

centres, peak national bodies such as ADCA, IGCD support and health promotion;

• the Substance Misuse Service Delivery Grants fund – for services that treat substance misuse.

The budget statement noted this would save the department an estimated $53.5 million over four years and enable reinvestment in new health policy areas (May).

Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement report released: “Inquiry into the adequacy of aviation and maritime security measures to combat serious and organised crime.”

Concluded that there was significant evidence of infiltration of the aviation and maritime sectors by serious and organised criminal networks (SOCN) and that this was a natural

consequence of the strong incentives that exist for profit-seeking, particularly from drug trafficking. Committee recommended that joint maritime taskforces be established in every state

and the Northern Territory (Jun).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2009–10 released. Report noted that a record 694 clandestine laboratories were detected — an increase of 55 per cent from 2008–

09 and 245 per cent since 2000–2001. Arrests were highest on record and the number of seizures detected in 2009-10 was second highest since 2000-01, but weight of seizures was

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

41% lower than in 2008-09 (and third lowest recorded in the decade) (Jun).

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report released: ‘National Opioid Pharmacotherapy Statistics Annual Data collection: 2010 report.’ Key finding was that there had been a shift

towards older clients receiving treatment, with the proportion of clients aged 30 years and over rising between 2006 and 2010 from 72% to 82%' (Jun).

First National Drugs Campaign iPhone app developed. App contained facts on drugs and consequences of use and referral numbers for youth and families (Jun).

Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League report released: 'Why wouldn't I discriminate against all of them?' A report on stigma and discrimination towards the injecting drug user

community. Key recommendations included: that the Australian Government identify, review and, as appropriate, repeal federal laws and policies that contribute to the continuing

criminalisation and marginalisation of people who inject illicit drugs; that federal parliamentarians receive education about the health and human rights of people who inject drugs and

how current approaches to drug control adversely affect the health and wellbeing of people who inject drugs on a daily basis; and that the Australian Communications and Media

Authority be encouraged to take a firmer stand on the reporting of matters that reinforce negative attitudes and perpetuate stigma and discrimination associated with people who inject

drugs (Jun).

New head of the Australian Lawyers Alliance, Greg Barns, said Australia should consider decriminalisation, even for heroin and crystal methamphetamine (Jul 1).

The Therapeutic Goods Authority scheduled eight synthetic cannabinoids: JWH-018, JWH-073, JWH-122, JWH-200, JWH-250, CP47,497, AM-694 & cannabicyclohexanol. The synthetic

cannabinoids, commonly referred to as ‘Kronic’, ‘Spice’ and ‘Voodoo’ etc, were placed on schedule 9 (prohibited substances), thereby banning from 8 July their use for therapeutic

purposes (6 Jul).

The Australian Standard Classification of Drugs of Concern (ASCDC), second edition, was released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The ASCDC is the Australian statistical standard

for classifying data relating to drugs which are considered to be of concern in Australian society. The first edition, produced in 2000, was reviewed in consultation with relevant

Commonwealth and State government departments, academics and other experts. One key change was the removal of ‘cannabinoids’ from the broad group of ‘stimulants and

hallucinogens’ to its own broad group: ‘Cannabinoids and Related Drugs Broad Group’. The new broad group encompasses both synthetic and plant based forms of cannabinoids. Six new

narrow groups were also added including: GHB Type Drugs and Analogues; Cathinones; and Piperazines (Jul).

2010 National Drug Strategy Household Survey report released. Key findings were slight increases, relative to 2007, in the proportion of the population aged 14 and over who reported

recent illicit drug use (from 13.4% to 14.7%). From 2007 to 2010 the major area of reported increase was cocaine (1.6% to 2.1%) and cannabis (9.1% to 10.3%, albeit remaining lower

than during 1995-2004). Reported recent use of ecstasy decreased (from 3.5% to 3.0%) countering upward trend since 1995 (Jul).

New AVIL discussion paper released: “Double jeopardy: Older injecting opioid users in Australia.” Paper estimated that there were as 30,000 regular opioid users in Australia aged 40

years and over, and up to 80,000 infrequent or non-dependent opioid users. Paper also noted that the older cohort were not commonly served well by services and that they appeared to

receive and/or experience a greater degree of discrimination (Jul).

National Patient Pathways project commenced funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing. Research sought to (1) describe the current alcohol and other drug

systems in each state and territory; (2) link data from AOD, ED, and hospitals to examine AOD client experiences with health services and systems; and (3) interview clients that are new

to an AOD service, to explore their journey into, through, and following treatment (Jul).

New research released: “Counting the cost: estimating the number of deaths among recently released prisoners in Australia.” The study, led by Dr Stuart Kinner of the Burnet Institute,

revealed that among adults released from prison in Australia in 2007/08, almost 140 died from drug-related causes within a year of release and that the number of drug-related deaths in

recently released prisoners is three times higher than the total number of deaths in prison. The study called for the establishment of a national system for routine monitoring of deaths in

ex-prisoners and evidence-based interventions, such as easier access to naloxone, to reduce these deaths (Jul).

The IGCD held its first Annual Stakeholder Forum under the National Drug Strategy 2010 – 2015. Stakeholders from the drug and alcohol sector included service providers, local

government, law enforcement, peak bodies and research organisations. Key themes emerging included the importance of ongoing and appropriate stakeholder communication and

engagement, strengthening the focus on consumer outcomes and social inclusion, and enhancing data collection to build a stronger evidence base (Aug).

IGCD members participated in a one and a half day planning workshop. A mission statement for the IGCD was agreed to and three goals adopted:1. Develop, implement and monitor the

National Drug Strategy; 2. Provide evidence-informed advice to relevant Ministers; 3. Identify and respond to emerging issues. Planning for seven national sub-strategies was undertaken

relating to: Tobacco; Alcohol; Pharmaceutical Drug Misuse; Illicit Drugs; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Drug Strategy; Research and Data; and Workforce Development

(Aug).

New National Drug Law Enforcement Research Fund report released: ‘Opioid Substitution treatment in prison and post-release: effects on criminal recidivism and mortality.’ The study of

heroin-dependent prisoners in NSW found 84% were back behind bars within two years of release, compared to the average return rate for all prisoners of 45%. However, the numbers

dropped by one fifth if they left jail on opioid substitutes such as methadone and continued treatment in the community (Aug).

Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and the Australian Federal Police detected 271kg cocaine in a shipment of lawnmowers from Brazil (the fifth-largest cocaine seizure in

Australian history) (Sep).

High Court ruling: MOMCILOVIC v THE QUEEN & ORS [2011] HCA 34. High court, by majority, upheld the right of the Victorian Court of Appeal to rule that s 5 of the Victorian Drugs Act,

which stated that an occupier of premises in which drugs were found was deemed to be in possession of those drugs unless he/she ‘satisfies the court to the contrary’, was inconsistent

with the Victorian Human Rights Charter. The ruling pertained to the case of an alleged trafficker, Ms Vera Momcilovic, section 5 of the Drugs Act and the Victorian Court of Appeal ruling

that by reversing the onus of proof (placing a legal burden on the defendant to prove the absence of possession), section 5 could not be interpreted consistently with the presumption of

innocence under s 25(1)” of the Charter. The High Court noted “declarations of Inconsistent Interpretation under the Charter play an important role in calling the attention of parliament

and the people to laws that may be inconsistent with human rights”. It further noted that while such declarations do not affect the validity of legislation, they act as a trigger for

parliament to consider whether a particular law should be amended to better protect human rights. The High Court also concluded that the jury had been mis-directed about the

interpretation of s 5 and quashed the conviction of Momcilovic and ordered a re-trial (Sep).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Largest seizure of pure safrole in Australian history: approximately 288 litres, enough to make approximately 2.3 million ecstasy tablets. The safrole was detected by Australian Federal

Police and the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service concealed in liquid hair and cleaning products imported from China. Three Sydney men were also arrested (Sep).

Seizure of synthetic drugs, including MDPV and BZP, destined from Vietnam to South Australia. Operation led to the arrest of 5 South Australian men and seizure of 880 grams of

methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), 10 kilograms of phenylpiperazine and benzylpiperazine (BZP) and 1kg of 5-iodo-aminoindane. Involved AFP, SA Police, the Australian Crime

Commission (ACC), Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and Vietnamese Police (Sep).

Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL) launched an Online Vein Care Guide. It seeks to reduce the risk of Blood Borne Viruses (BBV) particularly Hepatitis C that comes

from poor vein care: abscesses, scaring etc. It outlines the risks, addresses popular myths, and contains animations on safer injecting practices (Oct).

Operation Avalon, directed at an international trafficking unit suspected of money laundering and planning a substantial importation of cocaine into Australia, led to arrest of four Spanish

nationals, 300 kg in cocaine concealed in a yacht in Bundaberg, Queensland and seizure of $3 million in cash. The operation involved Australian Federal Police, the Australian Customs

and Border Protection Service and Queensland Police Service and Vanuatu enforcement authorities (Nov).

New report from the Australian Institute of Criminology’s Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) program showed a significant increase in the use of methamphetamine among police

detainees: 21% of police detainees in 2011 tested positive to methamphetamine—up from 16% in 2010 and 13% in 2009 (Nov).

Guidelines for DOHA funding in 2012-13 released and applications opened for the first set of Federal Government’s flexible funds (Nov 14).

Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and the Australian Federal Police seized 216 kilograms of illicit drugs and precursors that were hidden in cartons on raisins from Iran:

97.7kg of heroin and 118.4kg of pseudoephedrine (Nov 29).

Regulation 4H of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (the Regulations) came into effect. This prohibited the importation of ice pipes unless permission from the

Minister for Home Affairs or his authorised officer has been granted. Under new Regulation 4H, an ice pipe is defined as ‘a device capable of being used for administering

methylamphetamine, or any other drug mentioned in Schedule 4’ and ‘that is used to draw or inhale smoke or fumes resulting from heating the drug in the device, in a crystal, powder,

oil or base form’ (Dec 10).

2010

Updated “Guidelines on the management of co-occurring alcohol and other drug and mental health conditions in alcohol and other drug treatment settings” produced for the

Commonwealth Government. The guidelines were accompanied by a training package to facilitate their implementation into the workplace (Jan).

Two Serious and Organised Crimes Acts adopted: Crimes Legislation Amendment (Serious and Organised Crime) Acts (No. 1 and No. 2). Acts strengthened criminal asset confiscation

and anti-money laundering regimes, and required individuals suspected of unexplained wealth to demonstrate that it was legally acquired. Acts also strengthened law enforcement

powers to investigate organised crime by providing protection for undercover law enforcement officers who infiltrate criminal organizations, implementing model laws for controlled

operations, assumed identities and witness identity protection, enhancing search and seizure powers including access to electronic data, and facilitating greater access to

telecommunications interception for criminal organisation offences (Feb).

Australian Federal Police’s Australian Illicit Drug Data Centre (AIDDC) opened enabling drug profiling/chemical signature identification for off-shore and on-shore illicit drug seizures. The

centre specifically aimed to collate and disseminate information to all state and territory law enforcement agencies and increase knowledge about drug distribution routes within Australia.

The centre also aimed to work with health and education professionals in reducing demand for and harm from illicit drugs (Feb).

Joint operation between Australian Federal Police and Cambodian National Authority on Combating Drugs (NACD) resulted in the detection and burning of 15 tonnes of Safrole oil in

Cambodia. The AFP estimated that once converted to ecstasy this would have had a street value of $6 million (Feb).

Stage one completed of AIVL National Anti-Discrimination Project. The project sought to identify key issues that would need to be addressed in a National Anti-Discrimination Campaign

against injecting drug users (IDU), with stage one examining the level and drivers of stigma in the general population. Interviews revealed strongly entrenched views of IDU as selfish,

dishonest, violent, unpredictable and not capable of either getting or holding down a job. Discrimination was indeed deemed necessary by many to reinforce that IDU was unacceptable.

A number of suggested reasons were put forward for the stigma including that the general public has very limited direct exposure to IDUs and high exposure to “inaccurate” media and

government policy on IDU (Feb).

Regulation 4G of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 came into effect, prohibiting the importation of tablet presses without the approval from the Minister for Home

Affairs or an authorised person (1 Mar).

Public submissions for “Australia’s National Drug Strategy beyond 2009” concluded with a total of 96 submissions from groups including Royal Australasian College of Physicians, Civil

Liberties Australia, Mission Australia, Cancer Council, Women’s Health Victoria, Life Education Australia, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Inspire and drug and alcohol research

centres (Mar).

National HIV Strategy 2010-2013, 3rd National Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Strategy and 3rd National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Blood Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmissible

Infections Strategy released. All identified people who inject drugs and people in custodial settings were priority groups in the next period. They recommended that needle and syringe

programs be trialed in Australian prisons (28 Mar).

National Drug Law Enforcement Research Fund report released: “An environmental scan on alcohol and other drug issues facing drug law enforcement in Australia.” Key challenges

include the continued switch from naturally produced drugs to synthetic products, the amateurisation of illicit drug manufacture and production, the rapid uptake of new technology e.g.

emails and file encryption and jurisdictional differences in precursor chemical controls. The main illicit drug identified for future concern was ecstasy due to supply factors – not being

dependent upon access to one chemical – and demand factors - no evidence that demand had peaked & limited negative feedback loops. Pharmaceutical misuse was also singled out as

of concern (Mar).

Report released: “Situational Analysis of drug and alcohol issues and responses in the Pacific 2008-09” by the Australian National Council on Drugs followed on from an earlier report and

provided a more in depth analysis, including both licit and illicit drug use. Report concluded that challenges for responding to substance use in the Pacific region had changed little in the

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

last decade and that efforts to improve health and law enforcement outcomes were hampered by a lack of resources, commitment and local capacity (Mar).

The National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre launched an Indigenous community project “Cannabis: It's not our culture.” The project utilised stories and artwork depicting

how cannabis impacts on their communities and potential solutions to cannabis-related issues (Mar).

Australian National Council on Drugs Report released into levels of Indigenous specific funding. The report “Indigenous specific alcohol and other drug interventions: Continuities, changes

and areas of greatest need” found that between 1999–2000 and 2006–2007 operational expenditure on Indigenous specific alcohol and other drug projects increased from $42.6 to

$89.4 million (110%), but there were large reductions in service provision and funding by Indigenous community-controlled organisations and a 50% turnover in projects and

organisations. Key recommendations included more capacity building, increasing non-recurrent funding and that all levels of government re-commit to the principle of Indigenous

community control of service provision (Apr).

Minister for Indigenous Health and Rural and Regional Health, Warren Snowdon announced funding of $13 million to establish a 45 bed residential rehabilitation service near Cooktown

that will be accessible to people across the Cape York region. The site was chosen to complement the existing detoxification centre in Cooktown (Apr).

A strategic review of the Department of Health and Ageing portfolio administrative arrangements commenced. The review was commissioned by the Federal Government, and sought to

examine the alignment of resources within the portfolio to ensure it was best placed to implement and manage the government’s key health and ageing priorities and programs, including

the National Health Reform agenda, as well as position the portfolio to respond to emerging health and ageing challenges over the medium and longer term (Jun).

Task Force Polaris was established to investigate organised crime on the waterfront in Sydney. It comprised 49 criminal investigators & intelligence analysts from the Australian Federal

Police, the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, Australian Crime Commission, NSW Police & NSW Crime Commission (Jun).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2008-09 released. Report noted that the total number (but not weight) of national drug seizures had increased 70% between 1999-

2000 and 2008-09 and that trends in relation to cocaine and Amphetamine-Type Stimulants (ATS) remained a concern. In particular, the report noted the threat posed by ATS remains

high due to the record number of related national seizures, arrests and clandestine laboratory detections in 2008–09 (Jun).

Attorney-General, Robert McClelland and Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor announced the Government would invest an additional $38.5 million to combat organised crime

through the establishment of a Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre within the Australian Crime Commission and new analytical technologies to assist the Australian Transaction Reports

and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) (Jun).

The Australian Needle and Syringe Program Survey 2009 indicated a significant decline in the prevalence of HCV antibody: from 61-62% during the period 2005-2008, to 50% in 2009.

The decline in HCV antibody prevalence was observed in all states and territories with the exception of South Australia (Jun).

The Inaugural National Indigenous Drug & Alcohol Conference was held in Adelaide. It was hosted and organized by NIDAC and attracted over 550 participants (Jun).

The first national report on prisoner health in Australia released. Key findings include that 70% had used illicit drugs and over half had consumed alcohol at risky levels during the 12

months prior to entering prison. The report was carried out by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and used data from a number of sources including the AIHW census

of public and private prisons (Jun).

Launch of Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre. The centre seeks to share data and bring together analysts from Commonwealth agencies including the Australian Federal Police,

Department of Immigration and Citizenship, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, the Australian Taxation Office, Centrelink, Customs and Border Protection and State

and Territory law enforcement authorities so as to track and analyse money flows, identify high risk cash flows, patterns of crime and the individuals, businesses and corporate structures

that may be involved in criminal enterprises including drug trafficking in Australia and overseas (Jul).

Launch of the Australian Crime Commission’s Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre. The centre seeks to share data and bring together analysts from Commonwealth agencies including the

Australian Crime Commission, Australian Federal Police, Department of Immigration and Citizenship, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, the Australian Taxation

Office, Centrelink, Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Defence, the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Attorney-General’s Department, the Australian

Securities and Investment Commission and State and Territory law enforcement authorities so as to track and analyse money flows, identify high risk cash flows, patterns of crime and

the individuals, businesses and corporate structures that may be involved in criminal enterprises including drug trafficking in Australia and overseas (Jul).

The Australian Federal Police in collaboration with NSW Police and Customs seized 240 kilograms of cocaine, the fifth largest cocaine seizure in Australia. The cocaine, with an estimated

street of $84 million was found in a shipment of pavers from Mexico (Jul).

Former AFL player Ben Cousins’ documentary “Such is Life” aired on public television. The documentary, which attracted more than 2 million viewers, provided a controversial insight into

his battle with illicit drug use (Aug).

A joint Four Corners/The Age investigation – “Crime Incorporated” – screened on national television. The show interviewed high ranking police experts including Australian Crime

Commission (ACC) CEO John Lawler, former operations manager for the ACC, Michael Purchas, former Victorian detective inspector, Jim O’Brien, and Chief Commissioner of Victoria

Police, Simon Overland about Australia’s fight against drug trafficking and organized crime. The show revealed how Operation Hoffman, a two year multi-agency investigation led by the

ACC, exposed an international drug importation syndicate with links to the Comancheros outlaw bikie gang, Chinese triads, waterfront workers and corrupt Australian officials. Mr O’Brien

asserted that Australia is only making a small dint into organised crime, due to the sophistication of international drug importation syndicates, a lack of resources and political will (Aug).

The Australian Greens Party formally adopted Justice Reinvestment as part of its justice policy (Aug).

Minority Labor Government formed with support of Greens HAdam BandtH and independents HAndrew WilkieH, HRob OakeshottH and HTony WindsorH. Julia Gillard sworn in as Prime

Minister (Sep).

Research by the Drug Policy Modelling Program found that Australian news media could influence youth attitudes to illicit drug use. The study that involved 2,296 young Australians aged

16-24 indicated that news media is more likely to deter young people from using illicit drugs than encourage its use, but news media messages were most likely to affect youth (users &

non-users) if they reported on social and health consequences of use (Sep).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The 2010 Ecstasy and related Drug Reporting System (EDRS), a sentinel survey of regular ecstasy and related drug users, reported a decline in use of ecstasy and an increase in use of

cocaine and synthetic chemicals such as mephedrone. Reported prevalence of cocaine use was the highest since reporting had begun (23% in 2003 vs 48% in 2010) (Oct).

Australian Customs and Australian Federal Police made the third-largest seizure of cocaine. A total of 464 kilograms of cocaine was detected on a yacht moored in a Brisbane marina,

following a tip-off from the US Drug Enforcement Administration (Oct).

Launch of two ANEX position papers: “With conviction: the case for controlled needle and syringe programs in Australian prisons” and “Lifesavers: a position paper on access to Naloxone

Hydrochloride for potential opioid overdose witnesses” (Oct).

Draft National Drug Strategy 2010-2015 released for public feedback (Nov).

A joint Australian Federal Police and Australian Customs and Border Protection Service operation made the fifth largest heroin seizure. 168 kilograms, believed to be worth approximately

$60 million, were found in a container of wooden doors shipped from Malaysia. Three people were arrested (Nov).

The Australian Federal Police targeted drug importations via the postal system on a national day of action timed to precede Schoolies Week and the holiday season. In total, 38kg of

drugs were captured (Nov).

High Court decision: State of South Australia v Totani & Anor [2010] HCA 39. The High Court, by 6-1 majority, held s 14(1) of the Serious and Organised Crime (Control) Act 2008 (SA)

to be constitutionally invalid. By requiring courts to place control orders on members of ‘criminal enterprises’ without rights to review whether they had ever engaged in criminal conduct

or were likely to do so, executive powers were deemed to impinge upon normal judicial procedures (Nov).

A bill approving an Australian National Preventive Health Agency was passed in Parliament. The agency will lead Australia’s fight against preventable diseases through campaigns

targeting obesity, along with alcohol, tobacco and other substance abuse (Nov).

The HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmissible infections in Australia Annual Surveillance Report 2010 by National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research found that HIV

prevalence amongst injecting drug users remained low, with 1.2% of those attending needle syringe programs (NSPs) in 2009 testing positive to HIV antibodies. Hepatitis C prevalence

remained much higher, but amongst those attending NSPs prevalence decreased between 2008 and 2009 from 62% to 50% (Nov).

Operation Unification, a joint initiative of Crime Stoppers, Police and the ANZPAA Crime Forum, urged the community to ‘dob in a drug lab.’ The community was told to report if they saw

telltale signs including unusual chemical odours coming from a premises, chemical drums, frequent visitors and premises with blacked out windows (Nov).

The Commonwealth Government, led by the Commonwealth Attorney General’s Department, released the first commonwealth Organised Crime Response Plan (OCRP 2010–11). The

response plan sets out an approach by which Commonwealth agencies including ACC, AFP and AUSTRAC will respond to threats identified in the Australian Crime Commission’s classified

Organised Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA), including Amphetamine-Type Stimulants, one of three priority risks (Nov).

Ethan Nadelman completed a national speaking tour, advocating for heroin prescribing, prison NSPs and more ready access to naloxone for use by bystanders in cases of opioid

overdoses (Nov-Dec).

Australia and Pakistan joined forces signing a Memorandum of Understanding: Combating Narcotics Drugs and Developing Narcotics Control Cooperation at the AFP Headquarters. A

‘Letter of Intent’ to establish a Pakistan Transnational Team on Drugs and Crime, was also signed (3 Dec).

The Federal Government requested that the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing establish an Expert Advisory Group on Mental Health to provide advice to the Federal Government on

mental health reforms (Dec).

The Federal Government announced that their latest phase of the National Drugs Campaign will use “In the Mix” website to target festival-goers with an increasing focus on information

and education (Dec).

A new report, “Alcohol and other drug treatment services in Australia 2008–09: Report on the National Minimum Data Set” found that treatment episodes for alcohol continued to

increase (making up over half of treatment episodes in 2008-09), but treatment for most illicit drugs declined or stabilised. The biggest decline was in relation to heroin, with 1,349 less

treatment episodes in 2008-09, and a 8,420 decline between 2002-03 and 2008-09 (Dec).

14 new substances added to Schedule 4 of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956: Acetylcodeine; Acetylmorphine; Alkoxyamphetamine; Alkoxyphenylethylamine;

Alkylthioamphetamine1; Amineptine; 5-(2-aminopropyl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-indene; Benzylpiperazine (BZP); 1-(8-Bromobenzo[1,2-b:4,5-b]difuran-4-yl)-2-aminopropane (Bromo-

Dragonfly); Codeine-N-oxide; Dimethylamphetamine; Oripavine; 4-methylmethcathinone (4-MMC); and Trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine (TFMPP). Their inclusion increased alignment

with existing legislation (e.g. the Poisons Standard or the Criminal Code Act 1995) and addressed an increased market demand for alternative synthetic drugs and drugs marketed as

party pills (14 Dec).

Ketamine moved from Schedule 8 to Schedule 4 of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (14 Dec).

The Commonwealth Attorney General’s Department, in close collaboration with state and territory jurisdictions, released a National Organised Crime Response Plan 2010–13. This

complements the Commonwealth Organised Crime Response Plan and aims to strengthen multi-jurisdictional collaboration. Under the plan the Commonwealth, state and territory

governments have agreed to improve consistency of legislation to fight organised crime; remove impediments to effective sharing of information and intelligence;and target the priority

organised crime risks identified in the Organised Crime Threat Assessment (Dec).

The 2010 Australasian Chemical Diversion Congress was held in Perth. Hosted by Western Australia Police, the Congress drew together precursor chemical diversion experts from national

and international law enforcement agencies, forensic and health services, industry and the legal profession (Dec).

First national framework for NSPs released: National Needle and Syringe Programs Strategic Framework 2010-2014. Framework was designed to strengthen the links between services

and across states and territories. Seven priorities were identified including: national minimum standards; nationally accredited core training for staff; improved data collection and

reporting; and increased availability of injecting equipment (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The ANCD’s Asia-Pacific Drug Issues Committee and the UNODC commenced a series of discussions on Compulsory Centres for Drug Users (CCDUs) in the Southeast Asian nations of

Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Lao, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. A series of three invitation-only Roundtables and follow-up working groups were employed,

using country officials, UNODC, WHO, UNAIDS, ESCAP and bilateral partners. The first of these Roundtables was held in December 2010, the second was held in October 2012. A third

Roundtable is planned for 2014. The goal is to explore options for introducing effective policies and programs (such as drug and HIV prevention, treatment and harm reduction) (Dec).

2009

National Amphetamine Type Stimulant Training Program, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, commenced. The training is provided by ANEX in

the aim of increasing the capacity of service providers to meet the needs of people who use ATS, providing earlier intervention and increasing referrals to support services (Mar).

New Ministerial Advisory Committee formed on Blood Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections (Mar).

“Meth website” launched in the aim of helping methamphetamine users self-manage some of the most common meth-related issues. Run by Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre the

site provides a self-assessment tool, and research-based, practical advice on self-management for methamphetamine users and options for specialist treatment (Mar).

Report by the Australian Institute of Criminology released on “Women, drug use and crime: Findings from the Drug Use Monitoring in Australia program.” Report found female police

detainees had higher rates of illicit drug use (except for cannabis and ecstasy), were more likely to have injected drugs and had higher rates of dependency. They were also more

likely to attribute their crime to illicit drug use, with use tending to precede criminal activity (Apr).

Release of report on 2007 Australian Survey of Social Attitudes (AuSSA) on crime and justice showed 10% Australians viewed drugs as the first or second most important issue

facing Australia. Public fear on drug trafficking remained higher in rural/remote areas than in capital cities and public support for the removal of criminal penalties for cannabis use

continued to decline (May).

Updated guidelines on managing co-occurrence of mental health and substance use problems released: HMonograph series no. 71: Comorbidity of mental disorders and substance

use: A brief guide for the primary care clinicianH (May).

New report funded by the Australian National Council on Drugs “Non-government organisations in the alcohol and other drugs sector: issues and options for sustainability” identified

NGOs were over-burdened with red tape and had to spend over 474 hours per year reporting to funding bodies. Additional problems included limited workforce capacity, insufficient

funds and reduced independence of the NGO sector due in part to increased use of government tied grants (May).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2007-08 reported that the Australian heroin market was stable but that trends in relation to cocaine indicated “a possible

expansion of the domestic cocaine market.” Primary indicators were that the number and weight of border cocaine seizures increased from 2006-07 to 2007-08 and the number of

domestic cocaine seizures was the highest on record (Jun).

The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, announced that in an effort to crack down on Australia's record ecstasy use the Australian Government would make tablet presses a

prohibited import. The announcement occurred at the meeting of the Ministerial Council for Police and Emergency Management in Perth (Jun).

Illicit Drugs in Sport – National Education and Action Plan adopted. The plan uses sports role models (for community education), targeted education programs (for elite athletes,

coaches and sports administrators), and funding to help national sporting agencies conduct out of competition illicit drug testing (Jun).

Therapeutic Goods Authority closed a loop hole in a ruling that naltrexone implants could only be used in clinical trials and in cases where it is proven the naltrexone implants meet

appropriate quality. This decision blocked all future administration of Western Australia’s “naltrexone implant pioneer” Dr George O’Neil unless he obtained regulatory approval for his

implants (Jul).

The Parliamentary Joint Committee on the Australian Crime Commission (PJC-ACC) initiated an inquiry into the adequacy of aviation and maritime security measures to combat serious

and organised crime, including the methods used by criminal groups to infiltrate Australia's airports and ports, and the extent of infiltration (Sep 14).

Second Needle Syringe Program (NSP) return on investment study in Australia released. The research conducted by the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research

estimated that NSP investment over the period 2000-09 resulted in an estimated 32,050 HIV infections and 96,667 HCV infections averted as well as substantial healthcare cost

savings to government, and gains in disability-adjusted life years. It concluded that even over the short term, every $1 invested in NSPs returned $4 in healthcare cost-savings

(Oct).

Commonwealth government announced provision of $9 million (over 3 years) to enable extra support for parents who have drug or alcohol problems. The funding was intended to

assist in the provision of in-home parenting help and aftercare support for parents who have left rehabilitation services (Oct).

Fifth evaluation of the National Drug Strategy released by Siggins Miller. The evaluators noted that the NDS had continued to serve Australia well by driving partnerships and an

emphasis upon pragmatic and evidence-informed policy. Yet they identified a number of areas of concern including: a lack of stakeholder support for the term harm minimisation, a

lack of knowledge over what constitutes the optimal allocation of resources, either between licit and illicit drugs or between the strategy goals (supply reduction, demand reduction

and harm reduction), gaps in the monitoring of drug trends and evaluation of program implementation and poor community engagement in policy development. These problems were

deemed to have reduced the capacity of the national drug strategy to drive policy commitment, to allocate resources efficiently and ensure evidence-informed and publicly supported

policy decisions. They put forward 15 recommendations including that the NDS goal “harm minimisation” be replaced by a new term “that encompasses both the causes of

problematic drug use and responding to drug related harms,” that the “imbalance of investment” among drug types and intervention sectors be rectified and that broader stakeholder

engagement be encouraged in all stages of the policy process (Nov).

The Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy issued a document for public consultation: “Australia’s National Drug Strategy beyond 2009: Consultation” which provided 2 months for

public feedback. The document asked for advice on a number of specific questions such as how to better engage other sectors in the advisory structures, how to complement the

social inclusion agenda and how to build the capacity of the drug and alcohol sector? It also asked for advice on what constituted the top priorities for Australian drug policy for the

ensuing 5 years and how emerging issues such as performance and image enhancing drugs may affect Australian drug trends (Nov).

The Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy endorsed the National Drug and Alcohol Clinical Care and Prevention (DA-CCP) Modelling Project. This project sought: (1) to develop the first

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

national population-based planning model for drug and alcohol service planning; (2) to estimate the need and demand for drug and alcohol services across Australia; and (3) to calculate

the resources needed (Nov).

2009 Mission Australia youth survey identified that drugs were the number one issue of concern for the survey of 46,000 11-24 year olds. 11-14 year olds were particularly

concerned about illicit drugs, leading Mission Australia to conclude they were in need of less fear campaigns and more information on drug issues (Nov).

Commonwealth Organised Crime Strategic Framework released by the Attorney-General, the Hon Robert McClelland MP, and the Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O'Connor MP.

The Framework sought to ensure Commonwealth agencies worked together to prevent, disrupt, investigate and prosecute organised crime. Key elements included: a classified Organised

Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA) that will be produced by the Australian Crime Commission and identify biannually the most significant threats and harms for Australia; and an

Organised Crime Response Plan (OCRP) that will align Commonwealth efforts to respond (25 Nov).

Health Minister announced $4 million in funding for illicit drugs. Key measures included $750,000 to support national web-based counseling, $360,000 for peak bodies including the

Alcohol and Drugs Council of Australia and Australian Therapeutic Communities Association, $948,000 for data collection and $1.1 million for drug law enforcement research (Dec).

A confidential Australian Federal Police report argued that Australia has become the world’s most profitable market for cocaine cartels due to unprecedented demand and prices.

Between 2003 and 2006/7, cocaine accounted for about 5 per cent of drugs seized in Australia. By 2007/08 this had risen to 10 per cent. In 2008/09 it was 25 per cent. The report

argued that the market was likely to remain highly lucrative in Australia due to a “generational shift” to cocaine (Dec).

Amendments to the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 were passed. This prohibited the importation of tablet presses without the permission of the Minister for Home Affairs

or an authorised person (Dec).

Following on the advice received from the Australian Medical Council, the Minister for Health and Ageing, The Hon Nicola Roxon MP, announced that she had decided to recognise

addiction medicine as a medical specialty for the purpose of inclusion in the AMC List of Australian Recognised Medical Specialties (Dec).

“Drug use: in the Australian workforce,” a report by the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, found that based on re-analysis of the 2004 National Drug Strategy

Household Survey 10.4% of those in the paid workforce had used an illicit drug in the last month and 46.8% had ever used an illicit drug. Only 1% of the workforce reported drug-related

absenteeism and 2.5% reported attending work while under the influence of drugs, but rates were higher amongst young male workers and for some professions, especially the retail and

hospitality sector (Dec).

2008

Report on “Supporting the families of young people with problematic drug use: investigating support options” by the Australian National Council on Drugs addressed the support

needs of families who have, as a family member, a young person who is misusing substances (Feb).

Report on “Drug Testing in Schools – evidence, impacts and alternatives” by the Australian National Council on Drugs recommended against drug testing in schools. The report by the

National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction raised concerns about the accuracy of available testing technology, the potential of testing regimes to undermine child-school

and parent-child relations and the significant cost (an annual cost of at least $302 million for urine tests or $355 million for saliva tests) (Mar).

Media reports that heroin shortage had ended, with increased availability, increased purity and decreased price of white heroin in the Sydney area. Also evident was a rise in heroin

overdoses (Mar).

Media reports that Afghan brown heroin was emerging in Sydney. Ingrid Van Beek, director of the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, reported use of brown heroin had increased over

the last 9 months and that 30% of injectors at the centre were currently using brown heroin (Mar).

On the eve of the Bucharest NATO-plus summit, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd strongly advocated for opium eradication programs in Afghanistan. Media reports highlighted arguments

against such interventions (Apr).

Collins and Lapsley released a new report on “The cost of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drug abuse to Australian society in 2004-05.” This reported that the net social costs to Australian

society had increased from $34 billion in 1998-99 to $55 billion in 2004-05. Of this, the costs associated with alcohol had increased from 22% to 27%, while costs associated with illicit

drugs had decreased from 17% to 14% (Apr).

Media attention resumed on Naltrexone implants in light of editorials and new research findings on the harms associated with their use e.g. severe withdrawal, vomiting, diarrhoea,

episodes of delirium, infections and kidney impairment (Apr).

Netherlands-based Synthetic Drug Unit reported that Australia had become a major destination for supplying Dutch MDMA, aided by the Italian Mafia. Led to the permanent appointment

of a Dutch police officer in the Australian Federal Police (Apr).

2020 Summit held in Canberra. Summit brought together experts from around Australia to develop new ideas/policy directions for Australia by year 2020 (Apr).

At an Extraordinary General meeting, ADCA adopted a new constitution that radically altered its governance arrangements, one aspect of which was that the State and Territory NGO

peaks were given a direct role in the organisation (Apr).

Evaluation of the third phase of the National Drugs Campaign released. The results showed that 78% of 13-24 year olds felt the campaign had influenced them to some extent e.g.

thinking about the consequences of using drugs (32%) or avoiding the use of drugs (20%) and significant increases in the number of young people who discussed illegal drugs with their

parents and significant reductions in perceptions that drugs were fun and increased perceptions that the use of drugs could lead to mental health problems (Apr).

Research by the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction into use of methamphetamines by Australians in paid employment found 4% of workforce and 11% of those

aged 18-29 had used methamphetamines. Authors found use was contributing to growing levels of workplace absenteeism and/or lost productivity with 13% employed meth users

reporting they had failed to attend work because of illicit drug use and 33% reporting going to work while under the influence (May).

First National Corrections Drug Strategy 2006-2009 endorsed (May).

MCDS endorsed the First National Amphetamine-Type Stimulants Strategy 2008-2011 (May).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

National rollout of Clandestine Laboratory Database a secure national repository for information derived from clandestine laboratory seizures. The database includes information on lab

locations, persons engaged in the illicit manufacture, safety, types of laboratory reactions being used, methodology, exhibit details, on-site reports and photographs. The rollout was

funded by the National Precursor Strategy (May).

Report on “Responding to substance abuse and offending in Indigenous communities: review of diversion programs” found that eligibility criteria were a major barrier to Indigenous

involvement in drug diversion programs. Two principle reasons were the exclusion of offenders with prior criminal histories and/or violent offences and requirement for illicit drug

problems. Report recommended expanding eligibility criteria e.g. enabling diversion for alcohol and inhalant misuse (Jun).

Australian Crime Commission Illicit Drug Data Report 2006-07 reported a significant increase in cocaine seizures and arrests, including a 635% increase in the quantity of border

seizures, a 1278% increase in the quantity of domestic seizures and a 76% increase in cocaine arrests (Jun).

Australian Federal Police and Customs arrested 20 people in relation to ecstasy and cocaine importation, trafficking and money laundering in Australia. The arrests were the culmination

of a 12 month multi-agency investigation involving Australian Federal Police, Australian Customs, Victoria Police, Tasmania Police, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre,

the Australian Crime Commission, and international law enforcement agencies throughout Asia and Europe that followed the seizure of the world’s largest single seizure of MDMA: 4.4

tonnes or 15 million tablets, with a street value of $440 million. The tablets were discovered hidden in tins of tomatoes shipped from Italy to Australia in June 2007 and replaced with

inert substances to enable monitoring of the distribution and trafficking network (Aug).

AFP Police Commissioner Mick Keelty conceded that in spite of the massive MDMA busts, local demand would keep the trade thriving. He therefore argued that we needed to treat

demand as much as we deal with supply (Aug).

The Australian Industrial Relations Commissions made a landmark ruling on “Implementation of random drug testing: use of oral fluids or urine as specimen for testing.” The AIRC was

asked to rule on whether it was just to use urine testing instead of oral testing, given the formers wide window of detection and increased potential to detect actions undertaken by

employees that may have no consequential impact on employees’ actions at work. The AIRC concluded that given no Australian laboratory has been accredited for urine testing “…the

implementation of a urine based random drug testing regime …. would be unjust and unreasonable ….” But once accreditation is obtained urine testing could be introduced instead of oral

testing (Aug).

The AFL (Australian Football League) announced 98.9% of players tested in 2007 were drug free. But it also widened its illicit drug testing regime by introducing hair testing to test

players in the off season and testing for a wider range of illicit substances. The new regime enters into force in Jan 2009 (Aug).

The High Court made a landmark ruling when all six judges ruled that the NSW Crime Commission acted improperly when it allowed 6kg of cocaine to be sold on the streets in an

undercover drugs operation. The High Court said that such conduct risked endangering the lives of drug users and hence was irreconcilable with state and federal prohibitions on supply

(Sep).

New book “Drug Use and Mental Health: Effective Responses to Co-Occurring Drug and Mental Health Problems” edited by Professor Steve Allsop showed that people with serious co-

occurring drug and mental health problems tended to access health services more frequently than individuals affected by either problem in isolation, but that they were more impaired,

experienced more disability and had poorer treatment outcomes. This was attributed partly to a lack of service integration for people with co-occurring drug and mental health problems

(Sep).

2007 DUMA report released. Report found that in 2007 66% police detainees tested positive for any illicit drug (cannabis, cocaine, heroin, meth or benzodiazepines), a rate that was

stable since 2006. Detected use of cannabis and methamphetamine had decreased as had levels of dependency on illicit drugs (Sep).

The Australian Crime Commission estimated that $4-$12 billion in illicit drug money was being sent offshore annually. The unpublished estimates suggested that authorities were

significantly underestimating the quantity of drugs that were undetected at Australia’s borders (Sep).

Report released by the Australian Institute for Family Studies into “Improving outcomes for children living in families with parental substance misuse: What do we know and what should

we do.” Report concluded that children raised in parents misusing substances do not fare well due to issues such as impaired responsiveness and ability to prepare meals. However it also

noted these are often related to a broader range of factors, not just substance use/misuse. The report noted that childhood outcomes can be improved by treatment interventions, but

that holistic responses are more effective than use of solely behavioural based responses (Sep).

Report on “Police drug diversion: a study of criminal offending outcomes” released by the Australian Institute of Criminology. The report demonstrated that that majority of offenders did

not reoffend following diversion. Moreover in spite of marked differences in offending between jurisdictions the proportionate decrease in offending after diversion was relatively

consistent across all jurisdictions, with 69-86% offenders without records and 31-54% offenders with records not reoffending within 18 months (Oct).

TGA ordered that Naltrexone implant pioneer George O’Neil cease production of Naltrexone implants because despite eight years of use he had failed to meet the regulatory standards

(Oct).

AFP Police Commissioner Mick Keelty remarked on the high level of drug seizures in recent years and the need to stop measuring drug law enforcement success in terms of the size of

seizures. He also advocated the need to devise better policy approaches that combine supply reduction with demand and harm reduction (Oct).

The ANCD launched a new website to support homelessness services help clients with drug and alcohol problems and called for a much bigger investment and focus on the levels of drug

and alcohol issues amongst homeless populations and the identification of optimum service responses (Oct).

Report on National Prison Entrants’ Bloodborne Virus and Risk Behaviour Survey 2007 released. Report showed 55% of prisoners had histories of injecting drug use (IDU). Prisoners who

were IDU had much higher rates of HCV and Hepatitis B with e.g. 58% male IDU and 78% female IDU were HCV positive compared to 9% and 2% for non-IDU. IDUs also had much

higher rates of prior prison experience (83% compared to 48%), particularly repeat prior experiences (Oct).

Mission Australia survey of young people aged 11-24 showed between 2007 and 2008 concern for drugs had risen from 20.1% to 26.0% making drugs one of the top three issues of

concern to young people. And in four jurisdictions drugs had become the primary issue of concern: ACT, NT, SA and Vic (Nov).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The AFL (Australian Football League) Commission lifted its 12 month ban on former West Coast Eagles player Ben Cousins following his suspension for “bringing the game into disrepute”

over a number of methamphetamine related incidents. The AFL Commission said he could play football again provided he met strict drug testing rules including submitting to up to three

urine tests per week and up to four hair tests per year. A positive drug test could lead to his immediate suspension (Nov).

National Strategy to Prevent the Diversion of Precursor Chemicals into Illicit Drug Manufacture (National Precursor Strategy) received recurrent funding of $1.068m.

Report from the National Institute of Forensic Science identified a gap in the national intelligence picture on illicit drugs. Drugs seized at the borders were being analysed, but there was

very limited information on those seized on the streets.

Victoria Police, in partnership with the Federal Attorney General’s Department, produced a DVD to educate law enforcement and the judiciary across Australia about the dangers and

associated risks in the manufacture of ATS and clandestine laboratories.

2007

National Drugs Campaign 2007 – “Where’s your head at”? & “Talking with your kids about drugs.”

Report from the Inquiry into the manufacture, importation and use of amphetamines and other synthetic drugs in Australia. Recommended standardisation of analysis and data collection,

continuation of Project STOP, national constancy in legislative approaches and greater attention to harm reduction and prevention strategies (Feb).

From “GO to WHOA” a new training package on psycho-stimulants was commissioned by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing to increase skills and educate health

professionals e.g. GPS and nurses on dealing with psycho-stimulants. The training package devised by Turning Point Drug and Alcohol Centre included face to face sessions and an online

portal on psycho-stimulants, pharmacological effects, risks associated with use and ways of responding to psycho-stimulant use (Feb).

Launch of the Australian Alcohol and Other Drugs Charter by the Australian National Council on Drugs. The Charter was developed for the drug and alcohol sector and outlines guiding

principles, expectations and goals with regard to drugs as well as rights and responsibilities with regard to drug use and the development and implementation of policies and programs, at

all community levels and for different settings and sectors (Feb).

National Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS) Strategy Consultation Paper released (Mar).

Ben Cousins, Australian Football League Brownlow medallist and former captain of the West Coast Eagles, was suspended from the club for personal reasons involving drug use. He was

subsequently admitted for rehabilitation in Los Angeles, United States and was ordered by the AFL Head to “get his life in order” (Mar).

The AFL (Australian Football League) widened its illicit drug testing regime in response to the controversy involving West Coast Eagles players. The new scheme included illicit drug

testing on weekends and a three strikes policy involving a maximum of a 12 match suspension for a third offence (Mar).

National roll out of Project STOP – tracking sales of pseudoephedrine (Apr).

Federal Government committed $150 million in new funding for drug and alcohol issues (for 2007-08 to 2010-11) as part of the 2007-2008 budget. This included $79.5 million to enable

a third round of funding through the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (NGOTGP), $22.9 million for Amphetamine-Type Stimulants Grants Program, $9.2 million

to add to the national drugs campaign & $37.9 to improve law enforcement response to amphetamines production/supply (May).

National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre (NCPIC) set up to educate and train health professionals with the aim of increasing early intervention and reducing cannabis use

(Jun).

Ninth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2007.” Results indicated that between 2004 and 2007 there was a significant reduction

in the use of illicit drugs over the last 12 months (from 15% to 13%), particularly recent use of cannabis. There were significant reductions in lifetime use of tobacco and alcohol but

increases in lifetime use of some illicit drugs e.g. heroin, cocaine and ecstasy (Jul-Nov).

CounsellingOnline service rolled out as a national program, endorsed by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing. The service was operated by Turning Point Alcohol and

Drug Centre and provided free drug and alcohol counseling for drug users, family or friends, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through an online service (Jul).

Andrew Johns, former captain of the National Rugby League, revealed live on the Channel Nine “Footy Show” that he had regularly taken ecstasy throughout his playing career. Johns

claimed the drugs helped him in dealing with the high level of pressure associated with his career as an elite sportsman (Aug).

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Family and Human Services chaired by the Hon Bronwyn Bishop released its report into the impact of illicit drug use on families.

The report titled “the winnable war on drugs” recommended that the Australian Government replace the current NDS focus on harm minimisation with harm prevention and treatment

with the ultimate aim of achieving permanent drug-free status. Other recommendations included that funding be preferentially provided to abstinence-based programs, that takeaway

methadone be disallowed for parents, and that welfare payments be linked with child protection concerns (Sep).

Evaluation on methadone maintenance by the National Centre for HIV and Social Research “Methadone maintenance treatment in New South Wales and Victoria: Takeaways, diversion

and other key issues” concluded that takeaways were vitally important to all clients, facilitating family responsibilities, ease of finding work, self-esteem and ability to cease illicit drug

use. They found that diversion of methadone was often a result of unmet treatment demand and the economic disadvantage of clients. Report concluded that easy fixes such as diluting

methadone or limiting doses may have unintended negative consequences and may reduce retention (Sep).

Chris Mainwaring, former Australian Football League star from the West Coast Eagles, died from a cocktail of drugs including cocaine, ecstasy, cannabis, Roaccutane, anti-depressants

and alcohol. One week latter fellow West Coast Eagles star, Ben Cousins was sacked by his club, following his arrest for a drug charge (the charge was subsequently dropped) (Oct).

Coalition Government released “Tough on Drugs” election policy involving compulsory welfare quarantining for people who have been convicted of criminal drug offences involving hard

drugs, assistance for jobseekers and uniform national illicit drug offences (Nov).

Labor Government elected under Prime Minister Kevin Rudd (Nov).

The Council Of Australian Governments increased funding for Indigenous substance and alcohol rehabilitation and treatment services: $100 million (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

2006

Restrictions introduced on sale of medications containing pseudoephedrine requiring that all medication be stored away from the public and sold by pharmacists (Jan).

The Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk was established between the Commonwealth, Northern Territory, South Australian and Western Australian governments in a joint operation

designed to reduce cross-border supply of licit and illicit substances (Jan).

COAG Mental Health Package announced (Feb).

Dr John Herron appointed as Chair of the Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) (Feb).

Four Corners Report: “The Ice Age” heralded the beginning of media attention into methamphetamine (Mar).

National Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Drug Use During Pregnancy, Birth and the Early Development Years of the Newborn released (Mar).

Restrictions increased on sale of medications containing pseudoephedrine: Products with higher concentrations of pseudoephedrine required a doctor’s prescription (Apr).

Buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone®) made available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (Apr).

National Cannabis Strategy 2006-2009 endorsed (May).

Report released: “Evidence based answers to cannabis questions: a review of the literature” and accompanying booklet “Cannabis: answers to your questions” by the Australian National

Council on Drugs provided a review of the evidence and answered key questions in relation to cannabis (May).

MCDS endorsed development of a National Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS) Strategy. Consultation paper for strategy to be developed by the National Drug Research Institute and

the Australian Institute of Criminology (May).

Department of Health and Ageing released updated report “Drug testing kits: Detailed discussion paper on social, health and legal issues.” Report concluded it was unable to find

evidence on the social or health consequences of providing ecstasy testing kits and whether it would increase or reduce harmful using behaviour (May).

Federal Government provided $214.1 million in new funding for drug and alcohol issues as part of the 2006-2007 Budget. Included $136.1 to increase community awareness and train

drug and alcohol workers of co-morbid mental health-drug issues (May).

Two new sets of guidelines introduced by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing: Management of Patients with Psychostimulant Toxicity: Guidelines for Emergency

Departments and Management of Patients with Psychostimulant Toxicity: Guidelines for Ambulance Services (May).

The Council Of Australian Governments agreed to a long-term generational commitment to overcome Indigenous disadvantage and to adopt and fund a collaborative approach to the

reduction of violence and child abuse in Indigenous communities. $130 million was allocated over four years including $49.3 million to expand drug and alcohol rehabilitation and

treatment services and hence reduce one of the major factors contributing to the violence and child abuse (Jul).

The Council on Australian Governments adopted a National Action Plan on Mental Health (2006-2011) and committed $1.9 billion over five years to reduce the prevalence and severity of

mental illness in Australia and the prevalence of risk factors such as illicit drug use that contribute to the onset of mental illness. Key initiatives included alerting the public to the links

between mental health and drug issues and integrating mental health and drug and alcohol services (Jul).

Launch of Headspace, a national program designed to provide information, support and services to young people and their families across Australia for mental health and related

substance use problems (Jul).

Launch of the report “Situational analysis of illicit drug issues and responses in the Asia Pacific region” by the Australian National Council on Drugs summarised for 14 nations including

China, Hong Kong, Laos, Thailand and Timor-Leste the national prevalence of illicit drug use, country responses to illicit drug issues, and Australian and international involvement in

relation to illicit drugs (Sep).

National Leadership Forum on Ice held in Sydney (Dec).

The Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) program expanded to include Footscray in Victoria and Darwin and Alice Springs in the Northern Territory.

2005

Report released: “Mapping national drug treatment capacity” by the Australian National Council on Drugs included a broad overview of approaches to service planning and resource

allocation (Feb).

National Drugs Campaign 2005 – “Speed”, “Ecstasy”, “Marijuana” (Apr).

Trial of retractable needles and syringes cancelled after evaluation showed they could increase public health risks (May).

Federal Government provided $21.8 million in new funding for drug and alcohol issues as part of the 2005-2006 Budget. Included $0.85 million for the National Illicit Drugs Campaign,

$8.0 million for Capacity Building in Indigenous Communities & $12.0 million for the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (May).

MCDS agreed not to endorse the development or use of drug testing kits for personal use at the point of consumption (May).

Ketamine was rescheduled on the National Drugs and Poisons Schedule from a Schedule 4 to Schedule 8 drug (May).

Buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone®) registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (Jul).

The second National Hepatitis C Strategy 2005-2008 was adopted (Jul).

Inquiry established into the manufacture, importation and use of amphetamines and other synthetic drugs in Australia (Nov).

Project STOP pilot developed in partnership between QLD Police and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia to track sales of pseudoephedrine and prevent their illicit diversion (Oct).

The Law and Justice Amendment (Serious Drug Offences and Other Measures) Act 2005 (the SDO Act) introduced the model serious drug offences (developed by the then Model Criminal

Code Officers' Committee) in Part 9.1 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995 (the Criminal Code). The SDO Act also moved existing offences under the Customs Act 1901 for the

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

import/export of controlled substances and placed them in the Criminal Code. This ensured all serious drug offences were in a central statute, keeping the Customs Act as primarily a

regulatory statute (Dec).

Australian Customs implement Stridor Strike Teams to target illicit drug precursor imports. The teams, comprised of officers from intelligence, investigations and enforcement operations,

sought to devise innovative approaches to 'target' development and to provide a more flexible and agile response to illicit drug precursor importations (2005-2007).

2004

Soft gelatin Temazepam capsules removed from the Australian market following evidence of harms from injecting Temazepam (Feb and Mar).

Prime Minister John Howard announced funding of almost $18 million to 63 organisations as part of stage 2 funding through the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants

Program (NGOTGP) (funding from 2003-2006) (Apr).

Report on barriers to treatment released: “Barriers and Incentives to treatment for illicit drug users.” Report concluded that lack of access to treatment, long waiting lists and lack of

support by health professionals. Report recommended improving national coverage of treatment services, monitoring the gap between demand and supply, and diversifying responses to

meet different needs and comorbidity issues (Apr).

Report released: “Indigenous drug and alcohol projects: elements of best practice” by the Australian National Council on Drugs identified projects which could serve as examples to other

organisatons providing alcohol and other drug intervention services (May).

The National Drug Strategy: Australia's integrated framework 2004-2009 adopted (Jun).

Report on Australia’s correctional response to drug use released: “Supply, demand and harm reduction strategies in Australian prisons: implementation, cost and evaluation” by the

Australian National Council on Drugs. Report concluded that supply reduction strategies e.g. drug detection dogs were widely used but were very costly and had not been evaluated. In

contrast demand and harm reduction strategies e.g., detoxification and condom provision were less expensive and had proven positive impacts, but were less likely to be implemented in

Australian prisons. Report recommended expanding use of demand and harm reduction strategies (Jul).

Report on clinical trials of pharmacotherapies for opioid dependence released: “National Evaluation of Pharmacotherapies for Opioid Dependence (NEPOD).” Comparisons of treatment

categories of methadone maintenance, buprenorphine maintenance, LAAM maintenance, naltrexone treatment, rapid opioid detoxification with anaesthesia or sedation, outpatient

detoxification using buprenorphine, conventional inpatient detoxification and conventional outpatient detoxification led to the conclusion that all heroin users experienced reductions in

criminal activity and heroin use after entering treatment but that the agonist maintenance treatments of LAAM, methadone and buprenorphine retained significantly more heroin users

than naltrexone treatment. Overall LAAM was the most cost-effective treatment, but Methadone maintenance was the most cost-effective treatment available in Australia (Oct).

MCDS endorsed development of a National Cannabis Strategy (Nov).

Eighth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2004.” Results indicated that between 2001 and 2004 there had been a decline in the

proportion of the population, from 16.9% to 15.3%, who had used an illicit drug in the past 12 months.

Australian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) renamed as the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) reflecting a shift in focus to

include New Zealand.

National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Committee (NIDAC) established as the principal advisory group to the Commonwealth government on Indigenous drug and alcohol issues (Dec).

ANEX – Association for the Prevention and Harm Reduction Programs Australia was endorsed by the Australian Needle Syringe Program sector as the national voice and advocate for

Needle Syringe Programs and harm reduction.

Abolition of the National Drug Strategy National Expert Advisory Committees.

New national guidelines produced by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing “Psychostimulants - management of acute behavioural disturbances” to assist Australian police

services to effectively and safely manage individuals who present with psychostimulant toxicity, and pose a significant risk to themselves or others.

The Drug and Alcohol Nurses Association (DANA), established in 1984 as the peak professional body for nurses and midwives in the ATOD field, was re-launched as Drug and Alcohol

Nurses of Australasia.

2003

Establishment of the Asia Pacific Drug Issues Committee by the Australian National Council on Drugs to focus on drug issues in the Asia Pacific region (Mar).

Federal Government provided $316 million in new funding (over four years) for the National Illicit Drug Strategy as part of the 2003-04 Budget. It included $215 million for IDDI, $86

million to continue existing efforts e.g. $36 million for Needle Syringe Programs and $28 million for a range of new priorities e.g. $12 to develop new supply reduction initiatives and

funding for a new initiatives. These included $2 million for the National Psychostimulants Initiative to identify good practice models for treatment and provide training and support for GPs

and health workers, $4.4 million for the National Comorbidity Initaitive to improve coordination and responses to individuals who had both mental health and drug use issues, and $4

million for a National Rural and Regional Initiative to improve access to treatment for rural illicit drug users and $5.4 million for a National Strategy to Prevent the Diversion of Precursor

Chemicals into Illicit Drug Manufacture (2003-04 to 2007-08) (May).

Reports from MSIC that use of and harms associated with temazepam gel capsules had increased in previous 12 months despite the rescheduling of temazepam capsules. Led to

submission by MSIC and Kirketon Road Centre to the NSW Health Department and the Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council to remove capsules from the market (Jun).

Report released: “Diversion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth from juvenile justice” from the Australian National Council on Drugs recommends the development of a greater

number and range of culturally appropriate diversion options that specifically target Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth (Jul).

National Drug Strategy Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Complementary Action Plan 2003 – 2009 released (Aug).

Report released from the House of Representatives, Standing Committee on Family and Community Affairs, chaired by Kay Hull MP: “Road to recovery: Report on the inquiry into

substance abuse in Australian Communities.” Report made 128 recommendations including that the Commonwealth, state and territory governments replace the current focus on harm

minimisation with a focus on harm prevention and treatment. Report also called for more effort in preventing the uptake of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs through education campaigns

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

and regulation and increased early intervention (Aug).

Fourth evaluation of the National Drug Strategic Framework by Success Works. Report titled “Evaluation of the National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 -2003-04” concluded that the

NDSF had been a success but recommended renewed focus on partnerships between IGCD and ANCD, increased involvement of the education sector, increased attention to the

dissemination of research, replacement of the national expert advisory structures and improved coordination of the NDSF with other related strategies (Sep).

Prime Minister John Howard announced funding of more than $41.5 million to 98 organisations as part of stage 1 funding through the Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants

Program (NGOTGP) (Oct).

First report from the Drug Use Careers of Offenders study released: ‘Drugs and Crime: a study of incarcerated male offenders.’ Study found that 62% of their sample of incarcerated

male offenders reported current regular use of illicit drugs, and that of those who reported use of illicit drugs 51% attributed all or most of their offending to drug use. The authors

estimated that 18% of serious offending could be causally attributed to either illicit drug intoxication or dependence and an additional 12% to illicit drug and alcohol intoxication or

dependence. But the study also showed that contrary to expectations drug-using offenders tended to commence offending prior to illicit drug use and offenders who were more active in

the criminal market, who had greater contact with the criminal justice system (especially property and regular multiple offenders), and who reported more frequent use of illegal drugs

were those more likely to have commenced offending prior to illegal drug use (Nov).

Report released: “Dealing with risk: a multidisciplinary study of injecting drug use, hepatitis C and other blood borne viruses in Australia” by the Australian National Council on Drugs

identified that risky injecting is as much a social practice as an individual behavior and that risks of BBV transmission were increased by multiple social factors including the stashing of

syringes for re-use. The report concluded that for interventions to be effective they need to fit the imperatives of the daily lives of injecting drug users (Nov).

Australian National Council on AIDS, Hepatitis C and Related Diseases (ANCAHRD) replaced by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on AIDS, Sexual Health and Hepatitis (MACASHH).

NDARC Report showed that restriction of temazepam capsules had led to a decrease in temazepam gel capsule prescriptions at a population level, but no reduction in the proportions of

injecting of temazepam gel capsule preparations by IDUs. IDUs continued to obtain the capsules from doctors and on the ‘street.’ A survey of users of temazepan gel capsules found

most had suffered complications including abscesses, cellulitis, skin ulcers, nerve damage and distal limb amputation.

The Australian National Council on Drugs commenced publishing of a free magazine “Of Substance” (funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing) that

addressed alcohol, tobacco and other drug issues and problems in Australia. The primary audience was frontline workers in the drug and alcohol field; however, it was also relevant to

health professionals, social workers, educators, researchers, law enforcers and policy-makers.

2002

Australian police agencies (commencing with NSW Police) started to deploy drug detection dogs as a mainstream strategy for drug law enforcement (Feb).

Position paper was launched by the Australian National Council on Drugs: “Needle and Syringe Programs” which called for trials of needle and syringe programs in prisons (Mar).

Federal Government 2002-03 Budget increased funding for National Illicit Drug Strategy through an additional $14 million for community partnership initiatives, $65 million for non-

government organisations treatment programs and $27.5 million to support the development of retractable needle and syringes (May).

Australian Health Ministers’ Conference recommended to the Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Council that Temazepam capsules be restricted as a Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme

item. 10-mg temazepam capsules was then shifted from an unrestricted to a restricted access (May).

National Illicit Drug Indicators Project rolled out for all states and territories, following success of ACT Drug Indicators Project pilot. Project linked data from state and national sources

concerning drug use prevalence, treatment, overdoses, morbidity, seizures, purity and drug-related crime so as to increase knowledge of trends in drug use and drug-related harm (Jun).

Interim evaluation of the National Hepatitis C Strategy: “The Road Not Taken: Review of the National Hepatitis C Strategy” (Jul).

Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 adopted with the aim of confiscating the proceeds of crime including current and future benefits that could be derived such as through commercial

exploitation of offending (Oct).

Report on the Return on Investment in Needle and Syringe Programs in Australia concluded that between 1991 and 2000 NSPs had cost Australia $141 million but saved 25,000 HIV

infections, 21,000 HCV infections and $2.4 to $7.7 billion (Oct).

Prime Minister John Howard announced that the Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative had been a success and that an additional $215 million would be committed to the second stage of the

IDDI (from July 2003-July 2007) (Dec).

A National Working Group on the Diversion of Precursor Chemicals was established to stop over-the-counter medicines being diverted into illicit drug manufacture (Dec).

Report released: “Drug policy: the Australian approach” by the Australian National Council on Drugs used consultations with stakeholders to document core values underpinning the

Australian approach to policy making: independence; a diversity of voices; the good sense of bureaucracy; frank and fearless advice; checks and balances; and leading the community

(Dec).

National Heroin Signature Program was replaced by the Australian Illicit Drug Intelligence Program which physically and chemically profiled border seizures of heroin, plus cocaine and

amphetamine type substances such as MDMA and methylamphetamine.

The Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) pilot program extended, enabling continued monitoring of drug use amongst police detainees at the pilot sites, plus the introduction of three

new sites in Brisbane Qld and Adelaide and Elizabeth in SA.

2001

Heroin shortage reported in Sydney. Both injecting drug users and key informants noted that heroin availability had reduced, purity decreased and price increased (Jan).

National Drugs Campaign 2001 – “Lost Dreams” and “Ad within an Ad” (Mar).

Australia’s first Medically Supervised Injecting Centre commenced as a pilot in Kings Cross, NSW (Mar).

National Action Plan on Illicit Drugs 2001 – 2002-03 endorsed by the MCDS (Jul).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Report released: “Heroin overdose: prevalence, correlates, consequences and interventions” from the Australian National Council on Drugs. This estimated that deaths among adults

aged 15–44 years attributed to opioid overdose had increased 110 fold between 1964 and 1998 and that the rate of overdose could be reduced by expanding access to treatment,

education of heroin users, distribution of naloxone or introduction of medically supervised injecting centres (Sep).

Report released: “Structural determinants of youth drug use” from the Australian National Council on Drugs concluded that there is a need to acknowledge that youth drug use is affected

by a range of macro-environmental factors, including socio-economic gaps, urban planning, social capital & values and beliefs, and that failure to address these factors will limit capacity

to reduce drug use (Sep).

Report released: “Evidence supporting treatment: the effectiveness of interventions for illicit drug use” from the Australian National Council on Drugs reviewed research evidence of

outcomes that could be attributed to various treatment approaches for users of opioid drugs, psychostimulants and cannabis (Oct).

Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Foundation established to address prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and research into the misuse of alcohol and petrol, paint and glue (Oct).

Prime Minister John Howard promised that if re-elected he would expand tough on drugs and support the development of retractable needle and syringes (Nov).

The 2001 report from the Illicit Drug Reporting System confirmed there that there had been a dramatic reduction in heroin availability across Australia, particularly between January and

March 2001. Price increased and purity decreased in most jurisdictions e.g. price of heroin increased in NSW from $220 to $320 per gram, price per cap doubled from $25 to $50 and

purity of street heroin fell from 62% to 51%. This coincided with reductions in use, particularly daily use of heroin (Dec).

Seventh national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2001.” Results indicated that 37.7% Australians had used an illicit drug at some time

in their lives and 16.9% had used illicit drugs in the previous 12 months.

Report by the National Drug Research Strategy Committee presented to the Inter-Governmental Committee on Drugs (IGCD) recommending the establishment of a National Drug

Research Strategy as foreshadowed in the National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 to 2002-03.

IGCD Review of Advisory Structures Committee commissioned Professor Jim Rankin to review the advisory structures supporting the National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 to

2002-03.

First National Drug and Poisons Scheduling Committee (NDPSC) conditions placed upon pharmacy Pseudoephedrine. The regulations applied to single active products (i.e. pseudo only)

and meant pseudo packs of 60s & 90s were restricted to schedule 4 and pack sizes of 30s were restricted to Schedule 3 or S3R.

2000

Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS) funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing to enable national data collection on drug market trends and provide an early

warning system on illicit drugs. This followed the success of pilots which commenced in NSW, Victoria and SA in 1996, 1997 and 1998 respectively.

Launch of first Australian Hepatitis C strategy: National Hepatitis C Strategy 1999-2000 to 2003-2004 (Jun).

National Minimum Data Set on Alcohol and other drugs treatment services established (Jul).

The Australian Standard Classification of Drugs of Concern (ASCDC), first edition, was released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The ASCDC aimed to ensure the compatibility and

comparability of data on problem drugs derived from a range of different statistical and administrative systems and thereby assist government planners, policy analysts and social

researchers by providing a consistent framework for the classification of drug related data. Seven core groups were specified: analgesics (e.g. heroin); sedatives and hypnotics (e.g. GHB

and ketamine); stimulants and hallucinogens (e.g. amphetamine, MDMA, cocaine and cannabinoids – including cannabis); anabolic agents and selected hormones; antidepressants and

antipsychotics; volatile solvents; and miscellaneous (Jul).

Buprenorphine (as Subutex®) was registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (Oct).

The number of opioid related deaths in Australia exceeded 1000 for the first time. The Australian Bureau of Statistics showed a total of 1116 deaths occurred in 1999, a rate of 101.2 per

100,000 population aged 15-54.

Drug Use Careers of Offenders (DUCO) study commenced. Funded by the Australian Government Attorney General’s Department under the National Illicit Drugs Strategy and managed

by the Australian Institute of Criminology, the first study examined the link between drugs and crime amongst adult sentenced male inmates (Dec).

1999

Naltrexone registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for use as part of a comprehensive treatment program for alcohol dependence (Jan).

Launch of Commonwealth Department of Health report: “Hepatitis C: A Review of Australia’s response.” This reviewed the prevalence of Hepatitis C and the performance of the National

Hepatitis C Action Plan. Report recommended that Australia adopt a National Hepatitis C Strategy (Jan).

National School Drug Education Strategy adopted (May).

Australian National Council on AIDS and Related Diseases (ANCARD) replaced by the Australian National Council on AIDS, Hepatitis C and Related Diseases (ANCAHRD) (Sep).

National Drug Law Enforcement Research Fund (NDLERF) established to support evidence-based research into drug law enforcement (Oct).

Council of Australian Government-Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative signed off including an agreement for a nationally consistent approach to the diversion of minor drug offenders to drug

education and treatment. Prime Minister John Howard allocated $110 million to first stage of the IDDI (and $110 million for support measures – school and community initiatives) (Nov).

The Australian Drug Foundation established Somazone a website designed for and run by youth aged 12-25 (Nov).

Data showed that the number of fatal heroin overdoses climbed to 737 fatal heroin overdoses in 1998, a 23% increase since 1997. This sparked increased public concern and warnings of

a national disaster (Dec).

Australian Treatment Outcome Study (ATOS) funded to conduct first large-scale prospective study of treatment outcome for heroin dependence to be conducted in Australia. Compared

treatments of detoxification, methadone, and residential treatment (including TCs). (Month/Year???)

Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) 3 year pilot study commenced to provide measures of drug consumption amongst police detainees and information on current and prior criminal

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

behaviour and treatment utilisation. Pilot sites included Bankstown and Parramatta in NSW, Southport in Qld and East Perth in WA.

First Australasian Drug Strategy Conference (ADSC) held in response to recognition by the Australian and New Zealand Police Commissioners that drugs were a major policing challenge

& that shared knowledge would facilitate best practice strategies.

1998

MCDS approved National Heroin Supply Reduction Strategy and National Supply Reduction Strategy for Drugs Other than Heroin which aimed to enhance interdiction at the international

border, improve coordination, technology and best practice.

Launch of the Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) by the then Prime Minister to provide independent policy advice to the Prime Minister and Australian Government - Chaired by

Major Brian Watters (Mar).

Rohypnol - more commonly known as the "date rape pill" – was reclassified as a Schedule 8 drug on the National Drugs and Poisons Schedule. This placed it in the same category as

heroin, LSD and marijuana (Jun).

National Evaluation of Pharmacotherapies for Opioid Dependence (NEPOD) commenced as a three year project. Evaluation aimed to develop and implement a range of effective,

evidence-based, best practice pharmacotherapy treatment options for people who were opioid dependent (Jul).

Australian National Council on AIDS and Related Diseases Hepatitis C Virus Projections Working Group published report: Estimates and Prevalence of the Hepatitis C Virus Epidemic in

Australia. This estimated that in 1997 there were 190,000 people infected with HCV, but prevalence was much higher (50-70%) amongst injecting drug users (Aug).

Evidence released that heroin overdoses had increased from 70 to 550 between 1979 and 1995, a 6 fold increase in the standardized rate of overdose (Sep 1998)

“Tough on Drugs” extended (Nov).

National Drug Strategic Framework 1998-99 to 2002-03 released (Nov).

National Heroin Supply Reduction Strategy and the National Supply Reduction Strategy for Illicit Drugs other than Heroin merged and replaced with National Supply Reduction Strategy

for Heroin and other Illicit Drugs (Nov).

Sixth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 1998.” Results illustrated that between 1995 and 1998 lifetime and recent use increased

across all illicit drugs. Recent use of cannabis increased from 13.2% to 17.9%.

1997

Family Drug Support was formed after its founder Tony Trimingham’s son died of a heroin overdose. Aimed to support families struggling with drug use issues.

National Health and Medical Research Council launched report: “A strategy for the detection and management of Hepatitis C in Australia” (Mar).

Third evaluation of National Drug Strategy “Mapping the Future” by Prof Single and Prof Rohl. Noted confusion over term harm minimisation and insufficient role of NGO sector and

fragmented management (Apr).

“Treatment Works” week established by the Alcohol and other Drug Council of Australia (Jun).

Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy meeting held to discuss ACT heroin trial. Trial supported by Commonwealth health minister and health ministers from ACT, NSW, SA, Tas and Vic.

Opposed by health ministers from NT, Qld and WA. i.e. meeting concluded 6-3 in favour of the trial (Jul).

The Australian Women’s Weekly and Channel Seven’s Today Tonight introduced the Australian public to naltrexone with the story subtitled “I woke up cured of heroin.” The story told of a

middle class heroin addict who was miraculously cured from addiction after the magazine had flown her for naltrexone treatment in Israel (Jul).

Prime Minister John Howard blocked ACT heroin trial (19 Aug).

Diversion was placed on Ministerial Council of Drug Strategy agenda (Aug).

Prime Minister’s “Tough on Drugs” strategy commenced (Nov).

Non-Government Organisation Treatment Grants Program (NGOTGP) commenced as part of the Tough on Drugs strategy. NGOTGP aimed to fund the establishment, expansion,

upgrading and operation of non-government alcohol and other drug treatment services (Nov).

Community Partnerships Initiative (CPI), a community grants program commenced as part of the Tough on Drugs strategy. The CPI aimed to prevent and reduce drug related harm

through projects that promoted and supported the establishment of community driven drug illicit prevention and early intervention initiatives (Nov).

National Heroin Signature Program commenced to physically and chemically profile border seizures of heroin and their packing materials to generate strategic and tactical forensic drug

intelligence.

1996

Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing released second report by Collins and Lapsley titled “The social costs of drug abuse in Australia in 1988 and 1992.” Report concluded

that the social cost of drug abuse in Australia in 1992 was at a minimum more than $18, 845 million. Tobacco was the most costly drug, incurring 67 per cent of total costs, while alcohol

accounted for 24 per cent and illicit drugs 9 per cent of total costs (Feb).

ADCA Diversion workshop held involving fifty stakeholders from law enforcement, health and attorney generals departments and representatives from drug diversion programs.

Workshop led to the identification of best-practice principles of diversion and called for an expansion of diversion programs in Australia (Oct).

Australian National Council on AIDS and Related Diseases (ANCARD) replaced the Australian National Council on AIDS and was established as the peak advisory body to the federal

government on HIV and AIDS.

First Annual Remembrance Ceremony held in Canberra "for those who lose their lives to illicit drugs". This ceremony has been held annually since that time and has triggered many

other ceremonies in Australia and throughout the world (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

1995

Fifth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 1995.”

National review of the provision of methadone in Australia.

Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform was formed following a high number of heroin overdose deaths between Christmas and Easter of that year (Apr).

1994

National Cannabis Task Force recommended that possession, unsanctioned cultivation, sale and non-therapeutic use of cannabis in any quantity should remain illegal but that all

Australian jurisdictions consider removing criminal penalties for personal use/possession of cannabis.

Launch of the Australian Drug Law Reform Foundation (Apr).

Launch of Drug Free Australia as an unfunded national network promoting a drug free Australia.

First National Hepatitis C Action Plan developed and endorsed by the Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council. Strategy aimed to minimise transmission and the social and personal

impact of Hepatitis C (Oct).

First voluntary Code of Conduct developed between industry and law enforcement regarding diversion of chemicals into illicit drug manufacture. Code was adopted by members of the

Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association (PACIA) and Science Industry Australia (SIA) and sought to cooperate with government and law enforcement agencies and prevent

diversion of chemicals and equipment into illicit production of drugs.

1993

Re-launch of NCADA as the National Drug Strategy (NDS).

First National Policy on Methadone adopted.

Commonwealth funding for implementation of the NDS provided to law enforcement for the first time. Proportion of Commonwealth funds (matched with equal state funds) scheduled to

increase to 3% in 1993-94, 7% in 1994-95 and 10% in 1995-96.

Australian Medical and Professional Society on Alcohol and Other Drugs (AMPSAD) renamed as the Australian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) (Nov).

The Australian Parliamentary Group for Drug Law Reform launched the “Charter for Drug Law Reform” which called for an end to prohibition (Nov).

Fourth national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Social Issues Survey, 1993.”

The 1988 United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances came into force in Australia.

The final Australian jurisdiction implemented Needle Syringe Programs making it a national policy.

National drug education campaign on amphetamines: “Speed catches up with you.”

1992

Manly meeting: Decision was made to assign greater role to law enforcement in administration of the National Drug Strategy.

The National Drug Strategy Committee convened a National Task Force on Cannabis to produce papers summarising the current state of knowledge about cannabis (Apr).

National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA) established in Adelaide.

Launch of the Australian Parliamentary Group for Drug Law Reform.

1991

Second evaluation of NCADA: Prof Ian Webster (Chair). Report titled “No Quick Fix: An evaluation of NCADA 1992” concluded there was “no quick fix” to the drug problem and NCADA

needed greater strategic direction e.g. introduction of a national drug strategic unit to oversee implementation.

Third national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Social Issues Survey, 1991.”

Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing released a report by Collins and Lapsley, “Estimating the economic costs of drug abuse in Australia.” This estimated that in 1988 drug

abuse cost the Australian community more than $14.3 billion, equivalent to 4.6% of gross domestic product for that year. Tobacco cost $9.7 billion, alcohol cost $3.9 billion and illicit

drugs cost $1.2 billion.

1990

National Centre for HIV Social Research established.

Commonwealth Government ratified the United Nations Convention on Illicit Trafficking in Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances.

First national census of clients of treatment service agencies (COTSA) conducted (Mar).

National Health and Medical Research Council released first formal statement on Hepatitis C.

1989

National HIV/AIDS Strategy launched – emphasis on prevention and harm reduction.

Commonwealth Government funded first injecting drug user organisations.

First Australian Hepatitis C antibody studies initiated. Showed a high prevalence of Hepatitis C amongst injecting drug users.

Release of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on the National Criminal Authority report: “Drugs, Crime and Society.” Report examined the efficacy and social costs of drug law

enforcement and concluded that prohibition had not worked and was associated with considerable costs to users and society. Committee outlined a number of possible alternatives to

the current policy, including harsher penalties, decriminalisation and regulation, but did not come to a consensus as to which alternative was best (May).

1988

First evaluation of NCADA by 5 person taskforce. Report titled “Report of the NCADA Task Force on Evaluation (1988)” concluded had been considerable progress – expansion of

treatment services, community awareness and better monitoring and evaluation.

Australian IV League (AIVL) began as unfunded national network representing drug users and drug user organizations.

Second national household survey on drugs conducted: “National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Social Issues Survey, 1988.”

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Australian National Council on AIDS established.

1987

National Centre for HIV Epidemiology and Research began first Australian clinical trial of AZT, a promising anti–retroviral (Feb).

Commonwealth government launched a $2.9m National AIDS Education Campaign, including the Grim Reaper television advertisement. AZT approved as a treatment, agreement

between Commonwealth and States to share costs

1986

National “Drug Offensive” media campaign launched (Apr).

Two research centres established: National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) in Sydney and National Drug Research Institute (NDRI) (then called the National Centre for

Research into Prevention of Drug Abuse) in Perth.

Federal government provided funding and national recognition to newly formed Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations.

First Needle Syringe Program (NSP) opened - Darlinghurst (Nov).

1985

NCADA – National Campaign Against Drug Abuse adopted at Special Premiers Conference. Campaign heralded a partnerships approach to illicit and licit drugs between federal and state

and territory governments with the aim of minimizing harms caused by alcohol and others drugs.

National Drug Strategy Committee (NDSC) established to lead policy development in conjunction with the Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (MCDS).

Methadone endorsed as an appropriate treatment intervention and first guidelines approved by the Australian Health Ministers’ Conference.

First national household survey on drugs conducted: “Social issues in Australia, 1985.”

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019: ACT, NSW, NT and Qld

Year

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

Queensland

2019

ACT Government gave the green light for a

second pill testing trial in the ACT. It will be

held at the Groovin the Moo festival on 28

April and be run by Pill Testing Australia

(formerly STA-SAFE) and independently

evaluated by ANU. On announcing the

decision, the government stated:

“Governments have a responsibility to not

only try and prevent drug use but also to

support initiatives that reduce the harms

associated with drug use. Pill testing does

not make taking illicit drugs safe and our

message to the community will always be,

don’t take drugs. However, pill testing

provides a health intervention at the point

when someone is making the decision to

take a pill. By making this service available

at music festivals there is the potential to

save lives” (Feb 18).

The ACT Legislative Assembly referred the

Drugs of Dependence (Personal Use)

Amendment Bill 2018 to the Standing

Committee on Health, Ageing and

Community Services with a requirement to

report back by 6 June 2019 (Feb).

Findings of the Standing Committee on

Health, Ageing and Community Services

inquiry into the Drugs of Dependence

(Personal Use) Amendment Bill 2018

released. The committee was broadly

favourable of the change, but noted the

limits of an own cultivation model: “There is

a portion of the population who would use

cannabis but do not necessarily want to,

have the facilities or the expertise to

cultivate their own cannabis plants.” “To

realise the intent of the Bill of legalising

individual use of cannabis it is important to

provide options apart from individual, home

based, cultivation.” Key recommendations:

• That, subject to the following

comments and amendments, the

Drugs of Dependence (Personal

Cannabis Use) Amendment Bill

2018 be supported.

• That a cannabis drug driving test

that determines impairment be

adopted.

• That group cultivation (also known

as cannabis social clubs) be

permitted where the number of

Alex Ross-King, 19, died at the FOMO music

festival in Paramatta. This marked the firth

young person to die at a Sydney music

festival in four months (Jan 12),

NSW Coroner announced an inquest would

be held into the five NSW festival deaths

that occurred in 2018 and 2019 (Jan 15).

NSW Police commence pilot use of on-the-

spot fines ($400) instead of arrest for

simple possession of drugs other than

cannabis at music festivals. Threshold limits

for this include 0.25g MDMA/Ecstasy in

capsule form; 0.75g MDMA/Ecstasy in any

other form e.g. pill; and 1g cocaine or

amphetamine (Jan 26).

New research released: “Trends and

offending circumstances in the police use

of drug detection dogs in New South Wales.”

This analysed all criminal incidents involving

police use of drug detection dogs between

June 2008 and June 2018 and showed that

in spite of increased police powers to target

supply:

• Supply offences were detected in

only 4.8% of all criminal incidents

(compared to 86.4% for

use/possession).

• The most commonly detected drugs

were cannabis and MDMA/ecstasy.

The research showed that this was a

consequence of where drug dogs were

deployed, as dogs were mostly deployed in

recreational or public settings, but when

deployed at residential settings suppliers

were detected in 52.5% occasions (Feb).

NSW Government announced new licensing

scheme for festivals would only apply to 14

‘high risk’ music festivals, defined as “those

where a serious drug related illness or death

has occurred in the past three years or

where the Independent Liquor & Gaming

Authority has determined, or where expert

advice from NSW Health and NSW Police

indicate that there may be a significant risk

of serious drug related illness or death”.

Each will require a safety management plan,

designed to “deal with the evolving

challenge of illegal drug use at their

festivals’ and ‘to help ensure we don’t see a

repeat of the five festival deaths in 2018.’

Select Committee on a Northern Territory

Harm Reduction Strategy for Reducing

Addictive Behaviours (the Committee),

inquiring into how best to prevent or

mitigate the harms that stem from addictive

behaviours in the NT, released interim

report. This followed receipt of received 33

public submissions and holding of public

hearings in Darwin, Katherine, Tennant

Creek and Alice Springs and a visit to see

the Canadian cannabis legalization and

regulation. Key issues identified in the NT

were:

• High AOD related highs in the NT;

• Insufficient funding for treatment

providers;

• Unaddressed but underlying social

disadvantage;

• Need for expand alternatives to

incarceration.

The Committee also noted many more

innovative approaches were being taken in

other parts of the globe. It noted that based

on the Committee’s initial review of the

evidence, some of the core elements that

will be considered when developing these

options include:

• Strengthening of harm reduction initiatives

for Territorians who persist with drug use,

acknowledging that not every user is willing

or able to abstain. NSPs and pill testing are

examples of initiatives that have a sound

evidence base for reducing harms.

• Amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act to

allow for clearer and more uniform

decriminalisation, removing the

inconsistencies that currently exist in the

application of police discretion. Spain and

the Netherlands have taken a similar step

by allowing ‘cannabis clubs’98 to operate

with impunity.

• Development of systems to improve

coordination, avoid unnecessary duplication

of services and ensure the most effective

distribution of resources, especially for

remote communities.

• More extensive involvement of Aboriginal

people and organisations in the design and

delivery of programs for Aboriginal

Queensland AOD Treatment and Harm

Reduction Outcomes Framework released.

This is the first of its kind in Australia and

seeks to support alcohol and other drugs

services to be able to monitor and improve

their outcomes. The framework was

developed in recognition that measuring the

impact of AOD treatment and harm

reduction in the lives of clients and

communities is essential to ensuring that

organisational practice standards continue

to improve. The THROF is intended for

services to use as a guide to self-identify a

range of client, organisational and system

outcome indicators, which they consider

most relevant to their service model for

implementation. The framework includes

universal outcomes, such as that a) all

clients should feel welcomed and respected

and b) that treatment types offered are

congruent with assessment and client

preference and additional outcomes such as

that clients report improvement in social,

cultural or community support where

indicated (Mar).

Two people died (a 24 year old man and 22

year old women) at the Rabbits Eat Lettuce

music festival near Warwick in Queensland

(Apr).

Queensland Police seized 766kg MDMA in

Loganlea south of Brisbane – the largest

MDMA seizure in Queensland and third

largest MDMA seizure in Australia. Two UK

citizens aged 51 and 40 and a 26-year-old

Qld man were arrested. An additional 200kg

of ice was seized in Auckland the week

prior, as well as two men – a 60-year-old

man and 49-year-old man both from the UK

(Aug).

Four people died from suspected drug

overdoses in Brisbane and six more were

hospitalized that are suspected to be GHB

related. This follows a spate of fatal and

non-fatal overdoses in Perth (Dec 13).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Year

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

Queensland

people in the group is between 2-

10 and the cannabis is cultivated

on the premises of one of the

members.

• That appropriate measures for

overturning convictions relating to

possession and cultivation of

cannabis for personal use be

considered.

• That strong public information

about the provisions of the Drugs

of Dependence (Personal Cannabis

Use) Amendment Bill 2018 proceed

or coincide with the implementation

of the Drugs of Dependence

(Personal Cannabis Use)

Amendment Bill 2018.

• That the ACT Government

intervene in any prosecution by the

Commonwealth of ACT residents

who cultivate or possess cannabis

to defend the intent of the Bill

(Jun).

On 25 September 2019, the Legislative

Assembly of the Australian Capital Territory

(ACT), voted 10:7 to approve a law

legalising personal cultivation, possession

and use of cannabis for recreational

purposes. The draft law had been introduced

as a Private Member’s Bill in December

2018. The Background Note to the Act

describes the objective as a “harm

minimisation approach”, acknowledging that

“the outright prohibition model of drug

policy is not working”. The Drugs of

Dependence (Personal Use) Amendment Act

2019 is scheduled to enter into force on 31

January 2020. It would exempt people over

18 years old from penalties for cultivation of

up to two plants per person (maximum four

plants per household) kept in part of the

home not generally accessible by the public,

and for possession of up to 50g of dried

cannabis herb or 150g of “fresh” cannabis.

This replaces, for adults only, the “simple

cannabis offence notice” (monetary fine)

currently issued to some people for self-

administration, possession or cultivation of

cannabis, but maintains existing youth

therapeutic and non-therapeutic

diversionary schemes for cannabis use,

possession and cultivation, including the

simple cannabis offence notice (SCON)

scheme (Sep).

The "high risk" were identified as Defqon.1

FOMO, Days Like This and Laneway (Feb).

NSW Coroner delivered findings into a

cluster of opioid-related deaths in NSW and

recommended that the premier host a drug

summit and consider decriminalization of

use and possession to reduce drug-related

harms (Mar).

The Federal Liberal National Government

announced investment of $3 million over

two years to assist in the development of a

residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation

facility in Dubbo (Mar).

NSW Parliamentary Inquiry conduced into

the impact and implementation of the Liquor

Amendment (Music Festivals) Regulation

2019 and the Gaming and Liquor

Administration Amendment (Music Festivals)

Regulation 2019. Key findings: a) there had

been insufficient consultation into both

regulations; b) the implementation of the

festival licensing scheme had caused

uncertainty in the NSW music festival

industry; c) that the new regulations be

disallowed & d) that the NSW Government

should establish a regulatory roundtable

with industry and other to consult on all

future matters (May-Aug).

Women who tested positive for cannabis

through roadside drug testing was let off on

a ‘passive smoking defence’ after she

claimed she had recently visited her

terminally ill neighbor who had smoked

medical cannabis in her presence. This was

deemed a landmark case as it was the first

time passive smoking has been accepted as

a defence (May).

NSW Coronial Inquest held by Magistrate

Harriet Grahame, Deputy State Coroner,

into the deaths of six patrons at NSW music

festivals. Hearings were held 8-19 July, 10-

13 Sep, and 19-20 Sep, and included

evidence from NSW Police, on-site medical

teams, families, friends, researchers. It

sparked intensive media coverage (July &

Sep).

New research released by Michael Grewcock

and Vicki Sentas entitled “Rethinking strip

searching by NSW Police” which found strip

searches were used 2774 times in the 12

months to 30 November 2006 compared to

5,4835 in the 12 months to 30 June 2018,

an almost 20 fold increase in less than 12

Territorians (Mar).

On Wednesday 20 March 2019, the

Legislative Assembly of the Northern

Territory dissolved the Select Committee on

a Northern Territory harm Reduction

Strategy for Addictive Behaviours (Mar).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Year

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

Queensland

New research released by Dr Olsen et al:

“ACT pill testing trial 2019 – program

evaluation.” This was an independent

evaluation of the 2019 Groovin the Moo

festival pill testing trial. Key findings:

• the ACT Pill Testing Trial was

implemented as planned &

provided harm reduction

information to 234 patrons and it

identified seven substances

containing a potentially dangerous

substance, N-ethyl pentylone;

• the service was well received by

patrons and stakeholders. For

example, most patrons rated the

clarity of the information provided

as good or very good and reported

they would use the service again;

• the service impacted positively on

patron knowledge, attitudes and

behaviours. For example,

participants were more willing to

use healthcare providers, brief

intervention providers/peer

counsellors, home pill testing kits,

and written harm reduction

materials after attending the

service and all those who had a

very dangerous substance detected

disposed of that drug in the

amnesty bin;

• the program produced valuable

information about illicit drug

availability in Canberra, including

the identification of a substance

previously unidentified in the ACT.

They thus recommended developing further

pill testing services both in the ACT and

other parts of Australia (Dec).

The ACT Supreme Court Drug and Alcohol

Sentencing List (DASL) (formerly referred to

as the ACT Drug and Alcohol Court)

commenced – a first for the territory. This

will involve up to 35 offenders during the

trial period (Dec 3 until June 2021) (Dec 3).

years and that 91% of strip searches were

for reasons of suspicion of possession of

drugs. They concluded that the definition of

a strip search in NSW was too vague, that

strip searches cause harm, that some strip

search practices go beyond the law and that

legal frameworks surrounding strip searches

in other states provide much clearer

protections (Aug 22).

Law Enforcement Conduct Commission held

hearing into the police use of strip-search of

young people at NSW music festivals. The

inquiry showed a 16 year old girl was strip-

searched at Splendor in the Grass after a

false drug detection dog indication, without

a parent or guardian present – a breach of

police procedures and that at the Lost City

music festival only 5 of 30 searches had

support people present (Oct & Dec).

The NSW Special Commission of Inquiry into

the Drug ‘Ice’ report by lawyers

recommends decriminalisation of drug use

and/or expanding diversion (Oct).

NSW Coronial Inquest findings released. Key

findings: Nathan Tran, 18, Diana Nguyen,

21, Joseph Pham, 23, Callum Brosnan, 19,

Alexandra Ross-King, 19, and Joshua Tam,

22, all died from MDMA toxicity or

complications of MDMA use at music

festivals between December 2017 and

January 2019. But common contributing

factors included a) a significant police

presence including drug detection dogs at

each of the festivals, b) poly-drug use –

particularly consumption of alcohol as well

as MDMA, c) a lack of knowledge about the

potential dangers of MDMA, and d) heat.

Key recommendations:

• Introduce pill testing – both front-

of house services at festivals and a

permanent off-site drug checking

facility;

• Expand peer-delivered harm

reduction and reduction services;

• Remove drug detection dogs at

festivals;

• Limit the use of strip searches to

circumstances where there is a

reasonable suspicion of supply’;

• Decriminalise personal drug use;

• Hold a drug summit to develop

evidence-based drug policy (7

Nov).

NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller

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engaged in a high-profile campaign

defending the use of strip-searches. In a

front-page interview with Sydney’s Daily

Telegraph he said young people should have

“a little bit of fear” of police (Nov).

A 24 year-old Melbourne man, died of a

suspected drug overdose at the Strawberry

Fields music festival near the Victorian

border (Nov).

2018

Green light given for pill testing trial at

Groovin Moo (Apr 26).

First Australian pill testing trial conducted at

Groovin Moo, University of Canberra by the

independent Safety Testing Advisory Service

at Festivals and Events (STA-SAFE)

consortium (Apr 29).

Results from first Australian pill testing trial

at Canberra's Groovin the Moo festival

released. Found that than 80% of

participants (70 out of the trial's 83

participants) believed they had bought

MDMA, but only 42 of the 70 pills contained

some MDMA, and 32 contained a high purity

MDMA. 42% participants said they would

modify their behaviour, 12% indicated they

would use less drugs and 18% said they

wouldn't use illicit drugs. The report

concluded: “The pilot demonstrated that

such an intervention is possible and that

people are willing to use the service, despite

the limitations arising from the tight

timelines, inauspicious physical

infrastructure and the lack of dissemination

strategies on site during the festival” (Jun).

ACT Labor backbencher Michael Pettersson

bill proposed legalising cannabis for personal

use, via removing cannabis possession of

less than 50g by an adult as an offence and

allowing people legally have four cannabis

plants (Sep).

ACT Drug Strategy Action Plan 2018-2021

released, with 43 actions. Key actions:

• To explore opportunities to expand

on pill testing at events in the ACT;

• To investigate the feasibility, need,

effectiveness and appropriateness

of establishing a medically

supervised injecting facility in the

ACT.

Other actions included:

• To improve access to sterile

injecting equipment and disposal;

• To expand access to hepatitis and

Roadside drug testing expanded in NSW to

include tests for cocaine (Jul 1).

Joseph Pham (aged 23) and Diana Nguyen

(aged 21) died from drug-related overdoses

at defqon.1 festival in Penrith. 7 others were

hospitalised (including 3 in intensive care)

during the festival (Sep 15).

The NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, vowed

to “shut down” Defqon.1 after the suspected

overdoses, and maintained opposition to pill

testing over concerns this would send a

‘green light’ (Sep 16).

NSW Premier established a NSW Safety

Festival panel, involving NSW Police

Commissioner, Mick Fuller APM, NSW Chief

Medical Officer Dr Kerry Chant and Chair of

the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority

Philip Crawford, to provide advice on:

• Whether new offences or increased

penalties are required to stop drug

dealers endangering lives;

• How music festival promoters and

operators can improve safety at

their festivals; and

• Whether improved drug education

is required to address the increase

in illegal drug use in our

community.

Any consideration of the merits of pill

testing was outside the terms of reference

(Sep 18).

Fair Treatment – Long walk to treatment

launched led by Uniting Church Synod of

NSW and ACT. This campaign involve a walk

with a baton from Dubbo to NSW Parliament

in the aim of highlighting the large gaps in

treatment for people in rural/regional areas.

The walk commenced Oct 15 and ended Nov

2 and involved 500,000 steps – the travel

distance it would take a person in regional

NSW to reach drug treatment (Oct-Nov).

NSW Safety Festival Committee report

Select Committee on a Northern Territory

Harm Reduction Strategy for Reducing

Addictive Behaviours (the Committee) was

established to investigate how best to

prevent or mitigate the harms that stem

from addictive behaviours in the NT (May).

NT government announced it will introduce

legislation allowing for the cultivation of

industrial hemp and will explore options

around growing medical cannabis (May).

A new Queensland Drug and Alcohol Court

opened, filling a long-standing gap after the

LNP and Premier Newman axed the

Queensland drug courts in 2012. One key

difference from the earlier drugs courts was

that this is open to people dependent on

alcohol as well as illicit drugs (29 Jan).

Qld Government release new report:

“Changing attitudes, changing lives Options

to reduce stigma and discrimination for

people experiencing problematic alcohol and

other drug use.” This outlined 18 options for

reform regarding systemic issues to address

stigma and discrimination for people

experiencing problematic alcohol and other

drug use, and their families. This included:

A) Exploring options for the

development of evidence-based

mass media campaigns to reduce

stigma and discrimination

experienced by people who use

alcohol and other drugs;

B) Exploring a range of strategies to

enhance the engagement of

individuals and families with a lived

experience of problematic alcohol

and other drug use in policy and

service planning

C) Initiating discussions about the

risks and benefits of

decriminalisation for personal use

and/or possession of illicit drugs;

D) Introducing processes that require

an assessment of potentially

discriminatory provisions as part of

law reform and legislative review

projects;

E) Health care and social services,

across a range of settings, work to

ensure that a welcoming

environment that respects the

dignity and worth of all clients.

The report was informed by independent

research undertaken by the Drug Policy

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HIV education and prevention;

• To implement a real-time

prescription monitoring remote

access portal by March 2019;

• To expand drug diversion; &

• To introduce a drug and alcohol

court (Dec).

released. This noted music festivals

contribute to local economies and are highly

valued by the community, but that current

regulatory approaches are ad hoc and

inconsistent. It also noted the need to

increase targeted harm reduction at such

settings and how policing itself can be a

risk: with some festival attendees hurriedly

consuming drugs to avoid police detection.

Key recommendations:

• Introduce a new category of liquor

licence specific to music festivals;

• Require organisers to develop and

adhere to a Safety Management

Plan for their event, supported by a

two-tiered system of risk, with

variable regulatory conditions,

similar to liquor licence planning;

• Strengthen drug and alcohol harm

reduction for festival goers;

• Develop best practice guidelines for

event organisers on harm reduction

approaches and messages;

• Trial the use of Criminal

Infringement Notices (on-the-spot

fines) instead of Court Attendance

Notices for drug possession

offences at or in the vicinity of

music festivals, so that people

detected for drug possession have

the option to pay the fine and

thereby avoid court and a criminal

conviction; &

• Creation of a new offence that

means people who are dealing

drugs for profit at festivals will be

held responsible for any deaths

they cause (Oct 24).

NSW Special Commission of Inquiry established

into the Drug Ice – chaired by Dan Howard.

Rapidly expanded to look at the use of other ATS

including MDMA (Nov).

Community Protection Legislation

Amendment Bill 2018 adopted. Amended

the Crimes Act 1900 to insert a new offence

at section 25C of supply of drugs (other

than plants) causing death. A person will be

guilty of the new offence if:

• The person supplies a prohibited

drug to another person for financial

or material gain (not social supply

between friends);

• The drug is self-administered by

another person (whether or not the

Modelling Program as well as the views of

people with a lived experience of

problematic alcohol and other drug use,

their families and friends; Queensland

government agencies; non-government

organisations; and consultation with the

Queensland Mental Health and Drug

Advisory Council. (Mar).

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person to whom the drug was

supplied); and

• The self-administration of the drug

causes or substantially causes the

death of that other person.

Maximum penalty: 20 years imprisonment.

Safeguards on the offence are that

proceedings for the offence may only be

instituted by or with the approval of the

Director of Public Prosecutions and it will be

necessary for the prosecution to prove that

the accused knew, or ought reasonably to

have known, that supplying the prohibited

drug would expose another person to a

significant risk of death as a result of the

self-administration of the drug (Nov 21).

Callum Brosnan (aged 19) died from a

suspected drug overdose and 13 people

were hospitalised (three in a critical

condition) post the Knockout Games of

Destiny Dancy Party at Homebush (Dec 8).

NSW Ministry of Health released new

“Guidelines for Music Festival Organisers:

Music Festival Harm Reduction” to support

event organisers to deliver safer music

festivals. A set of interim guidelines were

published in December 2018 to ensure

advice was available during the peak

summer festival period. The interim

guidelines were subsequently revised and

updated in consultation with music festival

organisers, onsite medical providers, venue

managers, peer-based harm reduction

services, NSW Ambulance and experts. The

guidelines combined existing event planning

guidance with harm reduction strategies and

covered topics such as emergency vehicle

access, sanitation, water provision, cooling

measures and sun safety, chill out spaces,

and prevention and management of sexual

assault (Dec).

2017

ACT government gave STA-SAFE permission

to test drugs at the Spilt Milk festival at

Canberra's Commonwealth Park as a harm

reduction measure. The ACT Minister for

Health and Wellbeing Meegan Fitzharris said

the ACT Government had carefully pill

testing schemes in countries like New

Zealand and Canada, and that the evidence

showed there was no evidence that pill

testing increased illicit drug use and instead

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that pill testing had numerous harm

reduction benefits: “Young people would be

informed about what’s really in the their pills

and how potent they are, and it creates an

opportunity to remind them of the risks

before they make the final decision to take a

drug” (Sep 22).

ACT pill testing trial shelved. This was first

attributed to purported problems with

paperwork, but later to Commonwealth

intervention by Canberra Liberal Jeremy

Hanson on the basis of the festival occurring

on Commonwealth land.

2016

Minister for Health Simon Corbell announced

the ACT Government would provide $6m in

additional funding over four years to

strengthen drug treatment capacity. Key

areas included:

• $690,000 annually for additional

treatment capacity through Directions

ACT, Toora Women Inc, Karralika

Programs Inc, Ted Noffs Foundation,

The Salvation Army and Gugan Gulwan

Youth Aboriginal Corporation;

• $375,000 annually to increase the

capacity of drug rehabilitation

programs; and

• $115,000 annually to roll-out the

naloxone program (May).

Justice and Community Safety Legislation

Amendment Act 2016 adopted which

decriminalised peer distribution of sterile

injecting equipment in the Australian Capital

Territory. The Act added an exemption to

the offence of supplying sterile injecting

equipment in section 74 of the Medicines,

Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 2008

(MPTG Act). The exemption is intended to

support the implementation of a peer

distribution program of sterile injecting

equipment for the purpose of preventing the

spread of blood-borne disease (Jun).

ACT government announced that it would

establish a medical cannabis scheme as a

"priority" and "as soon as practicable"

(Aug).

NSW Police Minister Troy Grant said that

music festivals could be shut down if

organisers failed to improve safety after

recent drug overdoses (Jan).

President of the Australian Drug Law Reform

Foundation, Alex Wodak and emergency

medical specialist David Caldicott pledged to

start a privately funded pill testing trial at

music festivals in NSW. They said the trial

would start with or without the blessing of

the government (Feb).

Minister for Justice Troy Grant joined

Minister for Mental Health Pru Goward

hosted a round-table about drug courts

(Feb).

NSW Police and NSW Premier Mike Baird

slammed proposed pill testing trials in NSW

as “ridiculous” and “illegal”: 'We are not

going to be condoning in any way what

illegal drug dealers are doing,' (Feb).

NSW Greens MP Jenny Leong reintroduced

the Law Enforcement (Powers and

Responsibilities) Amendment (Sniffer Dogs—

Repeal of Powers) Bill 2016, arguing that

“the evidence is in and it is clear that this

program, first introduced under the former

Labor Government and continued and

expanded under this Liberal Coalition

Government, is a failure”, and that the

continued use of drug detection dogs is an

infringement of basic civil liberties. (Bill

lapsed in Aug 2016) (Mar).

The Premier announced that the Terminal

Illness Cannabis Scheme would be renamed

the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use

Scheme, and that the scheme was being

reviewed to consider whether it should be

extended to non-terminal patients (May).

BOCSAR data showed considerable regional

variation in drug driving offences across

Roadside drug-driving testing commenced in

in the Northern Territory. Under the new

testing, people who record a positive

reading for driving under the influence of a

drug on a first offence will receive a

maximum penalty of 3 months

imprisonment and/or a fine of $400 which

will escalate for subsequent offences (Feb).

NT Government response to Breaking the

Ice report released: “Tackling Ice in the

Northern Territory.” Key actions included

Reduce supply via:

• Strengthening the Misuse of Drugs Act

to enhance search and seizure powers

on drug trafficking routes

• Monitor sales of chemicals and

equipment to make it harder for people

to manufacture ice

• Taskforce NEMESIS – screening of

major passenger flights and all drug

routes into the NT – targeting of known

drug suppliers/ importers into the NT

Reduce harm via:

• Trial the HOPE (Hawaii’s Opportunity

Probation with Enforcement) strategy,

which applies swift sanctions for

unlawful drug use, to increase

offenders’ ability and motivation to

participate in behavioural change

processes

• Investigate a trial of needle and syringe

vending machines

• Develop an online toolkit to support

families and communities to better

understand and address the problems

caused by ice

Improving the evidence base

• By June 2016, implement an NT Alcohol

and Other Drug research and evaluation

strategy (Feb).

Queensland Health released a discussion

paper: “Medicinal cannabis in Queensland:

Draft Public Health (Medicinal

Cannabis) Bill 2016 - Discussion paper.”

This noted that the Qld proposed laws on

medical cannabis had taken these into

consideration medical cannabis

developments in other jurisdictions (Cth,

NSW and Vic) in drafting the Bill (Mar).

The Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Act

2016 adopted. The act will commence on 1

March 2017.The act creates a new

regulatory framework to allow medicinal

cannabis products to be prescribed and

dispensed to patients in Queensland.

Specifically it provides 2 pathways for

doctors to be authorised to prescribe

medicinal cannabis:

• Patient-class prescribers: specialists

who have an "as-of-right authority" to

prescribe to groups of patients for a

specified condition or symptom with

specified medicinal cannabis products

• Single-patient prescribers: specialists or

general practitioners can apply for

approval to prescribe for a particular

patient.

Medicinal cannabis will only be approved if:

• the patient has tried all of the

conventional treatments available and

these have failed OR

• the conventional treatment causes

intolerable side effects; AND

• the doctor provides clinical evidence

that a specific type of medicinal

cannabis product is effective for the

particular condition or symptoms (Oct).

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NSW, with areas of highest detections being

Richmond-Tweed, Tamworth, Wagga

Wagga, Orange, Newcastle and parts of

Western Sydney (Jun).

First medical cannabis treatments were

provided to NSW children with severe

treatment-resistant epilepsy: using

Epidiolex® - a GW Pharmaceuticals

formulation of pure cannabidiol (CBD). 40

children are expected to take part as part of

the compassionate access scheme (Jun).

The Hon Niall Blair MLC, Minister for Primary

Industries, and the Hon Pru Goward MP,

Minister for Medical Research, announced

that NSW has become the first Australian

state authorised by the Commonwealth

Government to conduct medicinal cannabis

cultivation research. The cultivation

research will be conducted in a new, state-

of-the-art, high security facility (Jul).

NSW Health statutory review of the

Medically Supervised Injecting Centre in

Kings Cross (MSIC) received submissions to

increase number of supervised injecting

centres in NSW and to allow pregnant

women and 16-year-olds to use them. Key

rationales were:

• “Individuals under 18 are excluded from

the part of the MSIC that is used for

injecting.”

• “It is likely that by continuing to

exclude those under 18 from using the

centre, they will inject somewhere else,

in less safe circumstances.

• “Excluding pregnant women from any

treatment facility, including the

injecting room, does not prevent

exposure of the foetus to drugs or

alcohol.”

• “There have been 25 instances in the

last six years where staff at the centre

have denied entry to a woman on the

basis of pregnancy. It is possible that in

turning a pregnant woman away, the

foetus may be at risk of unmanaged

withdrawal from drug dependency

which may cause greater harm” (Jul).

NSW Deputy Premier Troy Grant attacked

the proposal to allow pregnant women and

16-year-olds to access the Medically

Supervised Injecting Centre, arguing it was

a “ridiculous” and “offensive” suggestion

that was tantamount to “touting for

business to meet benchmarks and making

Justice Legislation Amendment (Drug

Offences) Act 2016 adopted. Key changes:

• New offences added of displaying

or supplying a cocaine kit, water

pipe or ice pipe.

• Created an aggravated penalty for

the manufacture or cultivation of a

dangerous drug in the presence of

a child.

• Created an aggravated penalty for

the procurement of a child to

commit a drug offence, with a

maximum penalty of life

imprisonment, irrespective of the

maximum penalty of any particular

offence category.

• Introduction of the requirement

that offenders found guilty of

serious drug offences including,

commercial supply, manufacturing

and cultivation in the presence of a

child serve a minimum 70 per cent

of their sentence in prison.

• Add a provision making the

possession of a firearm,

ammunition or weapons as an

aggravating factor

• Increase penalty units for a number

of offences including increasing the

penalties for supplying a Schedule

2 dangerous drug (new section 5A)

from 85 penalty units to 500

penalty units (May).

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pregnant women and children the target."

He further noted: “not in our lifetime will we

ever allow kids to utilise the heroin-injecting

centre or pregnant women. It's just absolute

nonsense” (Aug).

MSIC Director Marianne Jauncey hit back at

NSW Deputy Premier Troy Grant calling his

comments about ‘touting for business’

offensive and noting that calls to expand

access to pregnant women and youth were

broadly supported by medical and AOD

specialists including the Royal Australasian

College of Physician and National Drug and

Alcohol Research Centre (Aug).

NSW Cross-Party Harm Minimisation

Roundtable held, co-hosted by Mehreen

Faruqi (Greens), Alex Greenwich

(Independent), Jo Haylen (Labor) and

Shayne Mallard (Liberal). The roundtable

brought together politicians, health

professionals, academics, police and drug

users, in the aim of renewing the debate

about harm minimization in NSW. Key

issues discussed included drug checking

services, expanded access to the Kings

Cross supervised injecting facility, and the

decriminalisation of drug possession and

use. The group signed a letter to Premier

Mike Baird and opposition leader Luke Foley

calling for a state wide parliamentary

summit on illicit drug use (Aug 11).

Regulatory changes in NSW allowed doctors

to apply to prescribe a broad range of

cannabis-based medicines for people who

have exhausted standard treatment options.

Applications will be assessed by the

Commonwealth TGA & by a committee of

medical experts on behalf of NSW Health

(Aug).

BOCSAR report, “trends in conditional

discharges”, shows that between 2004 and

2015 there was a large increase in the use

of section 10s (bond without a conviction)

by NSW local courts, for offences including

drug use and possession and drug

manufacture/cultivate (Sep).

2015

Crimes Legislation Amendment Bill 2014,

Part 6.4A passed to prohibit the display for

sale (but not the sale) of 'drug pipes' in the

ACT (Feb).

Minister for Justice, Shane Rattenbury

announced the Government had signed a

Deed of Agreement with the Community and

NSW Leader of the opposition elected by

NSW Labor: Luke Foley (Jan 5).

NSW Opposition leader declares no need for

a medical cannabis trial – should go straight

to prescribing medical cannabis (Jan).

Labor declared the “war on ice” one of its

top priorities and promised it would have an

NT Ice Select Committee established. Terms

of reference included examining:

• The reliability of government data on

Ice use;

• A comprehensive survey of the various

government responses to the abuse of

Ice in the Northern Territory;

Two men died after reportedly smoking

synthetic cannabis in Mackay. The Mackay

emergency department reported this

followed a rise in ED admissions: an average

of one admission per day for synthetic drugs

in the last six months (Jan).

Qld Crime and Corruption Commission

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Public Sector Union (CPSU) regarding a

proposed Needle and Syringe Program

(NSP) for the Alexander Maconochie Centre

(AMC). It set out a process for engaging

staff in the development of an NSP model,

including a joint working group to develop a

model, a staff ballot process to determine

support for any proposed model and a

commitment not to implement a model that

is unable to gain majority support from

voting staff (Apr).

ice summit if re-elected (Jan).

19-year-old Tolga Toksoz died of a

suspected overdose and five others were

hospitalised at Sydney Festival 'A State of

Trance' (Feb).

Medical cannabis campaigner Dan Haslam

passed away (Feb).

Assistant Minister for Health Pru Goward

announced a series of community education

forums ‘breaking the ice in our communities’

delivered by the Australian Drug Foundation

to support local communities dealing with

methamphetamine (Feb).

NSW Greens MP Jenny Leong introduced the

Amendment (Sniffer Dogs—Repeal of

Powers) Bill 2015 that sought to end the use

of drug detection dogs without a warrant in

NSW. (This lapsed in Nov 2015) (May).

Mr Barry and Mrs Joy Lambert made a

donation of $33.7 million to the University of

Sydney to establish the Lambert Initiative,

to explore the potential of the cannabis

plant in treating a range of diseases (Jun).

NSW Centre for Medicinal Cannabis

Research and Innovation (the Centre) was

launched, funded with $12 million by the

NSW Government: to develop understanding

of the benefits and treatment options for

medicinal cannabis. Inaugural director: NSW

Chief Scientist & Engineer, Professor Mary

O’Kane (Jun).

NSW children with severe treatment-

resistant epilepsy will be provided with

compassionate access to a cannabis-based

medicine (Jul).

Regulatory changes in NSW allow doctors to

apply for prescriptions of a broader range of

cannabis-based medicines. Applications

from prescribing doctors will be assessed by

the Commonwealth Therapeutic Goods

Administration, and by a committee of

medical experts on behalf of NSW Health

(Aug).

Nigel Pauljevic (aged 26) died from a

suspected drug overdose at the defqon.1

music festival in Penrith and 8 others were

hospitalised (Sep).

NSW Government signed a Memorandum of

Understanding with GW Pharmaceuticals to

facilitate access to Epidiolex® (a

pharameutical preparation of CBD) for a trial

• Government and community responses

to Ice use in other states and some

assessment of the effectiveness of

these responses in terms of prevention,

education, family and individual support

and treatment modalities; &

• The sources of Ice including cross

border trafficking, local manufacture

and derivation from legal

pharmaceuticals and other legal

precursors (Apr).

Ice Select Committee, Breaking the Ice,

report released. Key conclusions:

• That while 'ice' is an emerging issue of

concern, reports of an 'ice' epidemic

sweeping across the Northern Territory

are misleading.

• While prevalent in the urban and

regional centres of the Territory, there

is no evidence of widespread ‘ice’ use in

remote communities.

• That the abuse of alcohol remains a far

greater problem in the Territory, and

that strategies to address ‘ice’ should

not be implemented at the expense of

alcohol-related harm initiatives.

13 recommendations were issued including

that the NT Government should:

• Ban the display and sale of drug

paraphernalia;

• Mandate real-time online recording of

pseudoephedrine sales at pharmacies to

aid data collection;

• Put more money into residential and

non-residential detox services, with an

emphasis on services for people aged

under 18, and access to prisoners;

• Undertake a trial of waste water

analysis to more accurately assess

prevalence and distribution of ice use.

• Undertake and publish a comprehensive

review and evaluation of drug

diversionary programs in the NT, and

develop a strategy to enhance access to

in the Northern Territory (Nov).

Traffic and other Legislation Amendment Act

2015 adopted enabling powers to conduct

random drug testing to drivers on Northern

Territory roads: for cannabis, ecstasy and

methamphetamines. On introducing the bill

it was noted that “this amendment will bring

the Northern Territory up to date with other

jurisdictions. All other jurisdictions… have

released a new report: “New Synthetic

Drugs - Deceptive and Dangerous.” Report

warned of the expansion of the synthetic

drug market in regional communities in Qld

(likely due to the shortage of traditional

illicit drugs), and the increased involvement

of organised crime groups in distributing

them (Jan).

Change of government with Qld Labor

Government elected under Premier

Annastacia Palaszczuk with the assistance of

an Independent. Key platforms included:

• To reinstate the operation of drug

courts for dealing with drug misuse and

minor related offences

• To establish a separately funded state-

wide Health Promotion Service to

promote health and wellbeing,

expanding the range of early detection

and early intervention services;

• To commence a Commission of Inquiry

into organised crime

• To re-establish the Queensland

Sentencing Advisory Council (Feb).

20 people non-fatally overdosed at the

Brisbane leg of the Stereosonic music

festival, and were taken to Brisbane

emergency departments. Queensland police

reported being staggered at the numbers of

overdoses. The overdoses followed two fatal

overdoses at Stereosonic in Sydney and

Adelaide (Dec).

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with children with paediatric epilepsy (Oct).

Sylvia Choi (aged 25) died at the

Stereosonic music festival in Olympic Park

after taking what police claimed mixed

ecstasy with another substance, possibly

MDMA in water. Another 120 people were

treated for drug-related symptoms (Nov).

NSW Health launched an interactive map of

every public NSP outlet across NSW, type of

facility e.g. staffed NSPs, vending machines

(free or coin operated), disposal bins and

hours of operation and range of equipment

available (Dec).

successfully implemented random roadside

drug testing regimes similar to that which is

proposed in this bill. Research shows that

these regimes are having a positive impact

on road safety, with one Victorian study

finding that the current rates of random

testing are saving 20 lives per year and

reducing total driving fatalities by up to

15%” (Dec).

2014

Interim evaluation of the ACT’s naloxone

program showed that the program had been

a success. For example, it found participants

were able to be trained to administer take-

home naloxone in appropriate circumstances

and that there had been 23 successful

overdose reversals (Feb).

ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher praised

the ACT naloxone program (Feb).

Attorney-General Simon Corbell announced

key changes to the ACT drug trafficking laws

via the Criminal Code (Controlled Drugs)

Legislation Amendment Regulation 2014.

Included first evidence-informed reforms to

ACT drug trafficking thresholds:

• changing the trafficable quantities of

four common drugs that trigger

‘deemed supply’ provisions;

• switching from a pure based to a mixed

based regime for assessing drug

weight; and

• adopting a uniform multiplier between

trafficable, commercial & large

commercial quantities.

The reforms followed advice from the Drug

Policy Modelling Program and were heralded

as better ensuring thresholds target drug

traffickers, rather than drug users, as

‘consistent with a harm minimisation

approach.’ The regulation also added 44

new psychoactive substances to schedule 1,

making possession of each subject to

serious criminal offences. New laws

commenced 17 April 2014 (Mar).

ACT Greens MP, Mr Shane Rattenbury,

released a medical cannabis discussion

paper and exposure draft law for community

feedback: “Drugs of Dependence (Cannabis

Use for Medical Purposes) Amendment Bill

2014”. The bill seeks to enable a person to

The New South Wales Government

supported all of the General Purpose

Standing Committee No.2’s Inquiry into

Drug and Alcohol Treatment

recommendation. In particular noted the

government would:

• closely observe the results of the

naloxone trials in NSW (due for

completion in July 2014) and the ACT to

determine if naloxone should be

expanded in Sydney; &

• encourage NHMRC to prioritise funding

research into naltrexone implants, and

if necessary seek private funds for a

limited local trial (Feb).

BoCSAR report release: “Why is the NSW

prison population growing?” Examined the

cause of a large increase in imprisonment

from late 2012 to early 2014 and concluded

that the key causes were firstly, an increase

in the rate of arrest for crimes involving

aggravated sexual assault, serious assault

resulting in injury, aggravated robbery,

drive while licence disqualified or suspended

and deal/traffic in non-commercial

quantities, and secondly an increase in the

proportion of offenders sentenced to prison,

particularly for offences involving

importation of illicit drugs and aggravated

sexual assault. It noted that this was likely

to reflect a change in policing and/or

sentencing, rather than any change in the

rate of actual offending (Apr).

The Haslam family from Tamworth launched

an online petition to the NSW Premier and

NSW Health Minister calling for the

decriminalization of medicinal cannabis in

NSW. The campaign was motivated to help

their terminally ill son, Daniel Haslam, who

was diagnosed with bowel cancer and found

NT Corrections Officers report that a ban on

smoking in NT prisons has led to a shift to

smuggling tobacco into the prisons, rather

than cannabis or methamphetamine (Jan).

The Northern Territory Government passed

the Misuse of Drugs Amendment Act 2014

on 20 March 2014. This Act allows for police

to charge a person not only with “supply to

a person” but for the aggravated

circumstance of “supplying to a place that

was at the time of the offending an

‘indigenous community’” when it involves a

schedule 2 drug e.g. cannabis or

amphetamine. An averment attesting that a

place is an ‘indigenous community’ at the

relevant time is deemed to be evidence of

that matter stated. The Act increases the

maximum penalty for such actions, from 5

to 9 years imprisonment (Mar).

Queensland Police launch a “New Synthetic

Drugs: Real Damage" campaign, asking

Queensland residents to anonymously report

dealers or people in possession of new

synthetic drugs (Feb).

Police Powers and Responsibilities and Other

Legislation Amendment Act 2014 adopted.

Introduced new laws against “out of control”

events, defined as an event involving 12 or

more persons are gathered together at a

place and 3 or more persons associated with

the event engage in out-of-control conduct

at or near the event. Maximum penalties for

organising or causing an out of control event

include 1 year imprisonment and/or 110

penalty units (Feb).

Queensland Police concluded the Gold

Coast's biggest drug operation in history:

Operation Kilo Fraction, a 19 month

operation. Led to arrest of 152 people,

including 37 alleged members of outlaw

motorcycle gangs (Apr).

Queensland Department of Health conducts

a “Request for Offer” (RFO) for the provision

of NGO out-client AOD services for July

2014 to June 2017 including NGO provided

Queensland Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative

sessions, the coordination of booking

arrangements for these sessions, NGO

Youth AOD out-client counselling and NGO

Community AOD out-client counselling. This

RFO did not include any currently

Government operated services and there

was no increase or decrease in funds

allocated. Current providers of residential

rehabilitation services funded by Queensland

Department of Health were excluded from

the RFO and have been directly procured

(Apr).

Qld Gov released Safe Night Out Strategy.

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apply in writing to the Chief Health Officer

for approval to possess, use and cultivate

cannabis for medical purposes. The

community consultation ran from July until

September (Jul).

A medical marijuana supplier, providing

medical marijuana to a 2.5 year old girl with

a genetic disorder, was raided after a tip off

from Chief Minister Katy Gallagher. The

Chief Minister stated: ''As the law stands at

the moment marijuana is a prohibited

substance and I have responsibilities on me

as Chief Minister under child protection laws,

if nothing else, that that information had to

be passed on” (Jul).

The ACT Legislative Assembly referred the

Greens Exposure Draft of the Drugs of

Dependence (Cannabis Use for Medical

Purposes) Amendment Bill 2014 and related

discussion paper to the Standing Committee

on Health, Ageing, Community and Social

Services for its consideration. The

Committee is required to report back to the

Assembly by the last sitting day in June

2015 (7 Aug).

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher wrote to

federal Health Minister Peter Dutton i,

proposing the National Health and Medical

Research Council support an Australia-wide

clinical trial and the Therapeutic Goods

Administration consider how medical

cannabis could be licensed for use (Aug).

Attorney-General Simon Corbell launched a

new report: “Evaluation of the ACT drug

diversion programs” led by the Drug Policy

Modelling Program and announced a series

of reforms to the ACT police and court

diversion system, including broadening the

methods for payment of SCONs, prioritising

space for AOD assessments of offenders in

the courts and the development of a new

ACT Police and Court Drug Diversion

Strategy. The Attorney General Simon

Corbell and ACT Chief Police Officer Rudi

Lammers both also reinforced the

importance of drug diversion programs and

ensuring they were effectively targeted

(Oct).

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher made a

request for the ACT to be involved in the

NSW clinical trial of medical cannabis (Oct).

benefits from using cannabis (Apr).

NSW Nationals MP Kevin Anderson, member

for Tamworth, announced his intention to

introduce a Private Members Bill to approve

the use of cannabis by terminally ill

patients (May).

The NSW Parliamentary Research Service

issued an issues backgrounder on “Medical

cannabis” (Jun).

Law Enforcement (Powers and

Responsibilities) Amendment Act 2014

adopted. Introduced a number of reforms,

including a requirement to collect data on

the use of drug detection dogs and a review

of police guidelines for searching and

detaining a person during drug dog

operations (Jun).

NSW Premier Mike Baird met the Haslam

family, announcing he was touched by the

plight of Daniel Haslam, and was

‘sympathetic’ to decriminalizing medical

cannabis but wanted issues of supply to be

dealt with (Jul).

Final phase of the Intensive Drug and

Alcohol Treatment Program (IDATP) opened

in NSW prisons with a new 48-bed facility

specifically for female inmates. This offered

drug treatment and education, vocation and

employment programs for female inmates

with a documented history of drug and/or

alcohol abuse and at least 12 months before

their release (Aug).

NSW Premier announced that a clinical trial

for medical cannabis would be established &

that a Working Group had been formed to

set up the trial: due to report back by the

end of 2014 (Sep 16).

Changes to the NSW Bail Act (Bail

Amendment Bill 2014) mean that alleged

offenders, including anyone charged with

the manufacture or supply of commercial

quantities of a prohibited drug, will be

refused bail, unless they ‘show cause’ as to

why they should be released (Sep).

NSW Premier opened inaugural medical

cannabis symposium in Tamworth (Nov).

19-year-old woman, Georgina Bartter, died

of a suspected ecstasy overdose, at

Harbourlife dance music festival (Nov).

New report released: “Responding to alcohol

and drug related harms in NSW: Mapping

the NSW non-government alcohol and other

Included actions to:

• Introduce tougher penalties for those

who are affected by alcohol or drugs

and engage in anti-social and violent

behaviour in and around licensed

venues and in public and

• Expand police powers e.g. for drug

operations involving tactical covert and

overt strategies and drug detection

dogs; and mandatory drug and alcohol

testing for people charged with serious

offences and trial of “sober safe centre”

in Brisbane operated by Police

• Mandatory AOD Counselling session as

part of bail conditions for anyone

charged with violence offences while

intoxicated

• Safe Night Out Strategy required some

legislative amendments that have been

introduced to Parliament as the Safe

Night Out Legislation Amendment Bill

(Jun).

Safe Night Out Legislation Amendment Bill

adopted as part of the Safe Night Out

Strategy including a new offence of

‘Unlawful striking causing death’ punishable

by a maximum penalty of life imprisonment

with the offender required to serve 80% of

sentence before applying for parole. The

legislation also included a change to

sentencing rules to no longer allow being

intoxicated as a reason to reduce a person’s

sentence. A change to the bail act that

made it mandatory for all people charged

with grievous bodily harm, common assault,

affray or assault police must complete a

“Drug and Alcohol Assessment and Referral

Course” while on bail. The legislation also

allowed for a trial of “Sober Safe Centres”

where a person who is deemed by Police to

be intoxicated and at risk of harming

themselves or others or causing a public

nuisance, they can be detained at a Sober

Safe Centre for up to 8 hours. Also included

in this bill was the change of classification

for Steroids to be a “dangerous drug” thus

increasing penalty for possession, trafficking

and production. The Bill was passed in

August 2014 with all activities operational

by the end of December.

Queensland Government releases finalised

Queensland Plan including a goal that

Queenslanders “will be physically and

mentally healthy” with success being “We

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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drugs sector.” The report was commissioned

by NADA and NSW Ministry of Health, as a

prelude to the Partnerships for Health NGO

reform program. Key findings:

• 50% of organisations indicated their

operating budget was $1M or less;

• Funding models were complex: with

most having multiple funders;

• Clients were becoming more complex;

• Funding bodies were expecting more

from organisations, e.g. performance

reporting & accreditation; &

• Some organisations had narrowed their

client entry criteria to clients with less

complex need because they could not

afford salary levels of skilled staff.

Recommendations included:

• Funds provided at levels adequate to

cover the real costs of service

provision; &

• Compliance requirements that will

support efficient, quality, evidence-

based services (Nov).

Evaluation of the Overdose Prevention &

Emergency Naloxone (OPEN) Project, that

operated through the Kirketon Road Centre

and Langton Centre released. Showed that

between July 2012 and March 2014, 83

people at risk of opioid overdose attended

the training and were provided take home

naloxone. Interviews with 35 participants six

months post training showed:

• All but one of the participants felt they

had learned new things and were more

confident responding to an overdose

situation immediately post training.

Participants also felt more informed

(24% increasing to 95%) and more

confident to inject naloxone (51%

increasing to 96%).

• At least 30 opioid overdose reversals

were reported by 18 of the 35

participants who provided follow-up

interviews. There were no deaths

reported in any of the reversed

overdoses (Nov).

NSW Greens MP David Shoebridge launches

a “sniff off: no more drug dogs” campaign,

aimed at ending the use of drug detection

dogs without a warrant in public spaces in

NSW. The campaign included a facebook

site that reports the whereabouts of drug

detection dogs in NSW (Nov).

NSW Premier announced three Government-

have reduced rates of lifestyle diseases

caused by lack of exercise, poor diet,

alcohol, smoking and drug abuse” (Aug).

Queensland Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

Strategic Plan 2014-2019 released. Key

objectives include:

• Reduced stigma and discrimination;

• Reduced avoidable harm; &

• That people living with mental health

difficulties or issues related to

substance use have 1) lives with

purpose, 2) better physical and oral

health and live longer and 3) positive

experiences of their support, care and

treatment (Sep).

A joint taskforce between Queensland Police

and Queensland Corrections leads to arrest

of 19 people alleged to be involved in

trafficking drugs into and outside

Queensland prisons (Oct).

A two-year joint investigation between the

Queensland Crime and Corruption

Commission and Qld Police Service into drug

trafficking and outlaw motorcycle gangs

closed following the arrest of 62 people, for

430 offences, and seizure of an estimated

$2.9 million of drugs, predominantly

methamphetamine (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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funded trials of medical cannabis and

cannabis products to explore the role of

cannabis and cannabis products in providing

relief for patients with a range of debilitating

or terminal illnesses (including severe

paediatric epilsepsy, chemotherapy induces

nausea and vomiting). The trials are

expected to commence in 2016. Also

released was:

• Guidelines for medical practitioners

• A Terminal Illness Cannabis

Scheme to enable NSW Police to

show discretion to not enforce the

law against registered adults and

carers (Dec).

2013

Second phase of ACT naloxone program

commenced. Included provision of naloxone

to at-risk detainees on release by Justice

Health (Feb).

Drug Policies and Services Framework for

the Alexander Maconochie Centre 2013 –

2015 adopted. Employed demand, harm and

supply reduction strategies and performance

measures including number of detainees

accessing of ATOD services, number of

overdoses and needle-stick injuries, inmate

satisfaction with ATOD services and

proportion of detainees receiving a Justice

Health discharge plan on release (Aug).

ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher released

final status report on the Government’s

response to the Burnet Report. Noted that

46 recommendations from Burnet report

had been fully or partially completed at the

Alexander Maconochie Centre, but that:

• a trial needle and syringe program

could not occur until union agreement

was reached; &

• the merit and feasibility of providing a

regulated tattooing program was still

being considered (Oct).

Final Strategic Framework for the

Management of Blood-Borne viruses in the

Alexander Maconochie Centre adopted.

Included provision of regulated access to

sterile injecting equipment subject to union

agreement (Oct).

New South Wales State Attorney-General

Greg Smith opened the state's third drug

court, in central Sydney (Feb).

Nineteen individuals, including the national

president of the Hells Angels, the vice

president of the Rebels and other high-

ranking members of the Comancheros

motorcycle gang were arrested following a

21-month investigation into the supply of

drugs, guns and explosives to organised

crime groups within NSW. The operation,

known as Strike Force Alistair, was led by

the NSW Police Force Organised Crime

Squad and the NSW Crime Commission,

with assistance from the Gangs Squad and

is one of the biggest operations in the

state’s history. Also seized were pistols,

riffles, ammunition, counterfeit cash, 2

clandestine laboratories and an estimated

$6 million worth of drugs (Mar).

Intoxicated Persons (Sobering Up Centres

Trial) Act 2013 No 15 adopted. Introduced a

trial of sobering up centres for people

intoxicated due to alcohol or drugs. Included

1) a compulsory model run by NSW police

that detains people for 4-8 hours at costs;

and 2) a voluntary model run by NGOs (Apr

3).

NSW Parliament General Purpose Standing

Committee No. 4 released report on their

inquiry into the use of cannabis for medical

purposes. Key recommendations:

• That the Minister for Health write to the

Commonwealth Minister for Health and

Ageing, expressing in principal support

for the expansion of access to approved

cannabis pharmacotherapies

• That the NSW Government introduce an

amendment to the Drug Misuse and

The Northern Territory Government

announced that it was getting hard on drugs

in response to research that there has been

significant increase in the manufacture and

distribution of methamphetamine across the

nation. The Misuse of Drugs Amendment

(Methamphetamine) Act 2013 was

introduced and received assent on 19

October 2013. The Act subsequently

commenced to have effect from 11

November 2013. This amendment removed

methamphetamine from schedule 2 of the

Act and placed it in schedule 1. This

increased penalties for the possession or

supply of trafficable and commercial

quantities of the drug. For example the

maximum penalty for trafficable quantities

(2.0g or more) increased from 5 years

imprisonment to 14 years or more

(dependent on the nature of the offence)

(Oct).

The Newman Government released their six

month action plan. Actions included:

• Establishment of the Queensland Mental

Health Commission;

• Reform Queensland Health’s grants and

service delivery contracts;

• Commence a review to streamline

contracts with nongovernment

organisations (NGOs) reducing the

number of individual contracts;

• Release the government’s youth

strategy (Jan).

Newman Government released Blueprint for

better healthcare in Queensland (Feb).

Qld Police closed their most extensive drug

investigation in recent years. Operations

Juliet Cheshire and Juliet Cheshire 2

spanned a total of 18 months and sought to

disrupt trafficking of methylamphetamine,

MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, and cannabis into

the Fortitude Valley entertainment precinct.

A total of 76 people were charged with 283

offences including 32 offences of trafficking

dangerous drugs, 105 charges of supply

dangerous drugs and 16 charges of major

possession. Approximately $2.5 million

worth of drugs and several firearms were

also seized (Feb).

Drugs Misuse Amendment Regulation (No 1)

2013 adopted. Added 35 new synthetic

drugs, including NBOMe, MDPV, 4-MEC,

MDAI & 2-DPMP, to Schedule 2 of the Drug

Misuse Act (Apr).

Criminal Proceeds Confiscation (Unexplained

Wealth and Serious Drug Offender

Confiscation Order) Amendment Act 2013

adopted. This:

• introduced a scheme for recovering

‘unexplained wealth’;

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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Trafficking Act 1985 to add a complete

defence to the use and possession of

cannabis, so as to cover the authorised

medical use of cannabis by patients

with terminal illness

• That the NSW Ministry of Health and

Department of Attorney General and

Justice give further and detailed

consideration to the issues surrounding

lawful supply of crude cannabis

products for medical purposes (May).

Sixth report on Drug Use in the Inmate

Population (DUIP) released. Showed a

steady and significant decline in use of

drugs in NSW prisons, from 62% in 2001-02

to 37% in 2009-10. This was much greater

than the decline in rates of pre-prison drug

use (at 84% & 73% respectively in 2001-02

and 2009-10) (Jun).

17-year old Henry Kwan died after taking

NBOME (a synthetic LSD-like drug) and

jumping off a third floor balcony - thinking

he could fly (Jun 6).

NSW Government introduced a temporary

ban on 19 synthetic drugs (Jun 9).

Highlighted that drug used by Henry Kwan –

NBOMe – was not on temporary banned list

(Jun 16).

NSW Government’s General Purpose

Standing Committee No.2’s Inquiry into

Drug and Alcohol Treatment issued it’s final

report. Key recommendations:

• Consider expanding the Drug Court

program beyond Sydney & Hunter;

• Consider expanding the availability of

naloxone;

• Increase funds to Life Education;

• Match drug treatment funds to

treatment demand using the Drug and

Alcohol-Clinical Care and Prevention

Planning Model; &

• That if naltrexone implants are

approved for use by the Therapeutic

Goods Administration, that the NSW

Government fund a randomised control

trial of naltrexone implants (Aug).

Drugs and Poisons Legislation Amendment

(New Psychoactive and Other Substances)

Act 2013 adopted. Prohibited the

manufacture, supply, sale or advertising of

all psychoactive substances (subject to

appropriate exemptions) – maximum

penalty of $2,200 or two years

• provide a reverse onus of proof, so any

person who accumulated wealth that

does not seem commensurate with

his/her lifestyle and livelihood would

bear the onus of proving that the

wealth was legitimately acquired; and

• introduced serious drug offender

confiscation orders, enabling forfeiture

of all property whether obtained legally

or illegally unless deemed as ‘protected

property’ (May).

Newman Government review released of

Youth Justice Strategy (Jun).

Announcement of the inaugural QLD Mental

Health Commissioner Dr Lesley van

Schoubroeck to commence 1 July 2013. A

whole-of-government strategic plan for

Mental Health and AOD is to be developed

within 12 months (Jul).

Queensland police recruit real estate agents

to help them find and dismantle clandestine

drug laboratories: using a training program

that teaches property managers how to spot

laboratories and collect evidence during

inspections.

Qld Government released: “The Queensland

Plan: a 30-year vision for Queensland”,

outlining draft strategic vision for Qld.

Included key objective of reducing rates of

lifestyle diseases caused by lack of exercise,

poor diet, alcohol, smoking and drug abuse

(Dec).

Queensland Needle and Syringe Program

(QNSP) data indicate a continual increase

(approx. 28% per year) in the number of

people who reported obtaining needles and

syringes to inject ‘ice’: from 7,921 in 2009

to 10,132 in 2011 13,028 in 2012 (Jul).

Consultation occurred on the Queensland

Mental Health and Drug Strategic Plan:

including an AOD specific forum organised

by QNADA (Sep).

Criminal Law and Other Legislation

Amendment Act 2013 adopted. Introduced

new requirement that all drug traffickers

serve at least 80% of their term of

imprisonment before being eligible for

parole and increased maximum penalty for

aggravated supply e.g. drug trafficking to

anyone aged 16 or under (from 25 years to

life imprisonment) (Aug).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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imprisonment. This supplemented existing

provisions to ban use and trafficking of

specific named ‘prohibited drugs’ through

Schedule 1 of the Drug Misuse and

Trafficking Act and their analogues. The Act

also removed requirement for analogues of

prohibited drugs to have psychotropic

properties (Sep 24).

Drug Misuse and Trafficking Amendment

(Prohibited Substances) Regulation 2013

added 45 new psychoactive substances

(including synthetic cannabinoids, 2C-X and

NBOMe) to the list of prohibited drugs in the

Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act; along with

threshold quantities for trafficable,

commercial and large commercial trafficking

offences (Sep).

James Munro (aged 23) died of a suspected

ecstasy overdose at the Defqon.1 festival

(Sep).

New NDARC research released:

"Engagement with criminal justice system

among opioid-dependent people." Examined

all entrants to opioid substitution therapy

(OST) for opioid dependence in NSW

between 1985 and 2010 and their criminal

justice contact and showed that a minority

of opioid-dependent people are responsible

for most CJS contact: 67.4% of CJS charges

due to 20.8% cohort (Sep)

NSW cannabis clinic expanded to include

synthetic cannabinoid users (Oct).

NSW Government released response to the

inquiry on the use of cannabis for medical

purposes. They supported recommendation

one; that they write to the Commonwealth

Minister for Health and Ageing, expressing

in principal support for the expansion of

access to approved cannabis

pharmacotherapies, but rejected all other

recommendations, including considering

lawful supply of crude cannabis products for

medical purposes. The government argued

that it “does not support the use of

unregulated crude cannabis products for

medical purposes as the potency and safety

cannot be guaranteed” and that this

decision would not prevent access to

appropriate medical treatment for any

patient in NSW” (Nov).

NSW health authorities introduce first

Australian pop-up rapid testing site to

combat rise in HIV (Nov).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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2012

ACT Greens issued a bill for reform of the

infringement system relating to road traffic

offences: Road Transport (General)

(Infringement Notices) Amendment Bill

2012 (Feb).

ATODA released a discussion paper calling

for the extension of reforms of the ACT

Infringement Scheme from roadside drug to

other infringement schemes, including the

Simple Cannabis Offence Notice scheme

(Mar).

Government response to the report, Human

Rights ACT 2004 (ACT): The First Five Years

of Operation, tabled. Noted the positive

achievements and desire to build upon this

(Mar).

ACT Infringements System Reform

introduced for road traffic offences: (1)

Options to pay fines through installments;

(2) A system of community work and social

development programs, which people on low

income or with special circumstances can

undertake in lieu of payments; (3) Options

to waive fines in special circumstances

(May).

ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher released

the Draft Strategic Framework for the

Management of Blood-Borne Viruses in the

Alexander Maconochie Centre 2012-2014.

Strategies included:

• A proposal for a trial needle and syringe

program in the Alexander Maconochie

Centre – on a one-for-one syringe basis.

The trial will constitute the first

Australian prison-based NSP.

• That detainees have screening and

vaccinations for all those coming into the

AMC.

• That detainees within the AMC have

ready access to full-strength household

bleach and information and education

about how to prevent and manage BBVs

(Aug).

High level of media debate about the

proposed NSP at the AMC (Aug).

ACT Comorbidity (Mental Health and

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Problems)

Strategy 2012-2014 released (Aug).

As part of 2012-13 budget the ACT

Government announced the establishment

of a Throughcare Unit to better support

prison detainees returning to the community

and co-ordinate their service delivery and

NSW Legislative Assembly Legal Affairs

Committee launched: “Inquiry into law

reform issues regarding synthetic drugs.”

The inquiry sought to examine law reform

issues regarding the prohibition of synthetic

drugs and to consider the adequacy of

current NSW legislation. Submissions were

received from Feb-Apr (Feb 16).

First phase of the Intensive Drug and

Alcohol Treatment Program (IDATP) in NSW

prisons opened, with space for 62 male

inmates (Feb).

Former NSW Health Minister, John Della

Bosca, said the ‘war on drugs’ has failed, &

called for another drug summit to reassess

Australia’s approach to drug policy (Apr).

The NSW Youth Drug and Alcohol Court was

axed. NSW Attorney General, Greg Smith

SC, said the program was too expensive.

The closure occurred without consultation

(Jul 1).

The NSW Attorney General, Greg Smith SC,

tabled the NSW Law Reform Commission’s

report on the Bail Act. Of note, the report

outlined there had been many reversals of

the presumption of bail for drug trafficking

offences. Recommendations of the report:

• A new Bail Act should be drafted in plain

English language, so as to be readily

understandable, and with a clear and

logical structure;

• The scheme of presumptions,

exceptions and exceptional

circumstances in the current legislation

should be replaced with a uniform

presumption in favour of release

applicable to all cases except those

covered by an entitlement to release &

appeal.

• The authority must consider: (a) The

entitlement of every person in a free

society to liberty and (b) The

presumption of innocence.

• In decisions on bail, a person must not

be detained unless a custodial sentence

is likely (Jun).

NSW drug education unit abolished (Jun).

The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government

announced in the 2012-13 Budget they will

expand prisoner rehabilitation programs

including through the new Intensive Drug

and Alcohol Treatment program (Jun).

The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government

The Northern Territory Council of Social

Service (NTCOSS) announced that the NT

Government had agreed to fund a peak AOD

body for the NT: the Alcohol and Other

Drugs Association of the Northern Territory

(AADANT) (Jan 31).

Justice (Corrections) and Other Legislation

Amendment Act 2011 entered into

operation. This introduced two new

sentencing options: Community Custody

and Community-Based Orders. This gave

the Courts the power to order offenders into

rehabilitation, education and training, and

community work programs as an alternative

to imprisonment (Feb).

The NT adopted into law the new Poisons

Standard (SUSMP) under the Therapeutic

Goods Act 1989, including the Schedule 9

prohibition of synthetic cannabinomimetrics:

Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic Goods

Act 2012 (Apr).

NT Country Liberal Party elected, under

Chief Minister Terry Mills (after 11 years of

labor rule). Key policy platforms included:

• Mandatory drug testing for anybody

arrested for an assault on or about a

licensed premise;

• Tougher bail conditions for any crime

that poses a risk to the general public;

• Tougher penalties for offenders who

breach bail (Aug 27).

The Australian Medical Association's

Northern Territory branch says it would

consider supporting the decriminalisation of

a range of drugs (Sep).

The Alcohol and Other Drugs Association of

the Northern Territory (AADANT) became an

incorporated body and held their first Policy

Forum for the AOD Sector (Nov 30).

NT Mini-Budget 2012-2013 released.

Revealed intent to abolish the Smart Court

and the Alcohol and other Drug Tribunal (as

a means of saving funds) (Dec).

NT Police seized crystal methamphetamine,

steroids and 362 tablets containing PMMA

and arrested three males in connection with

a suspected drug syndicate that was

sourcing drugs from a Sydney-based Middle

Eastern crime group and selling them out of

a Darwin hotel room. The PMMA tablets

were being marketed as ‘ecstasy’ (Dec).

The Northern Territory announced their

First Report of the Queensland

Mental Health Commission Advisory

Committee released: on formation of a

mental health commission. (NB. Model was

rejected by Newman government) (Jan).

“Inquiry into severe substance

dependence: a model for involuntary

detoxification and rehabilitation” lapsed due

to likely dissolution (Feb).

Queensland Liberal National Party (LNP)

elected, under Premier Campbell Newman.

Key policy platforms included:

• Establish a permanent major crime

squad, based on the Gold Coast:

• Take a hardline approach to drug

traffickers & dealers who target children

with tough sentencing laws;

• Introduce tough new unexplained

wealth and drug trafficker declarations;

• Drug traffickers to serve at least 80%

of their sentence before being eligible

for parole

• Establish a Queensland Mental Health

Commission (QMHC) (Mar 24).

Passage of legislation for the establishment

of the Queensland Mental Health

Commission (QMHC) (March 2013) with

commencement 1 July 2013.

The Federal Government announced that a

Task Force would be established to examine

organised crime on the Brisbane waterfront.

This will begin in early 2013 (May).

A heroin distribution network operating in

south-east Queensland, with alleged links to

Balkan crime groups, was detected following

an 18-month covert investigation

codenamed Operation Storm. The

investigation was conducted by the Crime

and Misconduct Commission (CMC),

Queensland Police Service, New South

Wales Drug Squad and the Australian

Federal Police said the network has operated

for six years (2006-2012) (May).

The Crime and Misconduct Commission’s

Proceeds of Crime team restrained the

assets of the purported leader of the heroin

distribution network (arrested through

Operation Storm). The order covered assets

including 2 properties, 5 cars and a boat:

worth an estimated $216,195 (Aug).

Queensland State Budget 2012-2013

released. Outlined a number of areas of

major cuts, including:

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case management. A total of $1.12 million

has been provided over two years (Jun).

The ACT Labor Party and the ACT Greens

(Mr Shane Rattenbury MLA) signed a

parliamentary agreement that they would

“establish a needle and syringe exchange

program at the AMC medical centre.” This

was one of the conditions made in order to

form a minority government, following the

2012 ACT Election (Nov 2).

The Human Rights Amendment Bill 2012

was adopted, adding section 27A Right to

education to the act. This entered into force

on 1 Jan 2013 (Aug).

Ms Katy Gallagher MLA, ACT Chief Minister

and Minister for Health tabled the report

“The Review of the Need to Expand Drug

and Alcohol Rehabilitation Services in the

ACT, 2012” and the Health Directorate

response to the report in the ACT Legislative

Assembly. Key conclusions from the report:

• There is no strong evidence of a need

to increase the number of residential

rehabilitation beds in the ACT;

• There is evidence of barriers for many

people to accessing treatment and

support services, including residential

rehabilitation programs, which need to

be removed.

Recommendations included:

• Providing referrers, prospective clients

and family members / friends of those

with alcohol, tobacco and other drug

(ATOD) problems, with more detailed

information about the eligibility

criteria, structure and content of

programs and expectations of those

who participate in programs

• Improve intake, transition and

aftercare support (Aug).

announced that the Grafton Correctional

Centre, a minimum and medium security

prison on the far north coast of NSW, will be

downsized (from 243 to 64 inmates) to

become a transient and remand centre

(Jun).

Over-dose Prevention Education and

Naloxone (OPEN) project commenced in

Sydney: Kirketon Road Centre. The goal was

to reduce mortality and morbidity amongst

PWID, particularly by educating PWID and

their carers about opioid overdose

prevention and management and

prescribing take-home naloxone (Jun).

Mental Health Act Review Discussion Paper

released with submissions invited until Dec

2012 (Sep).

Law Enforcement (Powers and

Responsibilities) Amendment (Kings

Cross and Railways Drug Detection)

Bill 2012 adopted. This authorised the use

by police officers of dogs for general

drug detection (without warrant) at any

public place in the Kings Cross precinct &

extended powers to use dogs across the

entire railway network (Oct 29).

Inquiry commenced by a Legislative Council

General Purpose Standing Committee into

“Drug and alcohol treatment”: evaluating

current polices with a particular focus on

deterrence, treatment and rehabilitation

(Nov).

Inquiry commenced by a Legislative Council

General Purpose Standing Committee into

“The use of cannabis for medical purposes”.

Key issues include the efficacy and safety of

using cannabis for medical purposes; if and

how cannabis should be supplied for medical

use; the legal implications and issues and

any other related matters. A total of 122

submissions were received. The inquiry is

due to report in May 2013 (Nov).

NSW HIV Strategy 2012-2015 adopted. As

part of this the NSW Coalition Government

committed to expand Needle and Syringe

Program (NSP) access. Key strategies:

• more outlets for NSP distribution

• more automatic dispensing machines

that allow 24hr access &

• permitting people who obtain equipment

from NSP outlets to distribute that

equipment to peers without criminal

penalties (Dec).

Alcohol and other drug Court Tribunal would

be cut (Dec).

• Loss of 14,000 FTE positions from the

public service.

• Queensland Health’s Grant program

cuts of $120 million over four years.

• Court Diversion and Referrals program

cuts of $5.015 million in 2012 – 2013

and $10.226 million in 2013 – 2014.

Of particular note Premier Newman

announced that post ten years of operation

the Queensland drug courts would no longer

be funded (the Murri and special

circumstances courts were also de-funded)

(Sep).

QNADA released a new Policy Position –

“The role of AOD in the Qld Mental Health

Commission.” This supported the Newman

Government’s proposed establishment of a

Queensland Mental Health Commission

(QMHC). But, while arguing inclusion of AOD

within QMHC would be beneficial, it

advocated for specialist AOD input:

• Due to the specialist nature of AOD

treatment services and its’ unique

policy framework, ongoing reform of the

sector from within the QMHC will be

best achieved by the assigning of

responsibility and leadership to a

designated position, such as a Deputy

Commissioner for AOD (Sep).

Queensland Health contracted Siggins Miller

to conduct “Queensland Alcohol and Other

Drugs Residential Service Sector Mapping

and Review Project.”

QNADA released a position paper on

“recovery and harm minimisation.” This

argues that in the Australian context the

primary goal of treatment and prevention

should remain harm minimisation (Sep).

Queensland Government released the

discussion paper: “Establishment of the

Queensland Mental Health Commission.”

This outlined the proposed model for the

QMHC (with one month for feedback) (Oct).

A new Mental Health Alcohol and Other

Drugs Branch located within the Health

Services and Clinical Innovation Division

came into existence. Responsibility for the

AOD agenda, which had rested in one unit

(the Alcohol and Drug Treatment Strategy

Unit), was split across this and another

branch within the Health Services and

Clinical Innovation Division, under the

rationale of better integrating the AOD

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agenda across the division. Accordingly

responsibility is spilt across the branches for

Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs and

the Chief Health Officer in 4 separate teams:

• Lead responsibility for ongoing AOD

policy and AODS treatment is delivered

by the Partnerships and Programs Team

(Planning and Partnerships Unit, Mental

Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Branch)

• AOD Prevention is delivered by the

Intergovernmental Partnership Team

(Preventive Health Unit, Chief Health

Officer Branch)

• Opioid treatment and monitoring is

delivered by the Medicines, Regulation

and Quality Team (Health Protection

Unit, Chief Health Officer Branch)

• Needle Syringe Programs are delivered

by the Blood Borne Virus and Sexually

Transmitted Infection team

(Communicable Diseases Unit, Chief

Health Officer Branch) (Oct).

Criminal Law Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2012

introduced outlining:

• Introduction of a new ‘aggravated

supply’ offence in the Drugs Misuse Act

1986 for drug traffickers who target

children. Offenders are liable to a max

penalty of life imprisonment for a

schedule 1 drug and 25 yrs for a

schedule 2 drug and

• The conditions for the cessation of the

Queensland’s Drug Court by 30 June

2013 and transitional arrangements. A

gradual approach to the termination of

the Drug Court has been adopted to

allow offenders, currently subject to an

intensive drug rehabilitation order

under the Drug Court Act 2000, time to

complete their order (Nov).

Queensland Mental Health Commission Bill

2012 tabled, to establish:

• a Mental Health Commission and

• a Mental Health Alcohol and Other

Drugs Advisory Council (Nov).

Youth Justice (Boot Camp Orders) and Other

Legislation Amendment Act 2012 passed

(Nov).

Queensland Crime and Misconduct

Commission released a new report: ‘Illicit

drug markets in Queensland.’ This noted the

MDMA market is showing signs of a

resurgence and is continuing to attract

organised crime (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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QLD Drug Action Plan ceased – with new

strategic planning pending establishment of

the QMHC (Dec).

2011

The Minister for Community Services

released a discussion paper “Towards a

diversionary framework for the ACT”. This

acknowledged the need for a much more

whole of government approach to diversion

(Feb).

Knowledge Consulting report released:

“Report of the Independent Review of

Operations at the Alexander Maconochie

Centre.” Report examined the first 12

months of operation and noted concerns

about a lack of coordination of some drug

policies and procedures (Mar).

New report released: “Health Status of

Young People in the ACT”. Report showed

the use of illicit substances by young people

decreased. For example, lifetime use

amongst those aged 12-17 decreased from

20.3% in 2005 to 14.8% in 2008,

continuing the downward trend since 1996

(37.5%). Use of at least one substance in

the last week also declined: from 4.8% in

2005 to 3.7% in 2008 (Apr).

Burnet report (2010-2011) tabled in the ACT

Legislative Assembly: “External component

of the evaluation of drug policies and

services and their subsequent effects on

prisoners and staff within the Alexander

Maconochie Centre.” Key findings were:

• High prevalence of lifetime and current

illicit drug use at the AMC and evidence

of trafficking of drugs into the prison.

• Reports of at least one case of in-prison

transmission of HCV within the new

AMC.

• Several positive program activities at

the AMC went some way to fulfilling

drug policy objectives. However, these

constituted ‘pockets of effectiveness.’

Report made 69 recommendations inc:

• Development of a specific drug policy

framework for the AMC;

• Consultations with relevant

stakeholders to identify feasibility of a

trail NSP at the AMC & appropriate

models for its delivery;

• Exploration of a model for provision of

naloxone to prisoners at release;

• Swifter pharmacotherapy provision:

<48 hours after requesting induction

(Apr).

NSW Premier Kristina Keneally opened the

state's second Drug Court in Toronto, citing

the success of the Paramatta drug court. A

third drug court was promised if Labor won

re-election (Mar).

New Liberal Premier Barry O Farrell elected

(28 Mar).

New report released by the NSW Auditor-

General: “Effectiveness of cautioning for

Minor Cannabis Offences”. Key conclusions:

• 39,099 people cautioned.

• Cautioned people reoffended less than

those charged.

Yet:

• Youth were less likely to be cautioned in

2009-10 than 2000-01

• Huge variation in caution rates between

police commands e.g. 74% in Eastern

suburbs vs. 26% in Parramatta.

Recommended reviewing barriers to

cautioning, particularly for young offenders

(Apr).

New crime squad will be established on

Sydney Harbour to target drug trafficking

and organized criminal through NSW ports.

A key motivator was declining levels of

inspections by Australian Customs and

Border Control: just 3.6% of shipping

containers over the last 12 months.

Operation Polaris, led by Detective

Superintendent Peter McErlain will comprise

25 NSW Police officers, 15 AFP agents, and

operatives from the NSW and Australian

Crime Commissions (May).

Mental Health Minister Kevin Humphries

made headlines when he was photographed

with a synthetic cannabinoid, Kronic, on

Oxford Street: “Why is this MP buying a bag

of weed?” The Minister highlighted concerns

the product could have a potency up to 100

times greater than marijuana and cause

hallucinations and psychosis (14 Jun).

NSW Government announced ban on the

sale and use of synthetic cannabinoids

including Kronic, Spice, Kaos Voodoo,

Mango and Northern Lights. From 8 July

2011 cannabinoids will be listed under

Schedule 1 of the Drug Misuse and

Trafficking Act 1985 (along with cannabis

and heroin etc) and require retailers and

The Northern Territory Council of Social

Services (NTCOSS) initiated moves to

establish a formal AOD Peak for the

Northern Territory: the Alcohol and Other

Drugs Association of the Northern Territory

(AADANT).

NT Drug Summit: “Forging the Future –

Practical Responses to Contemporary

Issues” (Apr 13).

A large two day police operation in the aim

of deterring drug and alcohol distribution to

the Northern Territory resulted in the

seizure of $2385 in cash and 367 grams of

cannabis. Operation revolved around 48 hr

road blocks on both Larapinta Drive and the

Tanami Highway and was undertaken by the

Alice Springs Substance Abuse Intelligence

Desk, Drug Intelligence Unit and Dog

Operations Unit, members of the Darwin

Remote Community Drug Desk and

Hermannsburg Police and Southern Traffic

operations (May).

Regulations amending the Misuse of Drugs

Act banned a total of 18 substances used to

manufacture synthetic cannabis (including

Kronic) (12 Aug)

A further five substances were added to the

banned list of synthetic cannabis (31 Aug).

NT Attorney General released the “Review of

the Northern Territory Youth Justice

System.” Key findings:

• NT youth offending is trending upwards

in a number of areas

• The no. of young people involved in the

justice system is small but is

increasing.

• Young people in detention are more

likely to be on remand than serving

sentences

Key recommendations included:

• Increase investment in police diversion,

and expand diversion programs

• Establish a new unit with responsibility

for administering all youth justice

system services

• Develop a new youth justice strategy

(Oct).

Eight years post freezing the assets of

Charles Edward Cannon, a convicted

methamphetamine trafficker, the Qld

Supreme Court made a landmark proceeds

of crime ruling: State of Qld v Cannon

[2011] QSC 075 (03/1166) Brisb Applegarth

J 8/04/2011. The ruling marked the end of

the state’s longest and largest proceeds of

crime battle and meant that Cannon, who it

was alleged had earned $27 million through

his methamphetamine business, was

ordered to pay back $4.2 million in crime

proceeds to the Qld government (Apr).

Qld Government announced intention to put

forward a new bill: ‘Criminal Law

Amendment Bill 2011’ to ban 15 synthetic

cannabinoids and to amend the Drugs

Misuse Act 1986 to revise the definition of

banned ‘analogues’. The new law proposes

to address the rise of new ‘legal’ substances

that mimic known illicit substances, and

eliminate the current requirement that an

analogue is only banned when there is proof

that the new substance has a similar

chemical structure and effect to scheduled

dangerous drugs. Under the proposal any

substance that is ‘intended’ to have a

substantially similar pharmacological effect

as known illicit drugs will be banned. The

proposed bill will be subject to consultation

by stakeholders including the Sentencing

Advisory Committee (Jun).

Queensland Drug Action Plan 2011-2012

released. Plan seeks to reduce cannabis use

and heavy drinking by 11% by 2012 (Jun).

Crime and Misconduct Commission issue a

‘schoolies alert’ about GHB, due to recent

peaks in supply and use (Sep).

QNADA released a new report: “Building

Capacity in Alcohol and Drug Services – The

Queensland Experience – A Tough but

Perfect Confluence” (Oct).

Premier Anna Bligh announced that the

Queensland Government would establish an

independent Mental Health Commission (the

Commission) from 1 July 2012 to drive

improved performance, coordination and

transparency in the delivery of mental

health services in Queensland (Oct).

The Alcohol and Other Drugs

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Mr Michael Moore, CEO of the Public Health

Association of Australia (PHAA) was engaged

by the ACT Government, to respond to the

Burnet Report by: assessing barriers and

enablers to implementation of an NSP in the

AMC; & investigating models for delivery

(May).

Minister for Health, Katy Gallagher MLA,

become Chief Minister of the ACT (May).

Petition signed by 86% of the Alexander

Maconochie Centre's correctional officers

called on the ACT Legislative Assembly to

reject any proposal for a needle and syringe

program at the AMC. Put together by the

Community and Public Sector Union it stated

that “our working environment in the AMC is

already dangerous enough and we will

actively fight any proposal to make it worse

by introducing needle syringes into our

workplace.” Petition was tabled by

opposition Liberal corrections spokesman

Jeremy Hanson (21 Jun).

Chief Minister and Minister for Health, Katy

Gallagher MLA tabled the ACT Government's

final response to Burnet Report (evaluation

of drug policies and services at the AMC),

arising actions and timelines. The ACT

Government announced no immediate

disagreement with any of the 69

recommendations. Instead, 20 were agreed

to in full, including the need to develop a

drug strategy for the AMC and to improve

the governance structure overseeing policies

and services. Another 26 recommendations

were agreed to in principle, including

exploration of the development and

implementation of a program to provide

Naloxone to at-risk prisoners on release (28

Jun).

Under local medicines laws the ACT

Government automatically adopted the

decision of the Therapeutic Goods Authority

to prohibit from 6 July eight synthetic

cannabinoids. This made manufacturing,

possession, supply and/or use within the

ACT illegal from 8 Jul (amnesty on

prosecution was provided until Aug 8) (Jul).

Public Health Association of Australia report

released: “Balancing access and safety:

meeting the challenge of blood borne

viruses in prison - report for the ACT

Government into the implementation of a

NSP at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.”

consumers to arrange for safe destruction of

all supplies (28 June).

Former assistant director investigations for

the NSW Crime Commission, Mark Standen,

was found guilty of conspiring to import and

supply 300kg of pseudoephedrine and

conspiring to pervert the course of justice.

During the trial Crown prosecutor Tim

Game, SC, alleged that given thirty years of

involvement in law enforcement agencies,

including Australian Customs, Australian

Federal Police and intimate involvement in

gathering intelligence on drug syndicates

and money laundering, it was harder to

imagine a ‘greater breach of trust’. He was

later sentenced to 22 years imprisonment:

HR v Standen [2011] NSWSC 1422 (8

December 2011) (Aug and Dec).

The finding that Mark Standen was involved

in organized crime sparked renewed calls for

a Royal Commission of the NSW Crime

Commission (Aug).

NSW Police Minister Mike Gallacher rejected

calls for a full Royal Commission, but

established a special commission of inquiry

into the NSW Crime Commission to review

the commission’s structure and

accountability (Aug).

NSW 2021 plan released. NSW 2021 is the

10 year strategic plan setting immediate

priorities for action and guiding resource

allocation in conjunction with the NSW

Budget. Key priority actions include:

establish dedicated metropolitan drug

treatment facilities focused on treatment

and rehabilitation; encourage greater use of

non–custodial punishment for less serious

offenders and create availability and access

to diversionary program; review treatment

and intervention programs to identify ways

to increase completion rates; improve the

way government agencies share information

to deliver integrated services and

management of offenders; assist in

diverting people with mental health

problems out of the criminal justice system

and into services which meet their needs

(Sep).

Report of the Special Commission of Inquiry

into the New South Wales Crime

Commission released. The report by retired

judge David Patten found no evidence that

any members are engaged in criminal

Treatment Strategy Unit (AODTSU) became

part of the Mental Health Alcohol and Other

Drugs Directorate (see also (Oct).

Queensland Mental Health Commission

Advisory Committee was established (Nov).

“Inquiry into severe substance

dependence: a model for involuntary

detoxification and rehabilitation” launched

by the Health and Disabilities Committee of

the Queensland Parliament. The inquiry

sought to report on a model for the

involuntary detoxification and rehabilitation

of persons with severe substance

dependence, including examining the

potential benefits and costs of implementing

a model for the involuntary medicated

detoxification and rehabilitation of persons

with severe substance dependence and

examining initiatives in other Australian and

international jurisdictions (Dec).

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Report made 7 recommendations including

that the ACT Corrections Management Act

2007 be amended to require the

establishment of an NSP at the AMC. Key

evidence to support this was the high

number of IDU in the prison (a third of

inmates had reported injecting drugs) and

that an unregulated NSP already operated,

controlled by prisoners not health workers.

Three models for an NSP were put forward:

• Model 1: A contained NSP;

• Model 2: Equipment provision from

existing AMC health centre;

• Model 3: ‘One for one’ exchange

vending style machines (Jul).

ACT Government provided 6 weeks of public

consultation on the PHAA Report views and

recommendations (Jul-Sep).

Following the 6 July scheduling by the

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of

eight synthetic cannabinoids, the ACT

adopted the changes under local medicines

laws. This made it illegal from 8 July to

manufacture, obtain, possess, supply, sell

and/or use products containing synthetic

cannabis in the ACT (Jul).

Practice directions for a new ACT Youth Drug

and Alcohol Court (YDAC) were adopted.

The program, starting as a two year trial on

1 Dec 2011, sought to provide a pre-

sentence diversionary opportunity for

children and young offenders with a

demonstrable alcohol or drug problem (Jul).

Justice and Community Safety Directorate,

ACT Road Safety Action Plan 2011-2013 and

ACT Road Safety Strategy 2011-2020

adopted. Both include roadside drug testing

initiatives (Nov).

Street Law Report released - “The

Downward Spiral: How a fine can

cause homelessness in the ACT.” The report

identified that the ACT infringement system

was having a disproportionately negative

impact on vulnerable populations, including

those with serious AOD issues (Nov).

Australia’s first overdose management

program that provides naloxone (Narcan ®)

on prescription to potential overdose victims

launched. Training will be conducted for

opioid users and other potential overdose

witnesses over a two-year year period with

200 participants. Eligible participants who

successfully complete the training will be

activity, but concluded that the existing

accountability mechanisms were inadequate.

Key recommendations included that an

Inspector be appointed to oversee the NSW

Crime Commission, ensure compliance with

the law, assess the effectiveness of

procedures and deal with complaints of

misconduct (Nov).

Attorney General, Greg Smith SC announced

the establishment of the first dedicated

alcohol and drug rehabilitation prison facility

in NSW, which will provide an Intensive

Drug and Alcohol Treatment Program

(IDATP) for male and female inmates. The

first phase will involve a 62-bed unit for

male inmates at John Morony Correctional

Centre, to open in February 2012. Eligible

offenders will be sentenced inmates with a

documented history of problematic drug

and/or alcohol use, with a minimum or

medium security classification (Nov).

Attorney General, Greg Smith SC announced

the establishment of the second

metropolitan drug court: at the Downing

Centre Local Court, opposite Hyde Park

(Nov).

Figures obtained by the NSW Greens though

Parliamentary questioning showed that NSW

police sniffer dogs were wrong 4 out of 5

times when they indicate people had drugs

on them. This led Greens MP David

Shoebridge MLC to conclude the high error

rate, and high level of public humiliation,

showed the program must be halted (Dec).

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prescribed naloxone by a General

Practitioner upon reaching a level of

competence and assessment. The program

will be evaluated by an external evaluation

team led by Associate Professor Paul Dietze

and Professor Simon Lenton (Dec).

2010

Government released for public comment its

proposed bill for roadside drug testing. The

Road Transport (Drug Driving) Bill 2010 was

argued to be a comprehensive bill that

would fit within existing policies on human

rights and harm minimisation (27 May).

Former ACT Supreme Court judge Ken

Crispin published a book, “The Quest for

Justice,” which questioned the war on drugs.

In it he states that treating illicit drug use as

a criminal justice problem has not and will

never work (May).

The Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug

Association Australian Capital Territory Inc

(ATODA), was launched as the new

independent peak body for the ACT ATOD

sector. It provides for members from both

the non-government and government

sectors (18 Jun).

ACT Human Rights Commissioner provided

her opinion that the opposition bill for

roadside drug testing was non-compliant

with the ACT Human Rights Act since it

failed the proportionality test: it would

impinge on human rights but did not

guarantee doing so would lead to justifiable

community benefit. She also argued that

there was conflict with the ACT drug

legislation, as the ACT had decriminalised

possession of personal supply of cannabis

yet random roadside drug testing would

impose serious criminal sanctions on the use

of cannabis (29 Jun).

Road Transport (Alcohol and Drugs)

(Random Drug Testing) Amendment Bill

2009 passed by the opposition party

(Liberals) and the Greens for testing of

cannabis, ecstasy and amphetamines (30

Jun).

The ACT Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug

Strategy 2010-2014 adopted. Specific aims

were minimising harm, improving health

and social well-being, developing evidence-

based policies and implementing the

Strategy Action Plan in a manner that

respects, protects and promotes human

rights. 66 strategic priorities were specified

NSW Health funded KPMG to conduct a new

and independent evaluation into the

effectiveness and efficiency of the Medically

Supervised Injecting Centre.

Media reports increasing use of an ecstasy

like stimulant – mephedrone or miaow

miaow – following increased border seizures

and accounts of use in dance scenes

including Newcastle where it was reported

to have been sold for $2 a hit (Mar).

Arrests for possession and use of cocaine in

NSW increased 55% from 486 in 2008 to

753 in 2009 prompting calls by the NSW

Bureau of Crime Research and Statistics

that more cocaine was getting into the

country (Apr).

An integrated mental health, drug and

alcohol and community health facility – the

O’Brien Centre – was opened at St Vincent’s

Hospital. The centre aimed to provide a

more coordinated one-stop approach to

meeting needs e.g. detox, opioid treatment,

anxiety disorder units and mental health

workers (May).

NSW attorney general announced that

eleven years following the established of the

1st NSW drug court in Parramatta a 2

drug

court would be established in Toronto, NSW.

The cited reason was recent evidence of

effectiveness (17 Jun).

Opposition leader Barry O’Farrell said he

remained “concerned” that the Medically

Supervised Injecting Centre had “not met its

goal of providing a pathway for users to

access services to end their addiction” and

he wanted proof that the centre was helping

to end addiction before he would consider

calls for the centre to be made permanent

(16 Jun).

The Greens candidate for the federal seat of

Wentworth, Matthew Robertson called on

the NSW Government and Opposition to end

the trial period for the Kings Cross Medically

Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) and

make it permanent (27 Jun).

BOCSAR released new report: “Trends in

Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk targeted

cannabis and amphetamine trafficking on

major routes and highways entering and

exiting the Northern Territory.

Review of the Alcohol and Other Drug

Service Components of the Northern

Territory Emergency Response ‐ Final Report

released. This noted that while the Northern

Territory Intervention (introduced 21 June

2007) expanded some AOD services due to

fears that it would lead to more demand for

AOD detoxification/services, there were a

number of problems with the process. Key

problems included:

• The absence of involvement of the NGO

sector in the discussions. For example,

while the AOD Working Group

(established in Nov 2007) was

consulted this did not include

representation from this sector.

• Swift timelines led to some poor

decision making which was not in the

best interest of the NT AOD services

e.g. emphasis upon expansion rather

than capacity of organisations.

Recommended:

• That the operation of an independent

peak body be funded for all AOD

programs in the NT regardless of the

nature of the organisation in which they

operate.

That a long term cooperative plan for the

development of AOD services in the

Northern Territory be developed (May).

Crime and Misconduct Commission enquiry

into claims Gold Coast police officers have

been involved with organised crime gangs,

including outlaw bikies, importing drugs and

dealing them through big Gold Coast

nightclubs (Feb).

Crime and Misconduct Commission Report

released “Illicit drug markets in Queensland:

A strategic assessment.” Report identified

that methyl-amphetamine continued to pose

the highest risk to the Qld community, but

was likely to pose a decreasing risk in the

future due to law enforcement activities.

But, the risk of two drugs was deemed to be

increasing: cocaine due to increased

supply/use and ecstasy due to changes in

patterns of use namely use of multiple

tablets in a session (Feb).

Queensland’s chief health officer, Dr

Jeannette Young, announced that doctors

had to be more careful when prescribing

drugs containing pseudoephedrine (PSE),

which could be used in the production of

illicit amphetamines. Data from pharmacy

audits, data from the Pharmacy Guild of

Australia and information from the

Queensland Police Service State Drug

Investigation Unit had indicated increased

repeat and bulk prescriptions (Apr).

Criminal Organisation Act 2009 commenced.

Act seeks to increase Qld police powers to

disrupt & restrict the activities of

organisations involved in serious criminal

activity. The Act enables the Police

Commissioner to apply to the Supreme

Court to declare an organisation a ‘criminal

organisation’ for a 5 year period; to enact

control orders against individual members,

such as preventing association with any

member of a ‘criminal organisation’; to

provide for public safety and fortification

removal orders; and to create a new offence

of contravening a control order, which

carries a maximum penalty of 3 years' jail

for the first offence & 5 years' jail for

subsequent offences (15 Apr).

Operation Warrior, the largest organised

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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based on the size and severity of the

problem, evidence of effectiveness of

interventions and the environmental factors

that facilitate or impede effective

implementation. Key interventions included:

• Implement a local warning system

regarding drug market & drug-related

harms;

• Ensure prisoners & other detainees can

access the same community-based AOD

programs in & post detention;

• Develop a specific policy framework to

support consumer participation in drug

treatment & support services; &

• Implement national clinical guidelines

for the management of drug use during

pregnancy, birth & early years (Jun).

Amanda Bresnan MLA for the ACT Greens

released a new paper ‘Implementing a

Needle and Syringe Program in the

Alexander Maconochie Centre’ for public

consultation. The paper proposed that a

needle syringe program be introduced into

the ACT prison (Jul).

Repeal of Part 9 of the Drugs of Dependence

Act 1989 led to end of the Treatment

Referral Program (TRP) program (Aug).

ACT Chief Minister, Mr Stanhope, said that

in light of the New South Wales

Government's decision to formalise an

injecting room in Sydney's Kings Cross, he

will now consider the idea of introducing a

needle syringe program in the new

Alexander Maconochie Centre (Sep).

Paper 'Implementing a Needle and Syringe

Program in the Alexander Maconochie

Centre—Summary of responses to

discussion paper', prepared by Amanda

Bresnan, ACT Greens MLA, tabled in the

Legislative Assembly for the ACT (Nov.)

The first Annual General Meeting of the

Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association

ACT Inc. (ATODA) conducted, with Ms Anne

Kirwin elected as the inaugural President

(Nov.)

Expanding Naloxone Availability in the ACT

(ENAACT) Committee formed, a governance

group that sought to provide expert

guidance and support the development of a

program to expand Naloxone availability in

the ACT. Key members include:

• Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation

and Advocacy (lead)

property and illicit drug crime around the

Medically Supervised Injecting Centre in

Kings Cross: An update.” Report concluded

there was no evidence that the MSIC had

caused a negative impact on robbery,

property crime or drug offences in Kings

Cross (Sep).

KPMG evaluation of the Medically Supervised

Injecting Centre (MSIC) from 2007-2010

released. Core findings were that since

introduction MSIC had received

approximately 70,000 visits per year and:

• managed 3,426 overdose events with

no deaths onsite;

• provided a gateway to drug treatment

and other services, with 8,508 referrals

(3,871 to drug treatment) since

commencement; &

• reduced problems with public injecting,

as evidenced by a decrease in reported

sighting of public injecting from 55% in

2000 to 27% in 2010 (Sep 14).

Drug Misuse and Trafficking Amendment

(Medically Supervised Injecting Centre) Bill

2010 adopted. This removed the trial status

of the Kings Cross Medically Supervised

Injecting Centre, thereby enabling the

centre that had been operating since May

2001, to become a permanent fixture. The

bill was adopted with 22 votes of support

and 15 against (4 Nov).

NSW Director of Public Prosecutions Nick

Cowdery QC, who is set to retire in March

2011, released his own legislative agenda

that included decriminalising drug use,

possession and small-scale trafficking. He

said that the current approach to illicit drugs

was "ineffective, wasteful and inconsiderate

of the human rights of those

concerned"(Nov).

Former NSW Police analyst Terry Gregoriou

sentenced to 14 months imprisonment for

leaking confidential police documents to the

Comancheros motorcycle gang (Dec).

New interactive website providing drug and

alcohol information for young people – Your

Room – was launched. The website, an

initiative of NSW Health and the Alcohol and

Drug Information Service (ADIS), provides

an A to Z of drugs and their effects,

helplines, campaigns and treatment options

(Dec).

crime investigation in the Crime and

Misconduct Commission’s history detected a

national poly-drug syndicate

(methamphetamine, ecstasy and cannabis)

linked to outlaw motorcycle gangs that

crossed south-east Queensland, North

Queensland, Sydney and Melbourne. Large

quantities of drugs were also seized

including 3544 ecstasy tablets and 25 litres

of precursor GBL (capable of producing 60

litres of GHB) (May).

Inquiry into addressing cannabis-related

harm in Queensland received public

submissions and held public inquiries.

Chief Justice of Queensland, Paul de Jersey,

addressed the 12

International Criminal

Law Congress in Brisbane spoke of the

benefits of considering creative solutions to

illicit drugs. He commended the Swiss

response to the heroin problem, through

heroin prescription and provision of

supervised injecting rooms, and the

Portuguese decriminalisation of illicit drug

use (Oct).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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• ACT Ambulance Service;

• ACT Corrections Health;

• ACT Health;

• ATODA;

• Burnet Institute;

• National Drug Research Institute; &

• Pharmacy Guild, ACT Branch (Nov).

ACT 2011/2012 Budget Submission for a

program involving peer administration of

Naloxone. Budgeted $100,000 per year for

24 month trial involving 200 participants

(Dec).

The ACT Legislative Assembly asked the

Attorney-General to direct the ACT Human

Rights Commission to conduct an inquiry

into the youth justice system, and to

undertake a Human Rights Audit of Bimberi

Youth Justice Centre (Dec).

2009

Human Rights ACT 2004 (ACT): The First

Five Years of Operation Report released.

Concluded that the Human Rights Act has

improved the quality of law-making in the

Territory by ensuring human rights concerns

are given due consideration in the framing

of new legislation and policy (Jun).

Workshop on Strategic Directions and

Governance for the ACT AOD Sector held at

University House, ANU, Canberra: resolved

to establish an incorporated ACT ATOD Peak

body. Resolution subsequently endorsed by

the ACT ATOD services Executive Directors

Group (Jul 27-28).

Draft ACT Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug

Strategy 2010-2014 released for public

comment and consultation (Nov).

Draft ACT Comorbidity Strategy released for

public comment and consultation (Dec).

Opposition police spokesman Jeremy

Hanson tabled a bill - Road Transport

(Alcohol and Drugs) (Random Drug Testing)

Amendment Bill 2009 - seeking to give

police powers to conduct roadside drug

testing for cannabis, ecstasy and

amphetamines, similar to provisions in place

in other Australian jurisdictions.

Consideration of the Bill was deferred (Dec).

The NSW Supreme Court ruled that the NSW

Department of Human Services had been in

serious abuse of their position in demanding

that parents who use cannabis were unfit to

care for a child, and ordered the return of

two removed children (Jan).

NSW Drug and Alcohol Treatment Act

enacted which provides for the involuntary

treatment of persons with a severe

substance dependence. The act is being

trialed for an initial period of 18 months in

Auburn, Blacktown, Blue Mountains,

Hawkesbury, Holroyd, Lithgow, Parramatta

and Penrith council areas and The Hills

Shire. Under the act health workers, family

members and other interested parties may

refer a severely drug or alcohol dependant

person to a medical practitioner for

assessment. Individuals will be involuntarily

detained for treatment (for an initial period

lasting up to 28 days) provided they meet

the following criteria:

• that they have a severe substance

dependence, &

• care, treatment or control of the person

is necessary to protect the person from

serious harm &

• the person is likely to benefit from

treatment for his or her substance

dependence but has refused treatment

• no other appropriate and less restrictive

means for dealing with the person is

reasonably available. The trial will be

evaluated by KPMG (Feb).

The Prison In-Reach Program commenced at

Darwin Correctional Centre. The program

consists of five multi-disciplinary team

members who offer comprehensive alcohol

and other drug assessments, intensive

counseling, group work and aftercare

support to all prisoners at DCC and the Don

Dale Juvenile Detention Centre (Jan).

New Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk

(SAID) and Drug Operation Unit (DOU)

established in Katherine, in the goal of

reducing cross-border supply of licit and

illicit substances in the the Northern

Regional Police Command, including East

Arnhem, Nhulunbuy, Groote Eylandt and the

Milingimbi areas. This followed the success

of the first SAID established in Alice Springs

(Feb).

Northern Territory Government announced a

“new era in corrections”. Key to this was the

development of a new Darwin Correctional

Precinct that would include:

• an 800 bed Correctional Centre with

additional capacity for a further 200

beds;

• a 30 bed Secure Mental Health and

Behavioural Management Facility

(MHBMF); and

• a 48 bed Supported Accommodation

and Program Centre for community

based offenders (Feb).

Following an internal departmental review

the Opioid Pharmacotherapy Program and

withdrawal treatment services introduced a

new time effective treatment approach to

The Courier Mail commenced a three month

series of articles called “The Drugs Scourge”

which aimed to “spur public debate and

drive government action on ecstasy and

amphetamine use.” Key articles included

“drugs menace uncovered,” “bars, clubs

awash with drugs” and “drug users’ Russian

roulette.” The Courier Mail campaigned to

get pill presses banned (Mar).

Queensland Legislative Assembly referred a

paper by Drug Free Australia “Cannabis:

suicide, schizophrenia and other ill-effects”

to the Social Development Committee for

investigation and report. The enquiry was

explicitly asked to consider:

• The risks associated with cannabis use,

particularly for youth; &

• Strategies to reduce cannabis use in

Queensland (20 May).

Telecommunications Interception Act 2009

commenced. Act enabled use of

telecommunications interception by Qld

Police Service and Qld Crime Commission to

target criminals involved in serious and

organised crime (18 Jun).

A two-year joint operation between

Queensland Police and the Australian Crime

Commission claimed to have smashed a

Goldcoast based drug-trafficking syndicate

that included senior members of the Finks

outlaw motorcycle club. The operation

culminated with the arrest of 41 people after

two Finks clubhouses and the homes of

members and associates were raided (Nov).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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Research by BOCSAR into the link between

methamphetamine and violence found that

after adjusting for a number of risk factors

for re-offending (e.g. age, sex, Indigenous

status), offenders with a prior conviction for

an amphetamine offence were no more

likely than those with no prior drug offences

to be subsequently charged with a violent

offence (Feb).

NSW Health commenced a state-wide

Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Traineeships

program in the non-government sector. The

program aimed to increase the number of

tertiary qualified Aboriginal Drug and

Alcohol workers in the non-government

sector (Jun).

Draft NSW Youth Health Policy released

2010-2015 for consultation (Dec).

NSW Health commenced a 4 month

statewide social marketing campaign aimed

at warning people aged 18-25 of the

dangers of club drugs: “Don't let drugs use

you this summer party season.” NSW Health

partnered with festival organizers e.g.

Homebake and used posters and

advertisements in street press, music and

festival websites, nightclubs and outdoor

music events (Dec).

case management. Under the new approach

clients attend an eight-session relapse

prevention program followed by a four-

session coping skills program.

Completion of $4M capital redevelopment of

Banyan House. This enabled the centre that

was first established in 1978 to be

converted into a modern residential

rehabilitation centre.

New arrangements to support withdrawal

service options introduced in Alice Springs.

These arrangements were based on a

partnership between Drug and Alcohol

Services Association (DASA) and Alcohol

and Other Drugs Services Central Australia

(ADSCA) in the aim of streamlining referral

pathways, enhancing medical supervision

and support and assisting clients to access

services they need.

2008

ACT Government released the adult health

services plan for Canberra’s new prison:

Alexander Maconochie Centre. The plan

allowed the provision of bleach but not a

needle syringe program for inmates. The

strategy stated that the position would be

reviewed, as part of a comprehensive

evaluation, 18 months after the prison was

commissioned (Mar).

The report of the 2007 External Review of

the ACT Alcohol and Other Drug Service

System, undertaken by Siggins Miller on

behalf of ACT Health, was released.

Reviewers considered the current

arrangements, the changing needs of the

population, the issues affecting the AOD

service system, and its capacity to address

them. Reviewers recommended enhancing

the system capacity for pharmacotherapy

clients, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

clients, rehabilitation and relapse

prevention, plus building AOD literacy,

workforce development and governance and

accountability. ACT Health initiated a

consultation process with stakeholders to

Crimes Amendment (Drink and Food

Spiking) Bill 2008 adopted. Bill created a

new summary offence of spiking a person’s

drink or food with an intoxicating substance

with intent to harm the person (max penalty

2 years imprisonment or $11,000 fine, or

both) (Mar).

MSIC survey of pharmaceutical opioid (PO)

injectors showed 72% commenced PO use

subsequent to heroin injection. PO use

appeared associated with lesser harms. e.g.

Rate of heroin overdose was 0 – 2.5 per

1000 visits for PO injectors compared to 4.7

– 11 per 1000 visits for heroin injectors

(Mar).

NSW Mental Health/Drug and Alcohol

Comorbidity framework for action adopted.

Framework sought to increase the capacity

and competency of both the mental health

and drug and alcohol workforce to manage

and respond to comorbidity and to address

systemic barriers to communication and

collaboration. Key areas of work include

workforce planning and development,

infrastructure and systems development,

NT Government adopted roadside drug

testing for cannabis, amphetamines and

ecstasy (Feb).

Federal Government provided $2 million in

funds to expand drug detection dogs and

establish a new drugs intelligence desk to

assist in drug supply reduction efforts in

Arnhem Land and the Katherine region

(Mar).

New research by Senior and Richard,

published in the Australian Journal of Rural

Health released: ‘Lukumbat marawana: A

changing pattern of drug use by youth in a

remote Aboriginal community.’ Found that

the restrictions in the availability of alcohol

and petrol (as part of the Commonwealth

Northern Territory Intervention) led to

increased use of marijuana (Mar).

Study released showing rates of cannabis

use during 2005-06 were three times higher

in Arnhem land than in the general

population, with 61% males and 58%

females aged 13-36 reporting weekly use

compared to 24% males and 21% females

Drugs Misuse Amendment Bill 2007 passed.

Bill reclassified MDMA and PMA (an

amphetamine type drug) from schedule 2 to

schedule 1 dangerous drugs. Maximum

penalties for possession, supply and

trafficking increased from 20 to 25 years

(Feb).

Report released on the Queensland Drug

Court: “The Queensland Drug Court: a

recidivism study of the first 100 graduates.”

Study tracked recidivism over a minimum of

two years post-graduation, making this

evaluation the longest follow-up of

Australian drug court graduates to date.

Report found that after leaving the drug

court program 59% of those who graduated

had been reconvicted of a new offence

within two years compared to 77% of

terminates. Average time to first offence

was 139 days for terminates compared to

379 days for graduates (Mar).

Media reports claimed Qld Police in Fortitude

Valley were thankful that 80% Fortitude

Valley patrons used illicit drugs not alcohol

and that drugs made them much easier to

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discuss the report’s findings and

recommendations.

Liberal MLA Steve Pratt tabled legislation to

introduce roadside drug testing in the ACT.

The Government responded that it would

not rush into introducing such a proposal

and that it was examining the evidence from

other jurisdictions and would consult with

the community on the issue (Apr).

Discussion Paper: Review of the Road

Transport (Alcohol and Drugs) Act 1977

released by the ACT Government. Paper

aimed to get community views on issues

such as how to introduce roadside drug

testing in the ACT, what drugs should be

tested for, whether drug testing should be

compulsory for all drivers detected for drink

driving and whether offences should the

same as for drink driving. The ACT

Government provided two months to receive

feedback (May).

The ACT AOD Sector Project announced that

the First Annual ACT Alcohol and Other

Drugs Sector Conference would be held as

part of Drug Action Week 2008 (May).

Proposed ACT legislation for the introduction

of roadside drug testing lapsed (Oct).

Legislation passed allowing police to carry

out undercover controlled operations to

target drug cartels, money laundering and

terrorist cells: the ACT Crimes (Controlled

Operations) Act 2008 (18 Aug).

ACT Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic

Goods Act 2007 was passed. The act

consolidated four acts and regulations on

medicines, poisons and prohibited

substances. The act repealed the Poisons

and Drugs Act 1978, the Poisons Act 1993,

the Public Health (Prohibited Drugs) Act

1957 and amended the Drugs of

Dependence Act 1989 to provide a more

unified and workable scheme (Aug).

ACT Government released its Draft Mental

Health Services Plan 2008 – 2013 for public

consultation (Sep).

Alcohol and Drug Foundation ACT Inc

(ADFACT) announced its intention to

operate - in partnership with ACT Corrective

Services and ACT Corrections Health – a

therapeutic community in Canberra’s new

prison Alexander Maconochie Centre (Dec).

ACT Comorbidity Strategic Working Group

and improved responses for priority clients

e.g. amphetamine users with mental health

issues (Apr)

Proposal by Iemma Government to trial

medical use of cannabis. Needed support of

Federal Government to allow importation of

the oral spray – Sativex (May).

Mark Standen, Assistant Director of NSW

Crime Commission, arrested for conspiring

to import 600kg of pseudoephedrine,

enough to produce $120 million of “ice” and

conspiring to pervert the course of justice

(Jun).

The NSW Government recalled and pulped a

drug education booklet “Choosing to use ...

but wanna keep your head together?”

saying its advice about what people should

do if they take drugs was unacceptable

(Jun).

A preliminary evaluation of NSW Stimulant

Treatment Program released. Report showed

during the first 6 months 214 people

accessed the program and 50% participants

had not previously sought any formal

treatment. Key outcomes included

significant reductions in drug use, severity

of dependence, distress, mental health

problems and crime (Jun).

Inaugural MSIC Director Ingrid van Beek

resigned saying that her one regret was that

the MSIC continued to operate as a trial as

the trial status was a barrier to its effective

practice and meant it remained a political

football (Jul).

NSW Police run series of forums on ice,

targeting children aged 12-18. The series

aimed to reduce reported use amongst

teenagers, change perceptions that use was

glamorous and tell parents about the signs

their child was using (Aug).

The Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol

Office commenced discussions with

stakeholders regarding the Opioid

Treatment Strategic Plan 2010–2015 (Aug).

BOCSAR report on trends in property

and illicit drug-related crime in Kings Cross

released. Report showed very little

difference in the incidence of robbery and

property crime in Kings Cross versus the

rest of Sydney with both having declined.

There were differences in regards to

use/possess offences, with less heroin

in the general population (May).

Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill made

trafficking drugs into remote communities

an aggravated offence and increased the

maximum penalty for from five years to nine

years imprisonment (Jun).

NTPFES Police report that the tri-state

Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk had

cracked a number of long-standing crime

rings that ran cannabis from Adelaide into

remote central Australia, selling at about 16

times the supply price.

Partnerships were developed and/or

enhanced between NT Health and Families

and a number of service providers including

Top End Mental Health Services, NT Families

and Children, Aged and Disability, NT Police,

Department of Justice and NT Correctional

Services. Development and strengthening of

these networks and partnerships was seen

as a critical step in improving the effective

delivery of services to all client groups

affected by illicit drug use (2008-2009).

manage than alcohol (Aug).

Research from QADREC showed ecstasy had

become the drug of choice for young

Queenslanders following the Rudd

Governments 70% tax hike in alcopops

(Sep).

Queensland Health adopted a dual diagnosis

policy including that all mental health and

alcohol and drug specialists screen everyone

at their initial presentation for co-morbid

disorders and that no one be excluded on

the basis of co-morbidity (Sep).

Qld Police report that Lebanese criminals

with links to the Sydney underworld were

trying to take part in the Gold Coast ecstasy

trade (Oct).

Queensland Drug Strategy 2006-2010

Midpoint Evaluation released. Key

achievements included the adoption of the

Queensland Corrective Drug Strategy in

2006, the role out of a number of

diversionary programs e.g. QMERIT and a

decrease by approximately 20% in clan labs

located in Qld which was attributed in part

to Project STOP, collaboration between

police, government and industry and the

aggressive pursuit of proceeds of crime

(Oct).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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was established with the assistance of

funding provided by the Australian

Government Department of Health and

Ageing National Comorbidity Project’s

Improved Services Initiative.

use/possess and deal/traffic offences but

more cocaine use/possess offences in Kings

Cross (cfed to Sydney). But spatial analysis

was unable to conclude whether this was

due to the MSIC or other factors associated

with Kings Cross (Sep).

First women charged in NSW with large-

scale supply of Oxycodone, the prescription

drug known as “hillbilly heroin” (Sep).

Two children were taken into foster care

after the NSW Department of Community

Services (DOCS) reported concerns over

their parents’ use of cannabis. This followed

demands by DOCS that the parents remain

“drug free” and provide random urine

samples (Sep).

A re-evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of

the NSW Drug Court showed the cost of the

Drug Court was estimated to be $32.752

million ($16.376 million per annum). The

cost of conventional sanctions was $36.268

million ($18.134 million per annum) which

meant the drug court gave a net saving of

$1.758 million per annum (Sep).

Media reports asserted NSW doctors were

being pressured into wrongfully prescribing

Oxycodone, a drug that was later being sold

on the streets for profit (Oct).

Second evaluation of the NSW Drug Court

released. The study concluded that

offenders who attended the drug court were

17% less likely to be reconvicted for any

offence and 30% less likely to be

reconvicted for a violent offence than drug

dependent offenders sentenced to

imprisonment through the traditional court.

The program was also proven to save $2

million a year when compared to the

traditional response (Nov).

Outcry over a brochure titled “A users guide

to speed” was displayed to year 8 students

attending a NSW sponsored community

information day (Nov).

2007

ACT Draft Adult Corrections Health Services

Plan 2007-2010 released. Noted that needle

syringe exchange should be considered and

ACT Health planned to consider the merits

of a trial in the Alexander Maconochie

Centre (Jul).

ACT drug user group - Canberra Alliance for

Harm Minimisation and Advocacy (CAHMA) –

re-opened (Jul).

20 year old Annabel Catt died after

attending a Good Vibrations dance party and

taking what she thought was ecstasy. The

tablet was later proved to contain PMA

(Feb).

NSW Police commenced a pilot of Random

Drug Driving Testing with roadside saliva

testing for cannabis, amphetamines and

ecstasy (Jan).Drug and Alcohol Plan 2006–

Substance Abuse Committee formed to

provide strategic advice (Jun).

Northern Territory Intervention adopted.

Included widespread alcohol restrictions,

increased policing, medical examinations of

all Indigenous children and reforms to

welfare system (Jun).

Legislation for Northern Territory

Intervention passed - Northern Territory

Queensland Police commenced random

roadside drug testing for cannabis,

amphetamines and ecstasy (Dec).

Amendments to the Drugs

Misuse Regulation 1987 the it illegal to

publish or possess documents containing

instructions about the manufacturing or

illicit drugs (punishable with up to 25 years

imprisonment) and supply any items for

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ACT Corrective Services Drug, Alcohol and

Tobacco Strategy 2006 - 2008 adopted.

Strategy aimed for harm minimisation,

demand reduction and effective clinical

management for substance misusers (Sep).

2010 adopted (Mar).

MSIC interim evaluation report no. 3 on

client referral and health issues released

(Mar).

MSIC interim evaluation report no. 4 on

service operation and overdose-related

events released (Jun).

Medically Supervised Injecting Centre trial

continued 2007-2011 (Jul).

Evaluation of NSW Cannabis Clinics showed

that on average 31% clients experienced a

reduction in their cannabis use and 42%

were abstinent upon treatment completion.

Key elements of effective service delivery

were that cannabis clinics were marketed &

promoted as separate, discrete services for

problematic cannabis use and that clinics

were located in generic facilities, rather than

in identifiable D&A services. The report

identified that access to cannabis clinic

services was limited by factors such as

geographical location, proximity to transport

and hours of operation. Evaluators argued

there was scope for alternative models of

service delivery (Jul).

NSW Hepatitis C Strategy 2007-2009

adopted.

NSW Attorney General stated

that the cumulative effect of amendments to

the NSW Bail ACT was that NSW “now has

the toughest bail laws in Australia” (Oct).

NSW MERIT: Health Outcomes study

completed. Study demonstrated that by

program exit at three months, levels and

types of illicit drug use and associated risk

behaviours were significantly reduced and

levels of physical and psychological health

had improved. At exit 39% participants

were abstinent from all illegal drugs & the

frequency of use reduced across all drugs.

Most notably daily use decreased from 45%

to 11% for cannabis & from 24% to 1% for

heroin (Nov).

Amendments to the Drug Misuse and

Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) banned the

possession of recipes for drug

manufacturing and the possession of certain

precursors and apparatus used for

manufacturing illicit drugs. Penalties

included $2,200 or 2 years imprisonment for

possession of drug manufacturing recipes,

$110,000 and/or 5 years imprisonment for

National Emergency Response Bill 2007

(Aug).

The NT incorporated PSYCHECK into its

clinical practice to improve screening and

brief intervention for high prevalence mental

health disorders in alcohol and other drug

services.

Establishment of an AOD Working Group

(Nov).

illicit drug use (punishable with up to 15

years imprisonment) (??).

The Ice Breaker Strategy Taskforce

completed its report to the Qld Government.

Key recommendations included a targeted

young adult illicit drug campaign, legislation

banning the retail display and supply of ice

pipes, a 3-year pilot study at 2 hospital

emergency departments for ATS responses

and expansion of Alcohol and Drug

Adolescent Withdrawal Service outreach

services (Jun).

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possession of the precursors and a

maximum of 10 years imprisonment for

possession of apparatus for the manufacture

of drugs (Nov).

2006

Report on “ACT Government Expenditure on

Preventing and Responding to Drug Abuse,

2004-05” estimated ACT Government

expenditure on drug abuse in 2004-05 was

$85.094 million, 3.2% of the total ACT

budget for the year. Of this 22% was spent

in the health sector, 77% in the law

enforcement sector and 1% on emergency

services (Mar).

Final report on trial of the syringe vending

machines released. Concluded trial had gone

well and been accepted by community and

recommended expansion of syringe vending

machines in the ACT (Jun).

ACT drug user group - Canberra Alliance for

Harm Minimisation and Advocacy (CAHMA) –

closed (Jul).

NSW HIV/AIDS Strategy 2006-2009

adopted.

In response to fears of higher potency of

hydroponic cannabis NSW Premier Iemma

and his cabinet officers introduced tougher

legislation for hydroponic cannabis.

Amendments to the Drug Misuse and

Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) included:

• A max penalty of $220,000 and/or 10

years imprisonment for the cultivation

of 5-49 plants for individuals;

• A max penalty of $385,000 and/or 15

years imprisonment for the cultivation

of 50-199 plants;

• A max penalty of $550,000 and/or 20

years imprisonment for the cultivation

of 200 or more plants;

The new penalties were 5 times greater

than for non-hydroponic cultivation.

Maximum penalties were also increased for

the theft of electricity to power hydro

houses ($11,000 and/or 2 years

imprisonment) (Feb).

MSIC interim evaluation report no. 2 on

community attitudes towards the service

released (Mar).

MSIC reported that pharmaceutical opioids

had become the most commonly injected

drug category, used for 40% all injecting

episodes (Apr).

Amendments to the Drug Misuse and

Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW)banned the sale,

supply and display or water and ice pipes

and made them punishable with $2200

and/or 2 years imprisonment (May).

NSW Ombudsmen report released: Review

of the Police Powers (Drug Detection Dogs)

Act 2001. This reviewed use of the drug

detection dogs over their first two years of

operation. Key findings:

• Prohibited drugs were only located

in 26% of the searches following

an indication.

• Only 1.38% of all indications

involved a prescribed ‘deemed

supply’ quantity of a prohibited

drug.

• No evidence that the use of drug

detection dogs disrupted low-level

First Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk

(SAID) established in Alice Springs in a joint

operation between the Commonwealth,

Northern Territory, South Australian and

Western Australian governments to

coordinate and target the trafficking of licit

and illicit substances/alcohol in the cross-

border regions (Jan).

NT Road Safety Taskforce Report 2006

found that the risk of being killed in the NT

was 3 times greater than anywhere else in

Australia and indeed greater than in all

other nations in the developed world. 48%

of fatal crashes were alcohol-related and a

Drug-Use Monitoring in Australia pilot in NT

indicated one in three people detained for

driving offences tested positive to illicit

drugs. Taskforce called for laws to test for

drug-driving (Jun).

Amendments to the Tobacco and Other

Smoking Products Act 1998 prohibited the

sale or display of ice pipes or bongs and

made such offences punishable with a

$10,500 fine (Jan).

Queensland Network of Alcohol and other

Drug Agencies Inc (QNADA) commenced

(May).

QMERIT (Queensland Magistrate’s Early

Referral into Treatment) program introduced

(Jul).

Fourth Queensland Drug Strategy 2006-

2009 released (Oct).

Criminal Code (Drink Spiking) and Other

Acts Amendment Bill 2006 adopted. Bill

created a new offence of spiking a person’s

drink with an intoxicating substance with

intent to harm the person (maximum

penalty 5 years imprisonment) (Oct).

Qld Premier and Minister for Health

established an Ice Breaker Strategy

Taskforce chaired by Chief Health Officer Dr

Jeannette Young to oversee the

development and implementation of a

Queensland Government’s Ice-Breaker

Strategy to reduce uptake, use and harms

associated with methamphetamine use

(Dec).

Queensland Corrective Services Drug

Strategy adopted. Strategy enshrined “a

zero-tolerance approach to drug use within

a context of harm minimization” and

included

• supply reduction initiatives e.g. drug

testing, staff searches, and use of drug

detection dogs and ionscan devices

• demand reduction initiatives e.g.

provision of range of treatment options

plus drug treatment units and a Drug

Free Incentive Program (DFIP)

• harm reduction initiatives e.g.

pharmacotherapy maintenance

treatment for eligible short term

offenders and peer education on the

harms associated with drug use, their

effects and issues concerning overdose

and unsafe injecting practices.

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street dealing in a sustained

manner.

• No evidence of a deterrent effect

on drug users.

Review concluded: Despite the best efforts

of police officers, the use of drug detection

dogs has proven to be an ineffective tool

for detecting drug dealers and that there

should be a review of whether the

legislation should be retained (Oct).

Stimulant Treatment Program (STP)

commenced in Darlinghurst and Newcastle

to provide clinical interventions for people

with co-morbid mental health and stimulant

drug-related problems (Nov).

Prisoner at the NSW Corrective Services

complex in Surry Hills – Gary Kelso – died

after failing to receive medical attention

while in heroin withdrawal (Nov).

BOCSAR report on trends in property

and illicit drug-related crime in Kings Cross

released. Report showed similar patterns of

theft and property offences in Kings Cross

and broader Sydney (both declining) and

similar trends for most use/possess and

dealing/trafficking offences. Report

concluded the MSIC had not at this stage

had an adverse effect on crime in Kings

Cross (Nov).

2005

Trial of syringe vending machines

commenced at the Civic, Belconnen,

Tuggeranong and Phillip Community Health

Centres (Feb).

Drugs of Dependence (Cannabis for Medical

Conditions Trial) Amendment Bill 2005

sponsored by a Greens member Dr Deb

Foskey as an exposure draft 18 Oct 2005 -

lapsed.

Criminal Code (Serious Drug Offences)

Amendment Act 2004 came into force,

reducing eligibility criteria

for the Simple Cannabis Offence Notice

(SCON) scheme. The new criteria included a

maximum of 5 to 2

cannabis plants and excluded all

hydroponically grown plants (May).

ACT Minister for Health, Simon Corbell MLA,

announced that he would propose to his

Cabinet colleagues that the new Canberra

prison – Alexander Maconchie Centre – have

a needle syringe program (NSP) as part of

its comprehensive health plan (Nov).

MSIC interim evaluation report no. 1 on

operation and service delivery released

(May).

MSIC reported they had started to see

increases in injection of pharmaceutical

opioids (mostly morphine and oxycodone)

(Aug).

Profile of Services and Interventions Project

commissioned (Jan).

Report on Profile of Services and

Interventions released (Jul).

Project STOP commenced by Pharmacy

Guild of Queensland – used online database

to track sales of pseudoephedrine. Project

STOP was a partnership between Qld Police

and the Pharmacy Guild (Nov).

Police Powers and Responsibilities (Drug

Detection Dogs) Amendment Act 2005

passed to enable police use of drug

detection dogs without a warrant on

persons, vehicles and things in public

places, licensed premises, and at sporting

and entertainment events (Nov).

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2004

Human Rights Act adopted in the ACT (Mar).

Drugs of Dependence (Cannabis for Medical

Conditions) Amendment Bill 2004. Presented

by Ms Kerrie Tucker (Greens). Date

presented: 30 June 2004 (5

Assembly).

Defeated 25 August 2004.

Third ACT drug strategy released: Alcohol,

Tobacco & other Drugs Strategy 2004-2008.

This included an action plan for

implementation (Aug).

ACT Drugs of Dependence Act 1989

amended to allow supply of needle and

syringes through vending machines (Aug).

NSW Premier announced trial of medical use

of cannabis had stalled because while the

government had examined a number of

options, the preferred delivery method – a

metered-dose inhaler or spray – was years

away from being available and the NSW

(and federal) government opposed any

means that allowed growing in backyards

i.e. decriminalisation of cannabis cultivation

or purchase on the black market (Apr).

MERIT completed roll-out to all Area Health

Services in NSW (Jun).

Alcohol and Other Drug Program convened

forum for drug and alcohol treatment

agencies to advise on the improvement of

service delivery and outcomes (Mar).

New NT health strategy adopted - “Building

Healthier Communities: A framework for

health and communities services 2004-

2009.” Framework had six priority areas

included strengthening families and tackling

substance abuse through increasing

availability and quality of treatment services

for substance abuse (Apr ???).

Health Advisory Council established, chaired

by Dr Charles Kilburn, as part of the

Building Healthier Communities strategy.

Council aimed to provide the NT health

minister with community views on the

effectiveness of current health (including

drug and alcohol) policies/services, and

issues of concern (Apr).

Northern Territory Police Remote

Communities Drug Strategy commenced

(later named the Remote Area Drug

Strategy). This was a proactive strategy

targeting the supply of illicit drugs.

Northern Territory Police Remote

Community Drug Desk (RCDD) established

to coordinate and implement the Remote

Communities Drug Strategy. The RCDD is

comprised of strategic officers of the Drug

Enforcement Section who pool intelligence

from local level policing initiatives and

undertake strategic and tactical operations

aimed at disrupting the distribution of drugs

to and within remote communities (May).

Drug Dog Detection Unit established within

NT police (Dec).

Release of the Select Committee on

Substance Abuse in the Community Report:

Confronting the Confusion and

Disconnection. The report concluded that

there were significant shortfalls in the

Northern Territory Government’s response

to substance abuse, particularly within

remote communities and that there was

insufficient coordination for substance abuse

for the three main substances of abuse:

alcohol, petrol and cannabis. Key

recommendations were to increase

coordination between government agencies,

to identify and address the gaps in service

delivery and that a community audit be

conducted to assess the needs, assets,

New user group established - Queensland

Injectors Health Network (QuIHN) (Jul).

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resources and views of each remote

community, with the goal of prioritizing

future programs on the basis of the

community audit.

Drug detection dogs commenced operation

(Dec).

2003

Court Alcohol and Drug Assessment Service

evaluation completed by Morgan Disney and

Associates – key recommendation: need to

increase

program access and improve services for

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

(Jun).

ACT Standing Committee on Health released

report “Access to Needles and Syringes by

Intravenous Drug Users.” Report

recommended that the Government install

injecting equipment vending machines

across the whole of the ACT and that it

provide injecting equipment exchange in the

ACT prisons (Aug).

ACT Government announced $250,000 to

implement priority areas of drug strategy

including 100 extra treatment places to trial

needle and syringe vending machines and

examine the feasibility of needle exchange

in ACT prisons (Dec).

NSW Premier Carr announced that a draft

exposure bill would be introduced at the

earliest opportunity to provide for a 4 year

trial of medical use of cannabis. It was

proposed that patients would register with

an Office of Medical Cannabis in the NSW

Department of Health and that the trial

would be tightly restricted to individuals who

met strict medical conditions and were aged

18 or over and were not pregnant or on

parole. This had in principle support from

the Opposition Leader, John Brogden MP

provided cultivation and distribution were

tightly regulated. Details of how THC would

be legally supplied to registered users

remained to be established by the

Government (May 20).

Provisional support from Prime Minister for 4

year trial of medical use of cannabis in NSW

but only if drug could be provided in non-

smokeable form (May 23).

NSW Area Health Service closed

Cabramatta’s Drug Intervention Service

(DISC) after increased community concern

over the service (Jul).

Phase one evaluation of Medically

Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC)

released. During the first 18 months of

operation 3,810 clients had registered to

use the MSIC and there had been 56,861

visits (average of 15 per client). 409 drug-

overdose related incidences occurred and

were managed at the MSIC (7.2 ODs per

1000 visits). In addition to supervision of

injecting, health care services e.g. vein care

advice were provided every 1 in 4 visits and

1 in 41 visits resulted in referrals for further

assistance e.g. treatment of drug

dependence. The evaluators concluded that

the MSIC was feasible and had reached

target group. There was evidence the MSIC

contributed to less public injecting,

improved public amenity and less risky

injecting practices. Public support for the

service also increased. At the same time

there was no evidence that MSIC

contributed to increased theft or robbery or

Margot Laughton, an Indigenous

grandmother, became first person to have

her home declared a drug premises. She

was evicted from her Territory Housing unit

in Darwin (Jan).

CREDIT NT (Court Referral and Evaluation

for Drug Intervention and Treatment,

Northern Territory) introduced (May)

A private member’s bill – Legislative

Assembly Members (Random Drug Testing)

Bill 2003 – was introduced to the NT

Legislative Assembly by Mr Stephen

Dunhum MLA. The bill sought mandatory

annual illicit drug testing for members of the

legislative assembly. Bill subsequently

lapsed.

Establishment of the NT Clinical Advisory

Committee

Criminal Property Forfeiture Act 2002

introduced, giving the DPP the power to

apply to the court for an unexplained wealth

declaration against a person, and reverse

the onus of proof to prove assets are legally

obtained. The act allows that assets from

organized crime and drug trafficking to be

seized, without need for conviction of

criminal wrong doing.

Illicits Drug Court Diversion Program

introduced (Mar)

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loitering. But the predicted reduction in ODs

in the area was not observed. The

evaluators recommended continued

monitoring if the trial were extended (Jul).

Trial of MSIC extended until 2007 and new

evaluation established (Oct).

2002

Alcohol Tobacco and other Drug Taskforce

established to devise a new drug strategy

(Aug).

New ACT drug user group established -

Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and

Advocacy (CAHMA).

Use of drug detection dogs commenced (22

Feb).

The Ryde Needle Syringe Program was

closed by the NSW Minister for Health after

local media attention to unused needle and

syringes being found in the grounds of the

local primary school (Mar).

MSIC trial extended additional 12 months to

enable operation during evaluation (Oct).

Launch of the NSW Hepatitis C Strategy

2003-2006 (Nov).

COAG-IDDI agreement signed (Jan)

New user group established - Network

Against Prohibition Northern

Territory (NAPNT) (Mar).

Report from Taskforce on Illicit Drugs.

Concluded that compared to the rest of

Australian the drug situation remained very

distinct in NT. E.g. alcohol remained the

major drug of concern. The Taskforce

argued that the evidence on methadone was

now substantial and strongly recommended

amending the NT Poisons and Dangerous

Drugs Act to enable pharmacotherapies for

the treatment of opioid dependence for

maintenance and withdrawal. Other

recommendations included better

advertising of treatment services, more

training of treatment personnel and that

NSPs be expanded in the NT (May).

Public Order and Anti-Social Conduct Act

repealed (Jun).

Misuse of Drugs Act amended - introduced

new rulings on drug premises orders.

Enabled houses or business where there was

evidence of supply or possession of drugs to

be declared “drug premises” and for police

to enter and search such premises and

anyone on the premise without warrant for

12 months (Jul).

Methadone maintenance program first

provided in the Northern Territory, 33 years

after methadone was first provided in

Australia (Sep).

Northern Territory Illicit Drug Pre-Court

Diversion Program introduced (Dec).

Criminal Proceeds Confiscation Act 2002

adopted allowing the court to confiscate

property derived from criminal activity such

as drug trafficking without charge or

conviction.

2001

COAG-IDDI agreement signed (May)

ACT election - ALP gained office and

postponed issue of a SIP trial until after the

evaluation of the NSW MSIC trial (Nov)

ACT Policing and Early Intervention

Diversion Program (PEID - later called PED)

introduced (Dec)

NSW Cabramatta Anti-Drug Strategy

adopted to tackle drug and crime in

Cabramatta and across the state. This

included a new criminal justice plan

including new laws and a new police station

in Cabramatta and local crime prevention.

Strategy was supported by funding of $18.6

million over four years (Mar).

A NSW Police Officer involved in the fatal

shooting of Jim Hallinan was dismissed after

Labor party released three point tough on

drugs election policy. Included zero

tolerance on drug production and

distribution, compulsory treatment for drug-

related offenders and a drug prevention

strategy (Mar).

Country Liberal Party introduced Public

Order and Anti-Social Conduct Act. Act gave

police new powers to define, “move on” and

arrest people for 'anti-social' behaviour and

COAG-IDDI agreement signed (Mar)

Police Diversion for Minor Drug Offences and

Drug Court Program introduced (Jun)

Drugs Misuse (Amphetamine Offences)

Amendment Act 2001 passed. Act

reclassified amphetamine and methyl

amphetamine from schedule 2 to schedule 1

dangerous drugs and increased maximum

penalties for possession, supply and

trafficking from 20 to 25 years. Cited

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testing positive to cannabis (Mar).

Medically Supervised Injecting Centre

opened in Kings Cross as 18 month trial (1

May 2001).

Research by Maher and Dixon showed police

crackdowns in Cabramatta were associated

with displacement of the drug market and

considerable public health risks to users

including increased oral and nasal storage of

heroin, decreased use of needle and syringe

equipment and increased risk taking in

injecting (May).

The Police Integrity Commission report on

the shooting of Ron Levi recommended the

immediate introduction of random drug

testing of all NSW Police Officers (Jun).

Government’s Police Powers (Drug

Premises) Act 2001 commenced giving

police the power to search and close down

drug houses, arrest drug dealers and

lookouts operating from drug houses and

arrest any person in or entering or leaving a

drug house (Jul).

Legislative Council’s General Purpose

Standing Committee No 3 into Cabramatta

Policing tabled its report and 25

recommendations. Report identified major

deficiencies in policing in Cabramatta e.g.

increasing neglect of drug-related crime

which it attributed to questionable

management practices (Jul).

Random drug testing introduced in NSW

Police Force. This supplemented the

mandatory drug testing of officers involved

in critical incidents (Sep).

Police Powers (Drug Detection Dogs) Act

adopted, giving police the powers to use a

drug detection dog (or sniffer dog) in an

authorized place (including a pub, sporting

event or outdoor festival) or by warrant to

aid in their detection of drug offenders. This

followed their trial for general duty policing

during the Sydney Olympics and made NSW

the first state to adopt such provisions. In

adopting the act the (then) Minister for

Police, the Hon. Michael Costa MLC stated:

“The bill is aimed primarily at detecting and

prosecuting persons committing offences

relating to the supply of prohibited drugs

and plants. … It is clear that the activity

envisaged is drug dealing” (Dec).

to signpost houses as anti-social (Jun).

Change of government – NT election won by

Labor party (Aug).

Taskforce on Illicit Drugs established with

the mandate of examining trends, and using

national and international evidence to advise

on the role of pharmacotherapy treatments

and on the optimum responses for youth

and other priority groups (Nov).

rationale was the increasingly serious

problem of amphetamine use and

manufacturing in Queensland (Sep).

The 2nd Youth Drug Summit - involved 50

young people. Recommended that needed

more incentives to obtain work, more youth

specific withdrawal options and flexibility in

treatment (23 & 24 October).

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2000

Advisory Committee established to oversee

Supervised Injecting Place trial (Feb)

SIP trial postponed by ACT Government for

18 months (until election) following budget

negotiations between the minority Liberal

Government and independents (Jul)

Court Alcohol and Drug Assessment Service

(CADAS) introduced, following discussions

between Chief

Magistrate and ACT Health (Oct)

COAG-IDDI agreement signed in NSW and

the first program – the Adult Cannabis

Cautioning Scheme was introduced (Apr)

Inquiry by the Legislative Council’s General

Purpose Standing Committee No 3 into

Cabramatta Policing was established. As

part of inquiry Detective Sergeant Tim Priest

claimed organised crime was rampant and

police were being pressured to ignore the

drug market (Jun).

Lismore MERIT Pilot Program and Youth

Drug and Alcohol Court were introduced

(Jun - Jul)

Report released by Working Party on the

Use of Cannabis for Medical Purposes.

Report agreed that THC can be useful in

treating nausea, vomiting and appetite loss

in patients with HIV and in cancer patients

undergoing chemotherapy. But that crude

cannabis cannot nor is likely to ever be

prescribed in Australia. Recommended that

further trials be conducted into

administration of THC via non-oral routes

and development of new synthetic

cannabinoids. They further recommended

that until medical cannabinoids become

available individuals found obtaining,

possessing or using cannabis should be

exempt (for compassionate reasons) from

criminal prosecution, provided they had a

prior medical certification that they had a

condition that might benefit from cannabis

use (Aug).

NSW Heroin Overdose Prevention and

Management Strategy released involving

$670,000 (Nov)

First NSW Hepatitis C Strategy 2000 – 2003

adopted (Nov).

Framework for Action - NSW Drugs and

Community Action Strategy (Dec).

The National Liberal Party proposed to

extend mandatory sentencing to drug

trafficking offences

Queensland Government introduced a Drug

Court (Jun).

1999

Report on Evaluation of ACT Drug Strategy

1995-97 released.

ACT drug user group - Australian Capital

Territory IV League (ACTIV League)

disbanded

Dual Diagnosis: Stopping the merry-go-

round a report of findings from a review of

mental health and alcohol and other drug

problems in the ACT (Apr).

Canberra Injectors Network, CIN was funded

as new ACT drug user group (Jul).

NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan

admits in an interview with Britain's Daily

Mail that "we are not winning on the drugs

front" and that drugs are the "root of most

crime" (Jan).

Photograph of a teenage boy engaged in

injecting drug use in a lane-way in Redfern,

appeared on the front page of a Sydney

Newspaper and sparked debate over the

effectiveness of NSW drug policy (Jan 31).

Minister for Health, Hon A Refshauge MP,

closed down the Redfern needle exchange

Queensland Drug Summit held with a focus

on youth issues. Involved 70 delegates –

politicians, youth workers, youth and

community workers. Resulted in

establishment of 24 projects state-wide in

partnership with three peak youth and

indigenous bodies (16-17 March).

Third Queensland Drug Strategy launched:

‘Beyond a Quick Fix: Queensland Drug

Strategic Framework 1999/2000 to

2003/2004.’ Focus of strategy was on youth

and early intervention (Jun).

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Second ACT drug strategy released: From

Harm to Hope: ACT Drug Strategy 1999

(Sep).

Supervised Injecting Place Trial Act 1999

passed by the ACT Legislative Assembly

(Dec).

outlet, and ordered a review of the $9

million statewide needle exchange program

(Feb).

Premier, Hon B Carr MP, announced his

government would hold a drug summit if re-

elected (Feb).

NSW Drug Court trial commenced (Feb)

Labor government re-elected under Premier

Carr (Mar).

Tolerance or T Room injecting room opened

by a group of clergy, social workers and

health professionals in the Wayside Chapel

in Kings Cross (4-12 May).

NSW Drug Summit held in NSW Parliament.

Summit was attended by 135 NSW

Parliamentary delegates; 2 Federal

parliamentary delegates; 80 non-

Parliamentary delegates; and 45 associate

delegates (17-21 May).

NSW Government response outlined in

Government Action Plan. 172

recommendations from summit were

adopted and 7 key strategic areas endorsed

e.g. enhanced prevention and early

intervention, fast-tracking new treatments,

better case management and breaking the

drugs-crime cycle. This included plans to

introduce state-wide trials of a Cannabis

Cautioning Scheme and Early Court

Intervention Pilot (subsequently named

MERIT) and an injecting room (Jul).

NSW Government committed $176 million

towards the implementation of Drug Summit

recommendations and established a new

Office of Drug Policy to provide leadership

and coordination.

Working Party on the Use of Cannabis for

Medical Purposes established. This followed

calls by the Australian Medical Association

(AMA) and the Law Society of New South

Wales for people with illnesses such as

cancer and AIDS to be prescribed cannabis

for pain relief (Aug).

Legislation for injecting centre – MSIC

passed – Drug Summit Legislative Response

Bill (1999) (Nov)

Queensland Drug Coordinating Committee

(QDCC) established to coordinate and

oversee implementation of Queensland drug

strategy.

Inter-governmental committee, YADA

(Youth Alcohol and Drug Action), established

by QDCC to consider youth drug issues

(Nov)

1998

Discussions began around trialling a

‘supervised injecting place’ (SIP) and

Supervised Injecting Place Trial Advisory

Committee was established.

Mandatory drug and alcohol testing

introduced for NSW police officers involved

in critical incidents e.g. police shootings

(Jul).

NSW Legislative Council Standing

Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Illicit Drug Task Force

convened

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Committee on Social Issues inquiry into

hepatitis C released report ‘Hepatitis C: the

Neglected Epidemic.’ This made 132

recommendations including to expand

prevention and control strategies, adopt a

NSW strategy on Hepatitis C and to

advocate for increased national attention to

the prevalence and response(s) to Hepatitis

C (Nov).

Ethnographic research into heroin use in the

Cabramatta drug market published in

report: “Running the Risks: Heroin, Health

and Harm in South-West Sydney. Report

documented the patterns and contexts of

heroin use, risk taking behavior, income

generation and the impacts of street law

enforcement activities.

1997

ACT Government formally sought and

obtained support at the MCDS meeting for a

heroin trial (Jul)

Commonwealth Government declined to

authorise importation of heroin to support

the trial (Aug)

Canberra Injectors Network, CIN –

established by drug users with aim of

providing peer-based education.

Four Corners report on the Cabramatta

outlined its decline from being a multi-

cultural melting pot to the heroin capital of

Australia, as evidenced by the highly visible

street dealing and use. Four Corners argued

that in spite of five years of police efforts

the drug trade had flourished, bringing with

it violence, death and police corruption

(Apr).

Woods Royal Commission report concluded

that a war on drugs approach contributed

towards police corruption. Recommended

increased attention to alternate approaches

– increased focus on harm minimisation

strategies, increasing public education,

expanding methadone availability and

establishing a supervised injecting facility

(May).

Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on

Social Issues was asked to inquire into

Hepatitis C (HCV) and its implications for

the community (May).

NSW Police officers Rodney Podesta and

Anthony Dilorenzo shot dead a mentally

disturbed man, Ron Levi. Both police officers

were later found to be cocaine users, who

regularly partied before work. This led to

public outcry since neither officer was drug

tested at the time of the shooting (Jun).

NSW Parliamentary Joint Select Committee

established to consider feasibility of a trial of

a supervised injecting facility (Jul).

Several news articles appeared citing New

South Wales Health Minister Andrew

Refshauge’s claim that St Vincent’s Hospital

in Sydney received approximately five

Introduction of mandatory sentencing in NT

for minor offences

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people a day being treated for GHB

overdoses (Nov).

A Drug Intervention Service (DISC) was

established in Cabramatta to provide a

needle syringe program and counseling

service to resident and visiting drug users.

Cabramatta police began saturation policing

in efforts to disrupt and displace the

burgeoning heroin market.

1996

Heroin Pilot Task Force recommended that a

trial proceed (Jan)

Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS)

commenced in NSW, collecting data on illicit

drug market trends

Cannabis expiation scheme introduced

Party drug “Fantasy” or ”GHB” hit front page

news after a mass overdose at a

Broadbeach venue in the Gold Coast put

eight people on life-support systems (Oct).

1995

NCEPH/AIC team released report

recommending that a heroin trial proceed

and provided a detailed plan for a phased

series of studies that would begin with a

trial of heroin prescription for 40 patients. It

also recommended that 3 months of

consultation be undertaken to disseminate

findings of report (Jun).

ACT Government established a 29-member

Heroin Pilot Task Force chaired by Mr Kevin

Waller AM to consult with the community

and make recommendations about whether

or not the trial should proceed and how the

feasibility research might best be

implemented (Jul).

ACT Government released its first drug

strategy – ACT Drug Strategy 1995-97

(Sep).

First ecstasy-related death reported – 15

year old Anna Wood (Oct).

Formation of the 'Anna Wood Drug and

Alcohol Project' which sought to provide

more abstinence based drug education in

schools.

Evaluation of the Needle Syringe Vending

Machines at Kings Cross, Rozelle and

Parramatta released. Report concluded that

the machines were used by a broader range

of injectors compared to those who used the

staffed service at the community health

centres, and that there was an increase in

inquiries about hepatitis C issues due to

information provided at the machines.

Cabramatta police began high profile buy-

bust interventions aimed at high and mid

level deals in efforts to reduce heroin

market.

Second Queensland Drug Strategy released

1994

Inquiry into police corruption launched.

Commissioner: The Hon Justice JRT Wood

(May).

NSW Hepatitis C Taskforce established

1993

First Queensland Drug Strategy released

1992

Simple Cannabis Offence Notice (SCON)

expiation scheme for cannabis offences

introduced - enabled cannabis offenders

possessing <25 grams of cannabis or <5

plants to avoid a criminal conviction by

payment of a $100 fine

First NSW Drug Strategy released

12 month trial of Needle Syringe Vending

Machines commenced at Kings Cross,

Rozelle and Parramatta

1991

Select committee of the ACT Legislative

Assembly proposed expiation scheme for

cannabis and a heroin trial

National Centre for Epidemiology and

Population Health (NCEPH) and the

Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC)

began a study to determine heroin trial

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Year

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

Queensland

feasibility (1991-1995)

1990

Misuse of Drugs Act NT 1990 adopted. This

entered into force in Nov.

1989

1989 Drugs of Dependence Act (DODA)

The Treatment Referral Program (TRP) post

sentencing diversion program for illicit drug-

related offenders

commenced under the DODA (Mar)

Select committee appointed to report on

HIV, illegal drugs and prostitution

First Needle and Syringe Exchange Program

opened in ACT

User group - New South Wales Users and

AIDS Association (NUAA) formed

User group - Northern Territory Users Forum

(TUF) formed

First Needle and Syringe Exchange Program

opened in NT

Criminal Justice Commission established as

a result of the Fitzgerald Inquiry

Changes to Drugs Misuse Act (as amended)

1989 enabled supply of needles &

introduction of Needle and Syringe

Exchange Program in Qld

1988

Australian Capital Territory (Self-

Government) Act (Cth) passed creating a

legislative assembly and giving it limited

powers of self-government

User group - Australian Capital Territory IV

League (ACTIV League) formed

Needle and Syringe Exchange Programs

(later called Needle Syringe Programs) were

widely implemented in NSW

Commission of Inquiry into Possible Illegal

Activities and Associated Police Misconduct

(Fitzgerald Inquiry) report released

User group - Queensland IV AIDS

Association (QuIVAA) formed

1987

ACT Drug Indicators Project pilot

commenced (1987-1989). Project linked

individual record data from the drug

treatment and criminal justice systems in

the aim of increasing understanding of the

incidence, character and treatment and

criminal justice responses to illicit drug use.

NSW Government amended the Drug Misuse

and Trafficking Act 1985 legalising

possession of needle and syringes and

established Needle and Syringe Exchange

Programs (later called Needle Syringe

Programs)

AIDS and Drug Information Collective

formed as lobby group

Changes to Drugs Misuse Act (as amended)

1987 established a new offence for

inappropriate disposal of needles and

syringes (Sep)

1986

First Needle and Syringe Exchange Program

opened - Darlinghurst (Nov)

NSW Government established drug store-

based needle and syringe distribution

scheme (Dec)

Drugs Misuse Act 1986 adopted

Possession of needles and syringes

decriminalised

First distribution programs of single syringes

commenced

1985

Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985

adopted

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

The Australian (illicit) drug policy timeline: 1985-2019: SA, Tas, Vic and WA

Year

South Australia

Tasmania

Victoria

Western Australia

2019

Safer music event guidelines: improving

safety and reducing harms at music events

released. The guidelines were developed by

Drug and Alcohol Services South Australian

in collaboration with SA Police and other

stakeholders. Key recommendations

including the provision of chill-out areas,

free drinking water at multiple locations,

dedicated, equipped and accessible first-aid

locations and safe transport options (Mar).

SA Government and SA Police signed off on

protocols to trial the deployment of drug

detection dogs in public high schools. (NB

there were no provisions for deployment at

private schools). Under the protocol dogs

can be deployed on invitation of principals

or at the direction of SA Police and used to

sniff lockers, bags and corridors. If

successful it will be rolled out further (May).

Minister for Health and Wellbeing was asked

about pill testing at festivals and stated the

SA Marshall Liberal government does not

support pill testing at events. He noted they

continue to monitor evidence-based

research from around the world and are

committed to implementing alternative

strategies that can improve safety and

reduce adverse health outcomes such as via

the SA safer music event guidelines and the

use of chill out areas, but do not believe

that the safety of these events would be

enhanced by pill testing (16 May).

Motion against pill testing at events

debated. This (a) acknowledged the

government's strong focus on preventing

the uptake of illicit drug use, reducing the

harmful effects of licit and illicit drugs and

offering pathways out of harmful drug use;

(b) supports the safer music event

guidelines to improve safety and reduce

harms at events and multiple steps in that

to reduce harm and (c) supported the state

government's position against pill testing at

events. The motion was carried (Jun).

7th report of the National Wastewater Drug

Monitoring Program released and showed SA

had the highest average capital city

consumption of methylamphetamine, and

together with Qld the highest average

regional consumption of cannabis, and the

highest average regional consumption of

Tasmanian Liberal MP Sue Hickey gave

support for a trial of pill testing, noting that

‘I really think it’s a health issue not just a

policing issue’ and that we have to stop

saying ‘no’ as we know no does not work.

She noted her decision to support a trial had

come about after seeing the stances of the

Australian Medical Association, the Royal

College of General Practitioners and former

Australian Federal Police commissioner Mick

Palmer (Mar).

Motion for pill testing trial debated in

Tasmanian parliament. This called on the

government to acknowledge that pill testing

is an evidence-based health service, that

there have been two successful pilots

conducted in Australia, and that pill testing

is supported by numerous peak bodies

including the Australian Medical Association,

the Royal College of General Practitioners,

the Rural Doctors Association of Australia,

the Public Health Association of Australia

and Community Legal Centres Tasmania. It

further called on the government to explore

how a trial could be conducted in Tasmania

over the 2019-2020 summer festival

season. The motion was negated with 4

votes for and 8 votes against (Aug 13).

Tasmanian Government reaffirmed it would

not support a trial of pill testing at

Tasmanian music festivals, arguing ‘there is

no safe use of any illicit drug and it’s

reckless to suggest otherwise. The idea that

a testing service can indicate that an illegal

drug is free of certain contaminants sends a

very mixed and risky message’ (Nov).

A 20-year old man died after a suspected

drug overdose at the Beyond the Valley

festival (Jan 1).

City of Port Phillip renewed calls from two

years prior to allow it to become home to

Victoria's first pill-testing trial, noting that

since then "there's been a bitter harvest of

dead bodies around the country" and it is

"unacceptable that governments turn their

backs on this anymore" (Jan).

Family Drug Treatment Court opened in

Shepperton, following a three-year

Broadmeadows pilot. This is the first such

regional site (Mar).

Analysis of the Victorian Medically

Supervised Injecting Centre showed that in

the first year of operation, from 30 June

2018 to 30 June 2019, there were:

• 2,908 registered clients using the

service

• 61,823 visits including a supervised

injection

• 1,232 overdoses safely managed

by staff inside the MSIR.

• Staff also provided:

• 5,082 on-site services to registered

clients. This includes health

promotion in relation to injecting,

and on-the-spot health and social

support.

• 1,393 referrals to co-located

services and clinics, and external

services. This provides a gateway

to supports including alcohol and

other drug treatment, primary

care, oral health, blood-borne

virus treatment, mental health

support, housing and

homelessness services and legal

support (Jun).

Two AOD outreach workers employed by

North Richmond Community Health centre

were arrested over drug trafficking. Media

reports wrongly claimed the workers worked

at the North Richmond Community Health

supervised injecting room incident (Oct 24).

Heated media debate about the North

Richmond Community Health argued the

supervised injecting centre had become a

honeypot for drug dealing or other criminal

WA Government outlined their response to

the Methamphetamine Action Taskforce

report. The supported in full or supported in

principal most recommendations. The one

not supported was the recommendation to

introduce prison based needle syringe

exchange, with the government noting “the

government is not considering the

introduction of needle and syringe exchange

in the prison setting” but that “alternative

harm minimisation strategies involving the

expansion and continuation of existing

programs will be progressed to reduce the

harms associated with illicit drug use and to

meet the diverse needs of prisoners.” The

government response committed an

additional $42.5 million to reduce

methamphetamine use and harms in WA,

including:

• $4.8 million for a new 10-bed crisis

centre (medical withdrawal beds)

to provide safe places for

individuals and families in crisis;

• $2.3 million for 4 new detox beds

in the Kimberley;

• $9.2 million for specialist AOD

youth services in the Kimberley

including involving resi rehab,

detox and post-rehab support;

• $20.1 million for the North West

Drug and Alcohol Support Program

for increased counselling and other

treatment options in the Pilbara,

Kimberley & Gascoyne regions;

• $1.5 million to expand NPS in

regional areas inc Bunbury;

• $1.05 million for AOD education of

at-risk students;

• $631,000 to expand a transitional

housing and support program;

• $200,000 to extend a mental

health police co-response model in

regional areas (7 May).

New discussion paper “Managing public

health risks at events in WA” released by

WA Health for public discussion and

feedback. This notes that events (e.g.

festivals) are a vital part of WA life and

culture, but that events in WA are currently

managed through Public Buildings

Regulations. WA Health thus proposed to

update regulations to ensure public health

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Year

South Australia

Tasmania

Victoria

Western Australia

fentanyl in the country (Jun).

New research released: “Spatio‐temporal

assessment of illicit drug use at large scale:

evidence from 7 years of international

wastewater monitoring.” This compared

wastewater monitoring over 7 years (2011

to 2017) across 120 cities in 37 countries

and showed that of them Adelaide had the

highest recorded levels of

methamphetamine, followed by Seattle

(Oct).

history and calls to relocate the centre

and/or shut it down. Of note: The Victorian

Shadow Minister for Police and Community

Safety David Southwick argued the arrests

had proven this point: 'In 15 months, Daniel

Andrews has turned a safe community

health centre with a thriving maternal and

child service into a drug-dealing hotspot.'

Media noted some residents wanted the

supervised injecting centre moved, whilst

others wanted it shut down (Oct).

The Victorian Government maintained its

support for the MSIR's two-year trial, which

will continue with Dr Nico Clark as its

Medical Director. The Victorian Government

commissioned an independent review of the

AOD Program at NRCH (Oct).

Victoria ambulance union calls for back of

house pill testing at festivals - whereby any

drugs confiscated by police would be tested

and alerts issued on social media (Nov).

Melbourne City Council provided in principal

support for a pill testing trial at festivals and

offered to deliver a pilot in their municipality

(Nov).

Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances

Amendment (Pill Testing Pilot for Drug Harm

Reduction) Bill 2019 debated as a private

members bill from the Greens and Reason

Party. The bill proposed to establish a new

legislative scheme to allow for the licensing

and operation of one mobile drug-checking

service, and the licence and operation of

one fixed premises drug-checking service as

a two-year pilot. On introducing the bill it

was noted that the evidence of trials in

Canberra and around the world through over

20 years of operation of such services has

shown that drug checking services are

successful in educating clients about the

risks of drug taking, and in reducing drug

taking and drug-related deaths, and the

overwhelming evidence of support from

agencies like the AMA and NSW Coroner for

such services. It noted the bill would provide

a robust framework to ensure access to a)

quality compositional testing and timely

information e.g. about purity levels, b)

evidence based information about the likely

effects of consuming the drug, including

potentially fatal risks, and information about

associated drug related harms such as

dehydration, heatstroke and risks of

combining substances e.g. alcohol and

risks e.g. AOD use are appropriately

planned for and managed at future events

through the use of new, event-specific

regulations under the Public Health Act, with

updated events guidelines about key issues

including provisions for first aid planning

(Mar).

A tonne of cocaine and ecstasy were seized

and foreign nations arrested after a yacht

hit a reef and ran aground in the Abrolhos

Islands off the Mid-West coast of WA (near

Geraldton). Two foreign nationals a 51-year-

old French national and a 34-year-old

English man were arrested. A 45-year-old

US man and a 35-year-old UK man were

subsequently arrested in the Perth CBD

(Sep).

The WA Select Committee into Alternative

Approaches to Reducing Illicit Drug Use and

its Effects on the Community released their

report: “Help not handcuffs.” This noted

people who use drugs may avoid criminal

penalties through the WA Police Force Drug

Diversion Program, which diverts low-level

offenders to drug education sessions. Drug

diversion is a cost-effective option for

reducing imprisonment and increasing

treatment uptake, but that strict eligibility

criteria and other limitations mean Western

Australians are the least likely in the country

to be diverted from prosecution for minor

drug offences. The Committee found that a

number of approaches used within Australia

and internationally have successfully

reduced drug-related harms by shifting

policy priorities from prohibition towards

health, prevention and harm reduction. Key

recommendations:

• That the WA Government commit

to defining and treating drug use as

a health and social issue;

• That the Mental Health Commission

and Western Australia Police Force

work together to investigate,

develop and implement either

Option 1—an expanded Police Drug

Diversion Program or Option 2 –

decriminalization;

• That current drug trafficking

threshold limits giving rise to intent

to supply be reviewed;

• That the WA drug court be

extended to regional WA;

• That funding for treatment and

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Year

South Australia

Tasmania

Victoria

Western Australia

mdma and c) referral pathways to AOD and

mental health services. It further noted the

use of on site and off-site services was

deliberate in recognition that drug use is not

confined to major summer festivals (Nov

13).

An independent review on the North

Richmond Community Health AOD Program

released, with 10 recommendations. This

included strengthening governance

arrangements, relocating the AOD outreach

services within North Richmond Community

Health until the Medically Supervised

Injecting Centre trial is completed (Dec).

harm reduction services be

increased in line with projected

demand;

• That demand for a drug

consumption room in Perth be

ascertained;

• That strategies to optimize safety

at music festivals be considered,

including trial of a drug checking

service (Nov).

2018

Coronial Inquiry into the death of Lewis

McPherson aged 18 found the police missed

multiple opportunities to prevent the

shooting. The gunman, Liam Humbles, who

was aged 17, was intoxicated by alcohol and

drugs at the time and had been given five

prior drug diversions, including at least one

instance (his fourth diversion) where police

had received information that Humbles was

dealing in cannabis and ‘pills’ and that he

carried a firearm, at least inferentially, in

connection with that activity. The deputy

coroner found that police investigations into

information they had received about

Humbles was "flawed and inadequate": 'The

issuing of a drug diversion to Humbles on

this occasion was inappropriate and not in

accordance with SAPOL General Order -

Drug Diversion having regard to the

suspicion that he was trafficking in

cannabis." Key recommendations:

• that the drug diversion process in

relation to children be re-evaluated in

its entirety.

• that there be a limit to the number of

drug diversions that a child may

undergo (and that the stipulation within

both the PDDI and SAPOL General

Order – Drug Diversion that there is no

limit to the number of diversions that a

child can undergo be deleted)

• that the maximum monetary penalty for

the offences of possession, smoking and

consumption of cannabis, cannabis

resin and cannabis oil be increased from

$500 to a figure that reflects the

deleterious effects that the consumption

of those substances can have on the

Australian Medical Association Tasmanian

President Stuart Day announced that pill

testing should be trailed in Tasmania, noting

it provides an opportunity for early

intervention and for trained medical

professionals to provide information to

festival attendees (May).

2017-2018 Review of Tasmanian Opioid

Pharmacotherapy Program (TOPP) Policy

and Clinical Standards released (Jun).

Proposed pill testing legislation to allow

testing of drugs at music festivals was

debated in Parliament. It was voted down by

both the Liberal and Labor parties (Nov).

New changes commenced to Tasmanian

roadside drug testing – with a switch to oral

fluid testing of drivers, instead of a

requirement to take all drivers to hospital to

obtain blood samples. This removed a

previous inconsistency in practice with most

other states and territories (3 Dec).

Vic Parliamentary Report on Drug Law

Reform released. This noted the importance

of a health response to illicit drugs, and

ongoing difficulties in accessing medical

cannabis, and gaps and inequity in police

drug diversion across Victoria, due in part to

the discretionary nature of programs. The

report outlined 50 recommendations,

including that the Vic Government a) work

with the Cth to improve patient access to

medicinal cannabis products; b) remove the

prohibition of peer distribution of sterile

needles and syringes; c) review threshold

amounts for drug quantities to appropriately

distinguish between drug traffickers and

people who possess illicit substances for

personal use; d) maintain current drug

offences in law but treat personal use and

possession as a health issue by exploring

alternative models such as the Portuguese

decriminalisation or codifying police drug

diversion to ensure all offenders are offered

a drug diversion; e) establish an early

warning system; and f) commission an

independent evaluation of the use of drug

detection dogs at music festivals and other

public spaces. Report also noted the

increasing development of cannabis

regulatory models for adult use across the

globe and recommended continued

monitoring of the outcomes of international

developments in regulated supply of

cannabis (Mar).

The Victorian Government committed

$100.45 million in the 2018-2019 Budget

over four years to establish new ‘emergency

department hubs’ in six Melbourne hospitals

- Monash Medical Centre, St Vincent’s, the

Royal Melbourne, Geelong, Sunshine and

Wandoo Rehabilitation Prison – the first

alcohol and drug treatment prison for

women opened. This is a first in WA and in

Australia. Unlike other facilities, it offers

dedicated, intensive trauma-informed

treatment within a therapeutic community,

that is supported via multi-disciplinary case-

management to reduce addiction, improve

mental and physical health and reduce re-

offending (Aug).

Western Australian Alcohol and Drug

Interagency Strategy 2018-2022 released.

This was developed through firstly

evaluation and reviews of the Drug and

Alcohol Interagency Strategy 2011-2015

and drug and alcohol trends and

consultation with key stakeholders, the

community and the WA Drug and Alcohol

Strategic Senior Officers’ Group.

Consultation included targeted consultation

with key stakeholders and peak bodies (Dec

2016 to Feb 2017), statewide consultation

(Aug 2017) and an online survey (Aug

2017).

Phase one of consultation on the draft

Western Australian Mental Health, Alcohol

and Other Drug Accommodation and

Support Strategy 2018-2025 completed.

This will be the first WA framework for the

development of appropriate accommodation

and support for people with severe mental

health issues and/or mild, moderate and

severe alcohol and other drug issues. Phase

one of the consultation occurred from March

2016 until July 2018, and involved 50 NGO,

peak body and government agencies and

more than 30 consumer consultants, carers

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Year

South Australia

Tasmania

Victoria

Western Australia

individual, especially the young (Feb).

SA Police investigation revealed disturbing

level of ‘squalor’ in Murray Bridge and that

children as young as 11 were using ice:

“What we found was a really disturbing level

of squalor and lifestyles well below what you

would consider Australia, as a free and rich

country, should actually be tolerating (Feb).

Liberal Government elected on platform of a

‘war on drugs’, including provisions to send

drug detection dogs into schools and

toughening penalties for cannabis

possession (Mar).

Methamphetamine super-lab located in

Morphett Vale in Adelaide’s south with 120

kilograms of powder — suspected of being

methamphetamine — and 11 kilograms of

what police believe to be crystal

methamphetamine or "ice’ (2 Oct).

Industrial sized methamphetamine super-lab

uncovered on Croydon, in Adelaide's north-

west - the biggest methamphetamine lab in

SA’s history. Three men (47-year-old Troy

Alviti, 58-year-old Mark Middleton and 39-

year-old Nicholas Wardle) were arrested.

The lab housed enough chemicals to make

127kg pure methamphetamine = $20

million worth of the drug (29 Oct).

Statutes Amendment (Drug Offences) Bill

2018 issued by Government in the goal of

increasing penalties for cannabis possession.

The initial bill proposed reintroducing the

option of imprisonment for people who did

not receive a cannabis expiation notice and

increasing the maximum fine from $200 to

$2000. The option of imprisonment was

removed post a public backlash, albeit not

the larger fine (Nov).

Statutes Amendment (Drug Offences) Act

2018 adopted. This limited the number of

drug diversions in the PDDI before a person

must be charged with an offence from

unlimited to 2 in a 4-year period. This

applied to both youth and adults (Nov).

The Cth Department of Health announced a

$20 million boost for SA drug and alcohol

treatment services in regional and rural

areas, including Ceduna; Port Augusta;

Fleurieu Peninsula; Peterborough and Mid

North; Murray Bridge; Playford; Port

Adelaide; and Onkaparinga. This was

particularly targeted at methamphetamine

Frankston Hospitals - to better support and

respond to people experiencing a crisis

related to their mental health or substance

use. Introduced post the increasing numbers

of people presenting at emergency

departments for repeat visits, the hubs are

designed to provide targeted assessments

and specialist care from medical, mental

health, and social work professionals and

where needed overnight stays (Jun).

North Richmond Community Health

supervised injecting room opened lead by Dr

Nico Clark as its Medical Director. In its first

week of operation, the medically supervised

injecting room saw over 400 visits and staff

responded to 12 overdoses (Jun 30).

Vic Government response to drug law

reform inquiry released. Concluded that a

more health approach is needed to illicit

drugs, and they were working to streamline

access to medical cannabis and to

“strengthen” the Vic Police drug diversion

program (Aug).

Reason Party MP Fiona Patten proposed at

the Victorian election to legalise, regulate

and tax recreational cannabis for adults

aged 18 and over and introduction of strict

product safety and product quality

requirements. Costings from the

Parliamentary Budget Office estimated this

would increase the state’s budget by $204.6

million over the forward estimates (Dec).

and family members. Key issues highlighted

in the consultation included a) that access to

safe and affordable housing is at a crisis

point in WA, b) that this has fueled

significant wait times (5 to 7 years), c)

specific gaps in housing and support in rural

and remote locations and for youth and

service access barriers for people who have

been homeless for a long time, and d) high

incidence of evictions of people with mental

health and AOD issues from public housing,

private rental and community housing. The

consultation further highlighted the need to

not only increase housing stock and linkages

between accommodation and support

services but also addressing stigma and

discrimination of people with MH and AOD

issues (Jul).

A bipartisan Legislative Council

Parliamentary Select Committee, Chaired by

Hon. Alison Xamon MLC was established to

conduct an Inquiry into alternate

approaches to reducing illicit drug use and

its effects on the community, specifically to

inquire into and report on:

• other Australian state and

international approaches (including

Portugal) to reducing harm from

illicit drug use;

• a comparison of effectiveness and

costs to the community of drug

related laws between WA and other

jurisdictions; &

• the applicability of alternative

approaches (Oct 17).

The Methamphetamine Action Plan (MAP)

Taskforce Final Report released. This

included 57 recommendations for

government relating to education,

intervention, treatment and support

services, reducing harm and use, meeting

regional needs, pathways following

treatment, cross-sector collaboration and

evaluation. Specific recommendations

included:

• Work to reduce the stigma

associated with methamphetamine use;

• Work with AOD service providers to

establish a centralised waitlist database to

better identify & utilise existing treatment

capacity;

• Establish an appropriate alternative

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

Year

South Australia

Tasmania

Victoria

Western Australia

(Nov).

Nine people arrested after nine-month

investigation into trafficking of

methamphetamine in Murray Bridge (Dec).

crisis intervention response that would

provide a short term place for

methamphetamine users when they are in

crisis that will keep them, their families and

the community safe;

• Mandate a minimum level of AOD

education in all schools.

• Propose to the Ministerial Forum on

Alcohol and Drugs that future Cth

Government resources allocated to address

methamphetamine use should be

apportioned based on the relative 'need' or

magnitude of the problem in each state;

• Ensure that all persons in custody,

including remanded and sentenced

offenders, are assessed for AOD use,

including methamphetamine, and are

provided with intervention and treatment to

meet the needs identified

• Introduce needle and syringe

exchange programs in WA prisons (26 Nov).

Three people died (a 21-year-old man, who

had been at the Metro City nightclub, and

two women aged 23 and 25) on 7 December

and there were a further 91 non-fatal

overdoses between 4 and 7 December which

were suspected to be due to GHB. This is

the largest number of overdoses in Perth

since the 1990s heroin epidemic, leading

WA Police to issue a warning that “there is a

bad batch of drugs out there” (Dec 9).

2017

SA Ministerial Crystal Methamphetamine

Taskforce. Established due to rapid and

continued growth of ice use and harms,

evidenced by wastewater analysis showing

consumption of methamphetamine had

tripled in the last 4 years. The taskforce

held six community forums: Mawson Lakes;

Whyalla; Murray Bridge; Mount Gambier;

Port Pirie; McLaren Vale as well as an online

survey (Feb).

SA Ministerial Crystal Methamphetamine

Taskforce report released. Noted that

methamphetamine use tends to be higher in

SA than other parts of the country but that

there is large variance e.g. some regional

communities have much lower than usual

rates. Also noted 60% users are occasional

who don’t need treatment but could benefit

from peer education, 25% regular who could

benefit from brief interventions (outpatient

counselling) and 15% are dependent where

intensive treatment is recommended. Key

22-year-old Jacob Langford died of multi-

drug toxicity (including amyl nitrate) at the

Rainbow Serpent music festival (Jan).

Port Phillip Council called on the Victorian

Government to immediately legislate to

allow and fund pilot pill testing facilities at

“consenting clubs, festivals and dance

parties in the City of Port Phillip to minimise

the harms associated with illicit drugs” (Feb

1).

Inquiry into Drug Law Reform undertaken

by the Victorian Law Reform, Road and

Community Safety Committee. This

commenced in Feb 2017 and ran until March

2018. The terms of reference were to

inquire into, consider and report, on: 1. The

effectiveness of laws, procedures and

regulations relating to illicit and synthetic

drugs and the misuse of prescription

medication in minimising drug-related

health, social and economic harm; and 2.

The practice of other Australian states and

New funding announced in 2017-2018

budget to undertake consultation, analysis

and modelling about drug and alcohol

service needs in the Kimberley in light of

government commitments to expand service

provision in the region (Jun).

1.2 tonne of methamphetamine - Australia’s

biggest methamphetamine seizure was

seized at the Geraldton port, WA. Eight men

were also arrested. The vessel was

transporting drugs manufactured in China

that had been transported by a Chinese

"mother ship" then onto the smaller marine

vessel Valkoista. The drugs were alleged to

be destined for the east coast of Australia

(Sep).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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recommendations: 1) need for a stepped

approach to treatment provision– not just

more residential rehabilitation – and for

services close to homes and support

networks, 2) need to better support

families, 3) need to increase capacity

building e.g. sports programs and

community organisations, 4) need to better

reduce stigma to improve service access

and 5) need to improve supply reduction

through increased law enforcement powers

and resources (Feb).

SA Gov launched an $8 million Illicit Drug

Action Plan to ‘stop the hurt’ Illicit caused by

crystal methamphetamine. Main priority –

expanding drug treatment – mainly

counselling – 50% increase in outpatient

spots - and 12 new residential rehab beds–

$3.6 million. Other strategies:

• Additional drug dogs $0.549m

• Additional resourcing for family

support groups $0.560m

• Supporting employers to better

respond to substance abuse in the

workplace $0.498m

• Assisting community organisations

to respond to ice abuse issues

$0.3m

• Assisting grass roots sporting clubs

$0.3m

• Additional TruNarc electronic drug

testing implements $0.287m

• Dob in a dealer campaign $0.2m

(Jun)

territories and overseas jurisdictions and

their approach to drug law reform and how

other positive reforms could be adopted into

Victorian law. The Committee received 231

submissions from a diverse range of experts

and stakeholders working in various areas of

drug policy and law reform, including

advocacy groups, not-for-profit

organisations, the alcohol and other drug

treatment sector and other service

providers, government departments, health

and legal professionals, medical and health

peak bodies, community legal centres,

research institutes, academics as well as

individual members of the community. The

Committee also held nine days of public

hearings in Melbourne and Sydney, travelled

to Wellington, New Zealand and had an

international study tour of Geneva,

Switzerland; Lisbon, Portugal; London,

United Kingdom; Vancouver, Canada;

Denver and Sacramento, United States of

America (Mar).

Melbourne Drug Court opened:

complementing the 15 year old Dandenong

drug court with a capacity of 170 (cf 70 in

Dandenong) (Mar).

Victorian Alcohol and Drug Collection

(VADC) commenced as the new data

collection specification for all AOD treatment

providers in Victoria, with implementation

over an 18-month period. In recognition of

the need to reduce administrative burdens

the VDAC has approximately 80 data

elements - less than half the elements in the

current Alcohol and Drug Information

System (ADIS) collection. VDAC is thus

designed to reduce administration burdens,

better reflect current service delivery, align

with national minimum data set reporting

requirements, enable monthly reporting and

increased ease of data sharing (Mar).

903kg of methamphetamine seized, hidden

in a shipment of wooden floorboards from

China (Apr).

New report released by the Penington

Institute: “Not just naloxone: Insights into

emerging models to reduce drug harms.”

The report was commissioned by the

Victorian Department of Health and Human

Services to examine and report on practical

strategies to respond to an overdose; the

role of peer workers and peer-led models in

harm reduction and related areas, such as

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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behavioural health; and other models and

approaches that could be implemented in

Victoria to reduce drug-related harms

particularly overdose (Jul).

The Victorian Government released the

“Victorian Drug Rehabilitation Plan: New

Action to help save Victorian Lives” in

response to an escalation in illicit

drug-related death (including a near

doubling in the number of deaths since

2012). This provided $87 million to address

drug harms. Key measures included:

• Provision of an additional 100

residential rehabilitation beds

across the state (to treat up to 400

extra people per year)

• Trial of a medically supervised

injecting room at North Richmond

Community Health

• Increased brokerage for people and

families trying to locate drug

treatment services (Oct).

Victorian Parliament passed legislation for a

two-year trial of a medically supervised

injecting room, to be operated by medical

practitioners at North Richmond Community

Health. The North Richmond Community

Health supervised injecting room is

modelled on the successful centre at

Sydney’s Kings Cross and will undergo an

independent evaluation (19 Dec).

2016

The SA Government issued a public health

warning following spate of heroin-related

overdose deaths: 10 deaths, 8 of which

were due to heroin alone and two to heroin

and fentanyl (Aug).

Criminal Assets Confiscation (Prescribed

Drug Offenders) Amendment Act 2016

adopted. The act, the declared drug

trafficker law, targets repeat offenders and

allows for the confiscation of all of a

declared drug trafficker’s property, whether

or not established as lawfully acquired and

whether or not there is any proof about the

property. Assets and property can be

restrained pending prosecution of matters

before the court. A dealer will be declared a

prescribed drug offender if found guilty of

three indictable drug offences over ten years

– excluding time in jail – or found guilty of

one offence involving trafficking a

commercial quantity e.g. 500g of

amphetamine or 2.5kg of cannabis.

The Minister for Corrections, Dr Vanessa

Goodwin, launched ‘Breaking the Cycle- A

Safer Community: Strategies for Improving

the Throughcare for Offenders 2016-2020’.

Key goals in relation to AOD were:

• to increase access to withdrawal, drug

treatment and abstinence units; &

• to implement a Tasmanian Prison

Service Drug and Alcohol Strategy

(Aug).

Premier Will Hodgman and the Minister for

Health Michael Ferguson announced that

specialist medical practitioners would be

able to prescribe medicinal cannabis for

people with serious or chronic illnesses in

Tasmania from 2017, via a Controlled

Access Scheme (CAS). Key details of the

scheme:

• There will be no limit on diseases

treatable;

• The laws on cannabis use will not be

Access to Medicinal Cannabis Act 2016

adopted. This included a state-based

scheme to allow the lawful cultivation and

manufacture of medicinal cannabis products

for use by a limited cohort of patients with

particular medical conditions and symptoms

(to be prescribed in regulation at a later

date). Children with severe intractable

epilepsy will be given the first access to

medicinal cannabis products in early 2017

(26 Apr).

Victorian Government announced a new

funding package ($28.5 million) to support

the roll out of medical cannabis including:

• the establishment of an Office of

Medicinal Cannabis to oversee

manufacturing and all clinical

aspects of the medicinal cannabis

framework and an Independent

Medical Advisory Committee;

• a new medical cannabis cultivation

WA Government announced a new 2016

“Western Australian Meth Strategy”. Key

steps include:

• Additional funding and support to

expand the WA Police meth teams

to target methamphetamine

supply;

• 52 extra dedicated rehabilitation

spaces for methamphetamine;

• A pilot specialist meth clinic to

provide rapid assessment, early

intervention and treatment

including outpatient withdrawal

within the Next Step Drug and

Alcohol Service in East Perth.

• A new Ice Helpline linking directly

to its existing alcohol and other

drug support line; &

• Proposed legislation for involuntary

drug treatment (May).

A trawler was seized off the coast of

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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Confiscated assets will be paid into a

Rehabilitation Fund and used to fund

programs and facilities for the benefit of

victims, offenders and other crime-

prevention initiatives (Aug).

South Australian Alcohol and Other Drug

Strategy 2017-2021 released (Nov).

SA Police figures showed that 5569 drivers

returned a positive drug test 2015-16 in SA

– almost as many as the 5817 caught over

the 0.05 blood-alcohol limit, and that since

2010-11, drug-driving detections have more

than tripled from 1832, while the number of

positive alcohol tests has almost halved

from 10,072 (Dec).

SA Road Safety Minister Peter Malinauskas

announced tough new laws will be

introduced for drug driving: including for a

first offence an automatic driver’s license

suspension of three or six months (instead

of the current penalty excludes license

suspension for a first offence), a minimum

of 12 months suspension for a second

offence and a minimum of 24 months

suspension for a third offence (Dec).

changed; but the CAS will allow access

to medical cannabis products grown

lawfully under Commonwealth licenses;

• Access will be limited to specialist

medical practitioners: not all general

practitioners. It will thus limit access to

treatment of complex medical

conditions where the patient is under

the care of a medical specialist;

• Expert panel will assess applications

from doctors; &

• Government will work with business to

produce products locally (Aug).

Tasmanian Police argued that the popularity

of ‘ice’ / methamphetamine has fueled an

increase in drug mules bringing

methamphetamine into Tasmania. This is

driven by the absence of local manufacture

of the drug (Sep).

Tasmanian Police Minister Rene Hidding

promised to investigate having a register for

people accessing medicinal cannabis to

quarantine them from prosecution (Oct).

trial, and further product

development and the development

of clinical, public and

manufacturing guidance material

• research grants to build the

evidence base for medicinal

cannabis; &

• the establishment of a hardship

fund to help make medicinal

cannabis more affordable for

parents doing it tough (Apr).

AOD Data Collection Redevelopment Project

commenced with goal to: Develop new data

requirements for the AOD sector to ensure

that the department has the necessary data

to fulfil its function as system manager, as

well as to identify a more efficient and user

friendly method for data submission,

minimise the data collection burden on

service providers and ensure data collection

flexibility over time to meet emerging policy

and funding initiatives (Jun).

Medical Advisory Committee on Medicinal

Cannabis (the Committee) established,

chaired by Professor James Alexander Angus

AO, to advise on matters including product

availability (which medicinal cannabis

products should be approved medicinal

cannabis products), patient eligibility and

other clinical matters (Oct).

2016-17 Victorian State Budget provided a

$57.6 million in new funds to respond to ice

and other drugs. Key funds included:

• $5.5 million for further training and

support for frontline workers

• $6 million for a new alcohol and

other drugs residential

rehabilitation service in the

Grampians area, servicing the

Ballarat community

• $10 million for renewal of mental

health and AOD facilities

• $32 million to expand the Drug

Court of Victoria

• $3.8 million over four years for the

Mother and Baby residential

withdrawal unit. (Apr 27).

Penington Institute released a new report:

“Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2016.”

This analysed overdose deaths from 2004

until 2014 and showed:

• Deaths due to accidental overdose

grew substantially from 705 to

Geraldton WA in connection with a 182kg

seizure of ice, transported by a Chinese and

Malaysian syndicate (May).

Wastewater analysis of methamphetamine

levels in Perth, Bunbury and Geraldton

showed that about 1.6 kilograms of

methamphetamine was being consumed in

the metropolitan area each week, or 1.6

tonnes annually. It further showed levels

were highest in Bunbury: with levels that

were double that seen in Perth and

Geraldton (Oct).

Misuse of Drugs Amendment (Search

Powers) Act 2016 adopted, enabling new

search powers to target known drug transit

routes in rural/regional areas. Specifically it

gives police powers to declare a designated

area of up to 5 square kilometres a “a drug

detection area” if there reasonable grounds

to suspect that the area is being used or is

likely to be used for the transportation of

prohibited drugs, prohibited plants or

controlled precursors and to conduct a

search of trucks and vehicles in that area for

a period of up to 14 days (Nov).

The WA Government announced that from 1

November 2016 it will be legal for medical

cannabis to be grown in WA and for a doctor

to prescribe, and a pharmacist to dispense,

medicinal cannabis. This is in line with new

Cth laws enabling access to medical

cannabis, via the Narcotic Drugs

Amendment Act 2016. Any doctor wishing to

prescribe medicinal cannabis would need

approval from the Therapeutic Goods

Administration and an expert advisory

committee (Cannabis-Based Product

Advisory Committee), in the WA Department

of Health. Obtaining approval will require a

written application including:

• prescriber and patient details

• specific details of the desired therapy,

including name and source of product,

intended dose etc.

• indication for treatment

• relevant patient medical and medication

history, including details of current and

past treatments

• evidence of written informed consent

from the patient.

In WA only a pharmacist will be able to

dispense medicinal cannabis, with supply

from any other means remaining illegal

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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1,137 between 2004 and 2014: a

61% increase.

• Contrary to stereotypes Australians

aged 40-49 are the most likely to

die of a drug overdose.

• Large increases in overdose deaths

in rural and regional are driving the

overall increase.

• WA was the worst state for

overdose deaths per capita with 5.8

per 100,000 in 2014 followed by

NSW with 5.1 per 100,000 (Jul).

The Victorian Government announced it

would invest in a peer-led networks trial

across six hotspot areas for overdose,

including Brimbank/Maribyrnong, Greater

Dandenong, Greater Geelong, the City of

Melbourne, Port Phillip and the City of Yarra,

as a means to strengthen and improve the

scope for peer education in Victoria (Aug

31).

New residential withdrawal unit for mothers

with babies opened: providing a tailored

withdrawal services and extended support

(Nov).

2015

19-year-old Stefan Woodward fatally

overdosed, following collapsing at the

Stereosonic music festival in Adelaide, and

22 others were hospitalised for AOD issues

(Nov).

Senator Nick Xenophon called for an inquest

into deaths at Sterosonic music festival

(including that in NSW and that in SA):

including the responsibility of the

organisers, the role of police and health

professionals and also any warnings that

should have been given (Dec).

SA Health Minister Jack Snelling announced

new measures may be introduced at music

festivals in a bid to prevent further drug-

related deaths: including mandatory

warnings over public address systems about

the dangers of illicit drugs at such festivals

on days of extreme heat, and better drug

education campaigns. But he ruled out pill

testing as this could send the wrong

message (Dec).

Victorian Government established the

Department of Health & Human Services

(DHHS): bringing together the former

Department of Health, former Department

of Human Services and Sport and

Recreation Victoria. (Jan 1).

Attorney-General Martin Pakula appointed

lawyer Dr Ian Freckelton, QC, as Special

Commissioner to the Victorian Law Reform

Commission’s review into the use of

medicinal cannabis (Jan).

Dr Ian Freckelton, QC held nine public

consultations in metropolitan and regional

Victoria about medical cannabis and

released an issues paper that garnered 99

submissions about:

• How to define the exceptional

circumstances in which a person

should be allowed to use medicinal

cannabis

• How the law could be amended to

enable patients to obtain medicinal

cannabis while continuing to

prevent unauthorised access (Mar).

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews released a

new Victorian Ice Action Plan, including

$45.5 in expenditure. Measures included:

WA Minister for Mental Health Helen Morton

announced that the Government is spending

an extra $84M in 2015 on drug and alcohol

services (Feb).

WA Police Minister Liza Harvey announced a

joint State and Federal police task force to

address WA’s methamphetamine trade

(Feb).

Two Comanchero OMCG charged with

methamphetamine trafficking after police

seized almost 8KG of methamphetamine

(Feb).

The Mental Health Commission and the Drug

and Alcohol Office amalgamated on 1 July,

2015. The joined organisation is called the

Mental Health Commission (Jul).

WA Police launched a “Meth Enforcement

Action Plan” to target the supply of

methamphetamine in the communities. Key

actions:

• meth transport teams that are

deployed to key transport hubs, to

conduct searches of vehicles, truck,

trains and aircraft entering WA;

• establishment of dedicated meth

teams in organised crime squads,

targeted at high level dealers;

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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• $18 million to expand drug

treatment and rehabilitation

• $1.8 million in additional

investment for NSPs

• $4.5 million to assist the Victoria

Police’s Forensic Drug Branch in

profiling clandestine drug labs

• $15 million for new drug and booze

buses (Mar).

The Victorian Law Reform Commission's

Medicinal Cannabis report was tabled in

Parliament with the government accepting

all 42 recommendations, two accepted in

principle. It announced that it would legalise

access to medicinal cannabis in exceptional

circumstances from 2017 (Oct 6).

Victorian Parliament's Law Reform, Road

and Community Safety Committee Inquiry

established into illicit and synthetic drugs

and prescription medication. Terms of

reference included assessing:

• the effectiveness of drug treatment

programs in Victoria;

• the effectiveness of Victorian

government investment into illicit

drug supply reduction, demand

reduction and harm reduction

strategies and programs;

• the effectiveness of drug detection

programs including roadside

testing and deployment of drug

detection activities at events;

• the effectiveness of laws and

regulations relating to illicit and

synthetic drugs; and

• practices of other Australian states

and territories and overseas

jurisdictions and their approach to

drug law reform and how other

positive reforms could be adopted

to Victorian law (Nov).

• an intelligence Meth Desk to

support the meth teams;

• joint agency teams with the

Australian Crime Commission

specifically targeting meth money

trails (Aug).

WA Government announced it would pilot

wastewater testing of methamphetamine in

three metropolitan wastewater plants to

provide new insight into the extent of use

(Aug).

A 'one stop shop' for alcohol and drug

treatment opened in Joondalup to cater for

the region's growing population after a

move to larger premises by the North

Metropolitan Community Alcohol and Drug

Service (Sep).

Misuse of Drugs Amendment (Psychoactive

Substances) Act 2015 adopted (Oct). This

act sought to close a regulatory gap that

had enabled new and emerging

psychoactive substances to be sold because

they have not been captured by or regulated

via existing legislation. It banned the sale,

supply, manufacture, advertising and

promotion of any psychoactive substance

and any substance that purported to have a

psychoactive effect unless it is approved

through existing legislation or regulation. It

further provided WA Police with the power

to seize and destroy any substance that has,

or is said to have, a psychoactive effect;

and for penalties of up to $48,000 or four

years prison to be applied. The new powers

commenced 18 Nov 2015 (Oct).

The Western Australian Mental Health,

Alcohol and Other Drug Services Plan 2015-

2025 released. The plan outlines a 10 year

roadmap to reshape mental health, alcohol

and other drug services in WA (including in

correctional settings) including the

investment required to achieve the optimal

mix and level of mental health, alcohol and

other drug services in the short (by the end

of 2017), medium (by the end of 2020) and

long term (by the end of 2025) to best meet

the identified needs of the population. The

plan was developed by the Mental Health

Commission, the former Drug and Alcohol

Office, with the input from the Department

of Health and Department of Corrective

Services, stakeholders, consumers, carers

and families, expert reference groups and

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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sector organisations. Key areas for AOD

include:

• To expand prevention strategies to

prevent and delay the onset of AOD

use, leading to savings in

treatment costs

• Improving continuum of care and

appropriate mix of services to

improve patient flow and reduce

waiting lists and relapse

• Treatment services being more

accessible, with a greater reach of

services across the State:

particularly in regional areas (Dec).

2014

South Australian police detect largest known

drug lab in state. The lab detected in Walker

Flats included an industrial pill press, 60L

chemicals and over 100,000 ecstasy pills

worth approximately $30m (Feb).

SA Labor party re-elected with support of

Independent MP Geoff Brock (Mar).

Tasmania elected a Liberal majority

Government, following Labor Party rule for a

period of 16 years. Key policy platforms:

• To abolish suspended sentences,

including for serious drug offences;

• To break the cycle of youth crime;

• To establish a serious and organised

crime squad in the Tasmania Police

(Mar).

Legislative Council Sessional Committee

Government Administration commenced

a parliamentary inquiry into “Legalized

medicinal cannabis”. Terms of reference

included focus on: 1) efficacy and safety of

natural botanical medicinal cannabis

flower and extracted cannabinoids for

medical purposes; 2) legal implications and

barriers to growing and commercialisation of

cannabis flower and extracted cannabinoids

in Tasmania; and 3) the potential impact on

agricultural or other sectors within Tasmania

(Jul).

Interim report released on parliamentary

inquiry into legalisation of medical cannabis

in Tasmania. Key conclusions:

• Current legislation does not reflect

the reality that a lot of people use

cannabis for medical purposes.

• The unregulated environment

means there is no quality control

• Tasmania has the capacity and

expertise to extract pure

cannabinoids to produce a high

quality pharmaceutical product

Key recommendations:

• The government immediately

introduce legislation to protect

individuals who use medicinal

cannabis from criminal charge

• The government develops a

Yarra City Council proposed trial of first

needle and syringe vending machines in

Victoria (Jan).

The Victorian Minister for Mental Health,

Mary Wooldridge, backed needle syringe

vending machine trial in Victoria: saying too

many people were sharing syringes & the

Government was committed to stopping the

spread of blood-borne viruses (Jan).

Herald Sun campaigned against vending

machines in Victoria: e.g. “Taking a jab in

the dark” (Feb).

Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances

Amendment Act 2014 adopted. This

extended the meaning of drug of

dependence to include analogues of certain

drugs, and added to Schedule 11 five

classes of synthetic cannabinoids, as well as

five specific synthetic cannabinoids and 21

other synthetic substances such as NBOMe,

2-CB and DMAA (Feb).

Attorney-General Robert Clark introduced

Sentencing Amendment (Baseline

Sentences) Bill 2014, to increase baseline/

median sentences for a range of indictable

offences, including a new median sentence

for trafficking in a large commercial quantity

of 14 years imprisonment (up from 7 years

imprisonment) (Apr).

Penington Institute established, led by

Professor David Penington (Apr).

Turning Point and Ambulance Victoria report

showed methamphetamine related

ambulance call-outs increased in

metropolitan Melbourne from 107 in 2008-

09 to 1112 in 2011-12 (May).

A Family Drug Treatment Court opened in

Broadmeadows: the first in Australia. This

WA Police Organised Crime Squad arrested

17 people and seized $20 million worth of

drugs and assets following a 10 month

investigation into a drug ring operating

across WA, SA and NSW. It is alleged the

network used a WA based trucking company

to transport and distribute cannabis and

methylamphetamine into WA (Jan).

New prevention guidelines adopted: Alcohol

and other Drug Prevention Guidelines 2014 -

a guide to support professionals leading in

the area of AOD prevention (Feb).

Sector peak bodies launched a new ‘Green

Book’ directory listing alcohol and other

drug, as well as community mental health

services (Feb).

Alcohol and Drug Authority Amendment Bill

2014 introduced. Aim: amalgamation of the

Mental Health Commission and the Western

Australian Drug and Alcohol Office, under

the new name “Mental Health Commission”

(May).

An Organised Crime Squad operation led to

seizure of more than $8M worth of

methamphetamine in a series of raids at

Kewdale, Munster and Bibra Lake and arrest

of 6 people (May).

33 additional new psychoactive substances

were listed in Schedule 9 of the Poisons Act

1964. Included NBOMe & 4-MEC (Jun).

A joint operation between the Australian

Federal Police, Western Australia Police, the

Australian Crime Commission and Australian

Customs and Border Protection led to the

largest seizure of methamphetamine in WA:

90kg. Six men were also arrested (Oct).

WA Mental Health, Alcohol and other Drug

Services Plan 2015-2025 launched for

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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legislative framework to enable the

medical use of cannabis

• The government engages with

companies with expertise to

progress cultivation, extraction and

processing of cannabinoids (Nov)

Tasmanian Health Minister Michael Ferguson

ruled out any changes to the current laws:

"Advice from Tasmania Police is it's not

necessary and could potentially create a

new set of problems including opening up

the risk that people would self-medicate,

with no licensing or limit to quantity. The

Police Commissioner has said Tasmania

Police will not seek to criminally pursue

terminally ill users of cannabis" (Nov).

Tasmanian Minister for Health released

report: “Review of Drug Use and Service

Responses in North West Tasmania.” The

report was commissioned in response to

reports of increasing drug use, particularly

methamphetamine in the north west, & led

to stakeholder and community forums and

review of available data. Key conclusions:

• There was very little objective data in

relation to the prevalence of drugs is

available for the North West region;

• There is no objective evidence to

suggest a significant increase in

methamphetamine consumption in

North West Tasmania;

• Alcohol continues to be far and away

the number one drug of concern, with

cannabis use remaining the illicit drug

of greatest use and concern (Nov).

aims to help parents to stop using drugs and

alcohol, and to promote family reunification,

by diverting parents from a normal court to

a judicially monitored, therapeutic 12-month

program that uses drug and alcohol

clinicians and a dedicated social worker, as

well as a raft of associated services (AOD

treatment, parenting programs, housing

programs, mental health). The program

seeks to engage parents whose children

have been taken into care due to parental

substance misuse or dependence and uses

intensive case coordination and holistic

therapeutic intervention to address issues of

substance misuse with the aim of achieving

safe and sustainable family reunification of

parents and their children (May).

Sentencing Amendment (Baseline

Sentences) Act 2014 adopted: increasing

median sentence for trafficking in a large

commercial quantity of 14 years

imprisonment (up from 7 years

imprisonment) (Aug).

Opposition Leader, the Hon. Daniel Andrews

announced that, if elected, the Labor Party

would put the issue of medical cannabis to

the Victoria Law Reform Commission, with

the aim of finding a path to legalisation of

cannabis for medical purposes (Aug 24).

The Coalition Government announced the

introduction of a Bill to facilitate clinical

trials of medical cannabis: Drugs, Poisons

and Controlled Substances Amendment

(Clinical Trials) Bill (Aug 28).

Criminal Organisations Control and other

Acts Amendment Act 2014 (No. 55 of 2014)

adopted. This introduced automatic

forfeiture of all property owned or controlled

by a person convicted of a serious drug

offence (e.g. trafficking in a large

commercial quantity) and removed the need

for courts to prove an offender’s property

came from the proceeds of crime or was

used to commit a crime. Exceptions that will

not be forfeited include:

• tools of trade required in earning

income;

• property used primarily as a means

of transport;

• items of necessary clothing (Aug).

Reforms commenced to Victorian adult non-

residential alcohol and drug treatment

services. Key changes included:

consultation (until 30 March 2015). The plan

was informed by evidence based national

modelling tools (the National Mental Health

Service Planning Framework and the

National Drug and Alcohol Service Planning

Model) to outline the optimal mix of services

required to meet population demands. Key

goals included:

• Develop and commence a pilot

community coordination program to

assist people to navigate the mental

health, alcohol and other drug service

system;

• Increase the proportion of the Mental

Health Commission budget spent on

mental illness prevention and mental

health promotion from 2% to 3%, and

increase the hours of service dedicated

to alcohol and other drug prevention

from 108,000 to 192,000 hours; &

• Have established a comprehensive suite

of universal and targeted mass reach

campaigns that promote mental health,

prevent mental illness and reduce

harmful alcohol and other drug use

(Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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• A 24 hour central intake service

and referral system;

• 16 catchments (9 metropolitan and

7 regional) with localized intake

and assessment;

• Reduction in treatment types to six

different streams (Sep 1).

Victorian Law Reform, Drugs and Crime

Prevention Parliamentary Committee

released report on: “Inquiry into the Supply

and Use of Methamphetamine in Victoria.”

Key conclusions were:

• Media accounts of “an ice crisis,

epidemic or pandemic” were not

borne out in the data;

• The prevalence of

methamphetamine use had

remained stable, but there was a

significant rise in the use of potent

crystal methamphetamine forms,

particularly by youth aged 20-29;

Issued 52 recommendations, including:

• a methamphetamine action plan;

• a Ministerial Council on

Methamphetamine;

• that any government funded

awareness or education campaigns

be targeted at current or potential

high-risk users;

• development of non-tertiary

treatment options to respond to

users who are not dependent but

are experiencing significant

amphetamine-related harm; &

• expanding the Victorian drug court

to Melbourne, Geelong, Sunshine

and Gippsland (Sep).

Victorian Government launched a range of

methamphetamine responses including:

• a multi-media campaign targeting

youth “What are you doing on ice?”

• 11 new Passive Alert Detection

(PAD) dogs to help detect

clandestine laboratories and dealers

in regional and metro Vic

• $2.7 million over four years for

community skills building forums

for families affected by ice

• $1.85 million in funding for harm

reduction initiatives (Sep).

New Penington Institute report released,

“Impacts of methamphetamine in Victoria: a

community assessment”. The report was

commissioned by the Victorian Department

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of Health to analyse trends, undertake key

information interviews and collaborate with

the University of South Australia to

undertake the state’s first waste water

analysis of the levels of methamphetamine.

The wastewater analysis showed

methamphetamine levels were substantially

higher in Melbourne than in regional

Victoria: something which was counter to

some key informant perceptions. Report

concluded that the perceived

methamphetamine problem may be slightly

inflated in regional Victoria, but that the

methamphetamine issue was genuinely

alarming many people and that response

systems, on the whole, were not yet able to

cope with the scale of the problem (Sep).

Victorian government announced it would

roll out waste-water drug-testing statewide

(Sep).

Syringe vending machines commenced

(Oct).

Research led by the Burnet Institute showed

that crystal methamphetamine in Victoria

was becoming increasingly bi-modal: with

purity either very high (>70%) or very low

(<20%). It also showed decreases in

methamphetamine purity-adjusted price. It

was conjectured that such changes, and not

a perceived increase in the number of users,

were contributing to the observed rise in

methamphetamine-related harms (Oct).

Victorian Labor Government elected under

Premier Daniel Andrews (Nov).

Premier Daniel Andrews launched an ‘ice

taskforce’ with 100 days to develop an

action plan to respond to methamphetamine

in Victoria and intent to introduce four new

offences to tackle methamphetamine

production and traffick (Dec).

Premier Daniel Andrews announced that the

Victorian Law Reform Commission had been

asked to submit a report in August 2015 to

determine not if, but when and how the laws

should change to allow terminally and

chronically ill people access to medicinal

marijuana (Dec).

2013

AIDS Council of South Australia (ACSA)

closed following withdrawal of funding from

the SA Government. This also led to closure

of the SA injecting drug users group –

SAVIVE (the South Australian Voice for IV

Education) as it was run through ACSA (Jul).

Advocacy Tasmania Inc (ATI) released their

Consumer Engagement Program Service

Development Plan 2013. The priority areas

were:

• Consumer capacity building – including

developing and managing a consumer

New Victorian drug strategy released:

“Reducing the alcohol and drug toll.

Victoria’s plan 2013 – 2017.” The strategy

contained a 15 point plan, including:

• Better referral of drug users to

education and treatment, through

WA Health Promotion Strategic Framework

2012–2016 released (Jan).

Amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act

1981 came into force to introduce a

comprehensive definition of drug

paraphernalia and new offences concerning

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South Australian Injectors Network (SAIN)

commenced as a new independent unfunded

group; commenced with a facebook page

but no offices (Jul).

OCSAR report shows a 75% increase in

recorded drug offences in SA between 2007

and 2011: predominantly supply/

production. Contrary to declining trend in

offences in rest of state (Sep).

Following a two-year investigation into

outlaw motorcycle gangs, the South

Australian Police has confiscated more than

$150 worth of drugs connected with the

Descendants motorcycle gang. Included: 21

kg methamphetamine and 21,000 ecstasy

tablets and $120,000 cash (Nov).

Liberal opposition substance abuse

spokesman Duncan McFetridge announced

that if elected they would reduce the

amount of cannabis for which a person

received only a fine - and is not charged -

from 100g to less than 25g (Nov).

The Controlled Substances (Offences)

Amendment Act 2013 adopted. Made it an

offence for a person to manufacture,

promote, sell or supply “controlled drug

alternatives”: substances intended to have

pharmacological effects similar to a

controlled drug or to be a legal alternative

to a controlled drug. Maximum penalties

included:

• $15,000 and/or 4 years imprisonment

for manufacturing;

• $10 000 or imprisonment for 2 years

for promoting

Law commenced Feb 2014 (Dec).

topics of interest ;

• Service provider consultancy – such as

developing tools to formally measure

effectiveness of the consumer

engagement program;

• Sharing the vision across the sector –

such as by providing regular updates of

consumer engagement activity across

the sector on the ATDC e-news;

• Support systems-level consumer

engagement – including supporting the

development of a Tasmanian consumer

organisation (Jan).

Minister for Health released the first specific

prevention strategy: “Everybody's Business:

A Strategic Framework for Implementing

Promotion, Prevention and Early

Intervention (PPEI) Approaches in Averting

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Use.” Key

rationales included:

• The neglect of prevention, and of the

raft of prevention strategies that could

be employed; and

• The potential cost-effectiveness of

prevention (Mar).

New Tasmanian drug strategy released:

Tasmanian Drug Strategy 2013-2018. Key

priorities included:

• Support preventative and

developmental health approaches to

alcohol, tobacco & other drugs use;

• Increase the range and availability of,

and access to, appropriate services for

individuals experiencing problematic

drugs use including for individuals with

diverse, complex and high needs;

• Strengthen evidence-based awareness-

raising, education initiatives and early

interventions in a range of targeted

settings, population groups and

developmental transition points (Apr).

Department of Health and Human Services

released a consultation paper entitled A

Continuum of Care to Prevent Youth

Offending and Re-Offending (Apr).

Report on the Inquiry into alternatives to

youth detention released by Commissioner

for Children Tasmania. Key

recommendations for government:

• Consider the adoption of a Justice

Reinvestment Framework for the youth

justice system in Tasmania; &

• Establish a youth drug and alcohol

expanding existing court-diversion

initiatives and building a more systemic

approach to diversion provision: by

drug, age and population groups

• Improved harm-reduction services and

targeted prevention, through increasing

the use and availability of naloxone as

an emergency response to opioid

overdose

Plan also outlined new advisory and decision

making arrangements:

• A ministerial committee

• An executive group (comprising key

Victorian Government executives from

Departments of Health, Justice, Human

Services, Education and Victoria Police)

• An alcohol and drug advisory board

• (comprising ≤ 12 non-government

leaders, experts and stakeholders)

Also outlined was a plan to establish an

alcohol and drug research and innovation

fund with a focus on applied research (Jan).

Minister Wooldridge released a new Adult

Alcohol and Drug (AOD) Screening and

Assessment Tool designed to minimise

duplication of screening and assessment,

streamline intake, improve clients’

experience, and inform treatment planning,

referral and pathways. The tool had been

successfully piloted at 8 AOD agencies and

comprised three steps: (1) a self-complete

initial screen by the client, (2)

comprehensive assessment, (3) review. The

tool will be mandated from 2014 for all

Department of Health funded agencies

(Feb).

Victorian Police Minister Peter Ryan

announced new road laws (‘cocktail’ laws)

would be introduced for drivers under the

influence of both alcohol and illicit drugs.

The minimum penalty for a first offence will

be higher than the penalty for either drug or

drink driving alone: 20 penalty units

($2800) and a 12 months license

suspension (Mar).

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner

Andrew Crisp argues there has been too

much emphasis upon drugs as a law and

order issue and that the Victorian

Government should treat drugs as a health

issue (Jul).

Victorian Government released a report:

New directions for alcohol and drug

treatment services: A framework for reform.

the sale and display for sale of drug

paraphernalia. This extended the definition

of ice pipes or cannabis-smoking

paraphernalia to include “anything made or

modified to be used in smoking cannabis”

and any “device capable of being used for

the administration of a prohibited drug by

means of the inhaling of the smoke or

fumes resulting from the heating or burning

of the drug in a crystal, powder, oil or base

form.” It also introduced a separate penalty

scheme for adults and youth, with more

severe penalties where a person sells drug

paraphernalia to a person under 18 years

(30 Jan).

Preston Bridge, aged 16, died after he fell

from a hotel balcony having taken NBOMe

(Feb).

WA Government announced the Drug and

Alcohol Office (DAO) and the Mental Health

Commission (MHC) would be joined (Apr).

First take-home naloxone program

established in WA by the Drug and

Alcohol Office of WA Health and the WA

Substance Users Association (Apr).

Social Inclusion Action Research Group

(SIARG) launched first position paper:

“Reducing stigma and discrimination

relating to alcohol and other drugs

in Western Australia”. The SIARG was

formed through a partnership between the

WA Drug and Alcohol Office and WANADA

with the purpose of planning, implementing

and evaluating initiatives aimed at

promoting the social inclusion of, and

reducing the stigma and discrimination

experienced by people with AOD use

problems or those affected by someone

else’s use(Jun).

First convictions obtained in WA in

connection with Silk Road: two brothers who

bought cocaine, ecstasy and cannabis from

Silk Road were convicted of possessing

drugs (6.8g of cannabis, 0.7g of cocaine and

seven ecstasy pills) with intent to sell and

supply (Sep).

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residential rehabilitation service;

• Establish the equivalent of Court

Mandated Diversion (CMD) options,

focused on and applicable to young

offenders with illicit drug and/or alcohol

problems (Jul).

The Tasmanian Parliamentary Inquiry into

the hemp industry report and

recommendations were released (Oct).

This outlined why the Victorian AOD

treatment system is reforming, the vision

for the new system and process for reform

(Aug).

Victorian Coalition Government launches

two year naloxone provision and training

program: called the Community Overdose

Prevention and Education (COPE) program.

The program is run by ANEX with key goals

to:

• provide at-risk drug users, family,

friends & frontline service personnel

(e.g. primary care providers, NSPs and

Medicare Local staff) with knowledge

and ability to respond to and administer

naloxone in the event of an opioid

overdose; &

• increase GP knowledge of naloxone to

support increased prescribing of

naloxone to people at high risk of an

opioid overdose (Aug).

Victorian Parliament commenced a new

inquiry into the supply and use of

methamphetamines, particularly ice, in

Victoria. Terms of reference included to:

• examine the channels of supply of

methamphetamine

• examine the nature, prevalence and

culture of methamphetamine use

• examine the links between

methamphetamine use and crime

• review the adequacy of past and

existing state and federal strategies for

dealing with methamphetamine use

(Sep).

A multi-agency taskforce involving joint

waterfront taskforces in Brisbane (Jericho),

Sydney (Polaris) and Melbourne (Trident)

and other agencies led to the seizure of

more than 200kg of methamphetamine that

was concealed in the tyres of a medium

sized truck, delivered to Melbourne. Three

people were also arrested (Oct).

Victorian Government released an

Advertised Call for Submission (ACS) for

stage 1 delivery of Victorian Alcohol and

Drug Treatment Services. Stage 1 focused

on delivery of adult non-residential

treatment services (Oct).

Ambulance Victoria reports that ambulance

calls related to ‘ice’ or methamphetamine

have risen 110% - from 282 to 592 -

between 2010-11 and 2011-12 and that the

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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unpredictable and violent behavior of ice

users is causing concerns for ambulance

workers (Oct).

Victorian Coroners Court data shows that

between 2000 and 2010, a total of 120

prisoners overdosed and died within two

months of being released from jail, or on a

post-release corrections-based order (Oct).

Magistrate Tony Parsons of Victoria's drug

court calls for the establishment of special

drug rehabilitation prisons as per NSW to

reduce the rate of overdoses after prisoners

are released (Oct).

Victorian health officials issued an urgent

warning on the use of synthetic drugs after

three men were admitted to intensive care

with severe health problems (e.g. seizures)

after use of a synthetic drug purchased from

a sex shop: “Marley” (Nov).

Victoria Police data revealed a 8.8%

increase in drug offences during 2013:

attributed to increased police productivity

and increased use/possess of

methamphetamine (Nov).

Needle syringe program operators report

rise in illegal steroid users obtaining free

injecting equipment: with steroids now third

biggest drug of choice, behind heroin and

meth/amphetamines amongst those

collecting equipment (Nov).

Synthetic cannabinoid “Marley” was added

to Schedule 11 of the poisons list: with

penalties of up to 15 years prison for

trafficking (Dec).

2012

SA Police commenced raids in Murray Bridge

for MDPV and arrested four people (Jan 24).

SA Police investigation targeted at MDPV led

to seizures of manufacturing equipment and

drugs: two encapsulating machines, 10,000

empty capsules, 1250 grams of MDPV, 320g

of DMMC, and 300g of Ephedrine (Feb 2).

New report released by the Office of Crime

and Statistics Research: “The South

Australian drug court: A recidivism study”.

The incidence, frequency and severity of re-

apprehension was analysed for all drug

court participants over a five year period

(Jan 2004-Dec 2008), and compared

amongst three groups: completers,

terminates and a sample of prisoners

generated by the Department of

Correctional Services. Completers performed

Tasmania adopted into law the new Poisons

Standard (SUSMP) under the Therapeutic

Goods Act 1989, including the prohibition of

MDPV: Poisons (Adoption of Uniform

Standard) Order 2012 (Jun).

The Alcohol and Drug Service implemented

iPatient Manager (iPM), to improve the

management of information for clinicians

(Jul).

Minister for Health, Michelle O'Byrne

released “A Review of Opioid Prescribing in

Tasmania -A Blueprint for the Future” (Jul).

Minister for Health, Michelle O'Byrne

released the “Tasmanian Opioid

Pharmacotherapy Program, Policy and

Clinical Practice Standards” (Aug).

Discussion paper released: Review of the

Tasmanian Alcohol and Drug Dependency

Bans on cannabis bongs entered into force

(Jan 1).

Community Correction Order (CCO)

introduced, replacing the Community Based

Orders, Intensive Correction Orders and

Combined Custody and Treatment Orders.

The CCO is a flexible order served in the

community. All those sentenced to a CCO

must abide by basic conditions such as not

reoffending and at least one other optional

condition e.g. undertaking AOD treatment,

remain free of drugs and alcohol, be

supervised, abide by curfews, undertake

unpaid community work (Jan 16).

Minister for Youth Affairs, Ryan Smith,

launched the Victorian Government’s Youth

Statement, Engage, Involve, Create. This

sought to increase opportunities to engage

WA Police issued a warning about a new

drug: MDPV (3,4

methylenedioxypyrovalerone). They noted

that “the substance has been linked to an

increase in drug induced casualties in

hospitals in the eastern states, including

reported fatal overdoses in South Australia

and Victoria” (Jan 12).

New ‘synthetic drug’ MDPV (3,4

methylenedioxypyrovalerone) was added to

Schedule 9 (Prohibited Substances) of the

Poisons Act 1964 (WA), making it illegal

from Feb 10. MDPV is structurally related to

cathinone or MDMA and has effects including

anxiety, paranoia, acute cardiovascular and

central nervous system toxicity (Feb 8).

WA Night Venues and Entertainment Events

Project (NVEEP) coordinated by the Drug

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better than the other samples in terms of

reduced incidence of and longer time to re-

apprehension, but there were no significant

differences in terms of the overall frequency

of apprehension (May).

New report from OCSAR: “Ten years of the

South Australian Police Drug Diversion

Initiative - Data Analysis Report.” Key

findings:

• The no. of diversions has increased

steadily over the ten year period

• The compliance rate across 10 yrs was

81%, with only a slight drop from

program start (84% to 80%)

• 24% of offenders had been diverted

more than once.

• Individuals who comply with their

diversion are significantly less likely to

re-offend - 2 yrs after their first

diversion offence 25% of non-

compliers had re-offended vs. only

18% of compliers (May).

Two new reports released from OCSAR on

the “Evaluation of the 6-month drug

treatment program”. Key findings:

• The program completion rate was

40.1% (and rate of successful

completion was 29.5%).

• The proportion of positive drug tests

decreased significantly throughout the

program: from 70.1% at baseline to

9.8% after 5 months and 0.0% at 6

months.

• 54.9% participants recorded no

subsequent apprehension in the 6

months after leaving, but program

completers were less significantly less

likely to reoffend – 26.3% reoffended

compared to 58.5% of non-completers

(Aug/Oct).

Summary Offences (Drug Paraphernalia)

Amendment Bill enacted. Led to banning of

the sale of drug paraphernalia such as a

cannabis pipe and bong. The maximum

penalty is $10,000 or 2 years imprisonment

(Oct).

South Australia Police and the Holden Hill

Magistrates Court commenced a 6 month

trial of an Offence Streaming Model, which

will reduce the time between the alleged

offence and appearance in court for simple

matters. The policy was developed in

recognition of long delays and inefficiencies

in court system and additional stress this

Act (ADDA) 1968. This sought to critically

evaluate the ongoing suitability of the ADDA

and to identify a potential way forward,

including retaining but amending ADDA or

repeal and move parts of ADDA to existing

legislation (Sep).

The Promotion, Prevention and Early

Intervention (PPEI) Strategic Framework

adopted.

Budget Priority Statements 2013-2013 by

the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs

Council Tas Inc (ATDC) noted that while the

incoming year marked the end of the Future

Service Directions (FSD) funding,

continuation of FSD funding was critical to

(1) maintain the significant improvements in

the sector; (2) to enable the remaining

planned steps to be implemented; and (3)

to avoid a significant reduction in service

provision. It argued that if FSD funds were

cut this would lead to a loss of in excess of

20 individuals working in the sector and lead

to the closure of at least two ATDC member

organisations that provide vital counselling

and case management in the sector (Nov).

Minister for Children, the Hon. Michelle

O’Byrne MP, initiated inquiry into

alternatives to youth detention, including:

• the key characteristics and pathways

that contribute to youth offending –

which result in youth detention in

Tasmania;

• the role of detention within the

continuum of youth justice; &

• diversionary strategies, alternatives to

incarceration and pre-/post-release

support services current in Tasmania

(Nov).

A performance review was released into the

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Services,

Future Service Directions (FSD) 2008/09 –

2012/13.

Key achievements of the FSD were:

• significant investment and growth in the

public pharmacotherapy program;

• significant investment into the three

community based residential

rehabilitation services in this State;

• implementation of a new client

information management system and

improved reporting.

But, it also noted FSD performance was

affected by recruitment issues, internal

administrative processes and budgetary

young people in education and/or

employment and to build mentorship, links

and partnerships between business and

philanthropy with young Victorians (Apr).

Victorian Police Assistant Commissioner

Stephen Fontana highlighted the frustrations

of policing illicit drug use at music festivals

and raves. Following the arrest of 200

individuals for use/ possession at

Creamfields he noted “we are just

progressively getting more and more and

we are still not scratching the surface.” A

total of 190 officers and 7 drug detection

dogs were used for the operation (Apr).

Operation Permute, a 7 month investigation,

led to 29 warrants being simultaneously

executed across the North West

Metropolitan Region and seizure of 5,200

suspected cannabis plants: one of the most

significant hauls of cannabis in Victoria

Police history. 11 people were arrested (Apr

18).

The Federal Government announced that a

Task Force would be established to examine

organised crime on the Melbourne

waterfront. Operation Trident will begin on 1

July 2012, with key members being Victoria

Police, Australian Customs and Border

Protection, Australia Federal Police &

Austrac (May).

Victorian Drug Statistics Handbook: Patterns

of drug use and related harm in Victoria for

the period July 2009 to June 2010 released.

Key findings:

• During 2009–10, opioid-related

hospitalisations opioid-related bed days

and hospitalisations for heroin overdose

all increased (by 15%, 20% and 24%

respectively).

• Stimulant-related harms were largely

stable e.g. ambulance attendances

decreased by 5%.

• The number of cannabis-related

ambulance attendances increased

significantly from 2008 to 2010 (from

675 to 920) (May).

New report released: “Trends in alcohol and

drug-related ambulance attendances in

Melbourne: 2010-2011.” Showed a 107%

increase in crystal methamphetamine-

related ambulance call-outs: 282 incidents

in 2010-11 compared with 136 in 2009-10

(May).

and Alcohol Office launched a new

campaign: “Stimulants can mask how drunk

you really are” (Feb).

Brochures on the WA AOD treatment

services were translated into 13 different

languages: Arabic, Dari, English, French,

Indonesian, Italian, Karen, Kirundi, Somali,

Vietnamese, Chinese, Swahili, and Dinka.

The brochures were developed by the Drug

and Alcohol Office to address known barriers

to AOD treatment amongst people from

culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD)

backgrounds (Mar).

The Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill 2011

came into effect, changing the way in which

courts sentence a person convicted of:

a. Selling or supplying prohibited drugs

and/or plants to a child,

b. Manufacturing or cultivating prohibited

drugs or plants in circumstances which

endanger the life, health or safety of a

child under the age of 16 years, or

c. Manufacturing or cultivating prohibited

drugs or plants, or possessing Category

1 or 2 items (precursors), in

circumstances which caused bodily harm

to a child under the age of 16 years.

These changes in sentencing for a) and b)

include the defined penalties of:

• suspended imprisonment;

• conditional suspended imprisonment;

• a term of imprisonment.

The changes in sentencing for c) [and for

subsequent offences under a) and b)]

include a mandatory term of imprisonment

of 12 months and 6 months respectively

(Mar 24).

First transitional house in the Kimberley

opened to assist people receiving AOD

treatment who are at risk of homelessness:

Milliya Rumurra. Located in Broome, the

house will provide shelter, ongoing case

management, assistance with identifying

long term permanent housing, and skills

development e.g. financial management &

training (May).

The 2012/13 WA State Budget was

announced. Included largest investment in

mental health and drug and alcohol services

in WA’s history: $655.2 million. Key

measures included:

• $5 million over two years to trial a new

mental health court diversion and

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places on defendants. Trial was extended to

the Adelaide Magistrates Court in March

2013 (Oct 2012).

South Australia Police-Strategic Directions

2012-2015 adopted (Nov).

The South Australian Naloxone Distribution

pilot program commenced: an 18 month

pilot (Nov).

pressures. Of note, the uncertainty around

ongoing funding has resulted in the delay of

service development activities, including all

development planned in the fourth year. The

major area that has been affected is

outreach.

Consequently the review noted there

remains some considerable work to be

undertaken to fully implement the plan but

the significant capacity improvements in the

sector will be lost unless ongoing funding is

secured (Dec).

New report released: “Victorian

Pharmacotherapy Review” (Jun).

Minister for Mental Health Mary Wooldridge

released a 'roadmap' for reform: “New

directions for alcohol and drug treatment

services.” Principles underlining the new

reforms include:

• Person-centred, family and culturally

inclusive, recovery-oriented treatment

– that involves clients in treatment

planning and identifies goals, strengths

and weaknesses and tailors services to

fit needs;

• Integrated pathways – that connect

individuals with services to address

health, social or economic needs;

• Intervention at the earliest possible

point;

• (Multiple) bridges to treatment – from

the multiple NSPs and primary health

centres funded throughout Victoria and

improved screening of forensic AOD

clients.

Key actions in 2012 include piloting common

screening and assessment tools across 5

treatment sites; the redevelopment of the

pharmacotherapy system; and expansion of

access to NSPs and counselling services in

growth corridors and regional areas (Jun).

2012-13 State Budget allocated funding for

a new 500-bed medium-security male

prison, to be located at Ravenhall in

Melbourne’s north-west, and an additional

395 permanent beds at existing prisons

across Victoria (Jun).

Victoria police charged two prison officers in

connection with an alleged drug ring at the

Barwon prison (Jul).

The Victorian Opposition called for an

inquiry into drug trafficking in the state's

prison system (Jul).

The Department of Health commenced

consultations across Victoria about the AOD

treatment reform. Organisations including

the Victorian Alcohol and Other Drug

Association (VAADA) and the Association of

Participating Service Users (APSU) were

used to support and co-facilitate input (Jul-

Aug).

The Youth Cohort Study: Young people's

pathways through AOD treatment services.

Study recruited 150 young people using

AOD treatment services (aged 16-21 years)

support program servicing Perth

metropolitan magistrates’ courts, which

aims to limit re-offending and improve

mental health.

• $2.77 million over four years for drug

and alcohol services to support the

long term recovery outcomes for

people exiting alcohol and other drug

residential treatment programs and

their families.

• $1.04 million in 2013/14 to continue

funding the Australian Medical

Procedures Research Foundation’s

Fresh Start Recovery Program, while

work is progressed to achieve

registration of the naltrexone implant

with the Therapeutic Goods

Administration (May).

The Department continued to expand its

prison capacity to meet the growing demand

in 2011-12. Recently completed and current

construction forms part of the largest

building program to be undertaken in WA

corrections history, including a prison

specifically designed for Indigenous

prisoners.

The Illicit Drug Support Plan 2012 – 2015, a

supporting document to the Drug and

Alcohol Interagency Strategic Framework for

Western Australia 2011-2015, was released.

This outlines the priority areas and

strategies for the coming years. The priority

areas:

• Cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids.

• Amphetamines and ATS (inc ecstasy).

• Heroin and other opioids.

Other focus areas include:

• Poly drug use.

• Other prescription drugs.

• Emerging drugs.

• Transmission of blood-borne viruses

(Sep).

Two brothers were charged with possession

with intent to sell after being caught with

multiple packages of cannabis and ecstasy

purchased through the online marketplace

Silk Road (Sep).

The West Kimberley Regional Prison was

opened by Corrective Services Minister

Murray Cowper. Informed and overseen by

Indigenous people this was specifically

designed to be culturally sensitive to

Indigenous offenders, using for example

self-care units to enable grouping on the

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was completed (Aug).

Roundtable on fentenyl convened by ANEX

in Wodonga after a surge in overdoses

amongst drug users injecting the opiate

(Aug).

Victorian Alcohol and Other

Drug Treatment Principles

Consultation paper released (Sep).

The Australian Medical Association and the

Australian Greens call for a safe injecting

facility in Melbourne (Oct).

Amendments to Schedule 11 of the Drugs,

Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981

added eight synthetic cannabinoids and five

synthetic stimulants (including MDPV, 4-

MMC/mephedrone and BZP) permanently to

the list of prohibited substances. The 8

synthetic cannabinoids were previously

subject to a temporary 12 month ban (Nov

8).

Victorian Government discussion paper

released: ‘Practical Lessons, Fair

Consequences: Improving Diversion for

Young People in Victoria’ (Aug).

Victoria Police undertook a two month

operation (Operation TAXA) focused on

short term disruption of commercial scale

cannabis cultivation. Led to the execution of

48 search warrants, 20 arrests and the

seizure of almost 7,000 cannabis plants as

well as associated equipment. The operation

received significant media attention in

Victoria (Aug-Oct).

Report from the Victorian Auditor General

released: “Prison Capacity Planning”. Key

findings:

• A 38% increase in prisoner numbers

over the past decade (2002-2012) and

a heavy reliance on temporary beds

has resulted in the existing prison

infrastructure nearing its capacity

limits.

• Male prisoners are more affected: since

May 2011, the male prison system has

been operating close to or above 95%

utilisation.

• Overcrowding is leading to adverse

effects on other parts of the CJS e.g.

increasing prisoners are held in police

cells.

• Prisoner support programs and health

services have not kept pace with the

growth in prisoner numbers (due

basis of family ties or language (Nov).

Mental Health Bill 2012 was tabled in

Parliament (Nov).

2011 Australian School Students Alcohol and

Drug Survey (ASSAD) survey released:

showed a decline in illicit drug use among

WA school students (Dec).

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largely to a lack of funds).

• The rate of serious incidents per

prisoner e.g. assaults and self-

mutilation have doubled.

It concluded that the demand pressure on

the prison system was unsustainable and

that if forecast trends continued substantial

investment in prison infrastructure would be

required (Nov).

Minister Wooldridge released two new

workforce strategies: “Victoria’s alcohol and

drug workforce framework: Strategic

Directions 2012-22” and “Victoria’s alcohol

and drug workforce framework:

Implementation plan 2012-15” (Dec).

2011

Announcement that from 1 July SA

pharmacies would switch from voluntary to

mandatory real-time online reporting of

pseudoephedrine sales. Switch followed

concern over pharmaceutical shopping &

recognition only 60% pharmacies reported

sales (Mar).

New wastewater study released: “Population

drug use in Australia: A wastewater

analysis” A study of 15 sewage treatment

plants showed temporal and regional

differences in illicit drug use in South

Australia: MDMA was much more commonly

detected in regional centres such as Port

Lincoln & Port Augusta, than the city (Apr).

SA announced a ban on the possession, sale

or intent to supply of seventeen synthetic

cannabinoids including Kronic, Spice, Kaos

Voodoo, Mango and Northern Lights. Ban

was introduced by Government Gazette

(Controlled Substances (Prohibition of

Synthetic Cannabis) Notice 2011), pending

evaluation of their harmful properties by the

Controlled Substances Advisory Council and

consideration of whether the substances be

added to the Controlled Substances Act (Jun

17).

The Controlled Substances Advisory Council

evaluated the harmful properties of

synthetic cannabinoids. The council ruled

that the harmful effects were similar to

those of cannabis and hence supported their

inclusion in the Controlled Substances

(General) Regulations 2000 (using the same

threshold quantities as for cannabis). This

came into effect 23 Jun (Jun 21).

The Controlled Substances Advisory Council

also made three other rulings:

New discussion paper released:

“Everybody’s business – A discussion paper

for the development of the Alcohol, Tobacco

and Other Drugs (ATODs) Promotion,

Prevention and Early Intervention (PPEI)

Strategic Framework” with 6 weeks for

public input. Key messages:

• Substance use must be understood

within the context of many factors –

cultural, socioeconomic and political –

that can be influenced by government

decisions.

• Government policy responses in relation

to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs

have traditionally focused upon

individual factors. This needs to be

broadened.

• Socially inclusive communities and

resilient individuals and families are less

likely to engage in harmful substance

use.

Potential strategies identified:

• Develop a model/s for cross-sector

collaboration to support social inclusion.

• Support and advance the actions

identified in the National Health

Preventative Strategy.

• Develop a mechanism to ensure that all

government policy with an impact upon

substance use and misuse – e.g. social

inclusion, housing,– is informed by an

understanding of their potential

influence on the substance use (i.e.

some form of alcohol, tobacco and other

drug impact assessment) (May).

Launch of statewide Drug Education

Network’s resource centre and website.

Website sought to fill need for internet and

24 hour information provision (Jun).

Severe Substance Dependence Treatment

Act came into effect, thereby enabling

involuntary drug treatment and detention

for up to 14 days, where this is necessary as

a matter of urgency to save the person's life

or prevent serious damage to the person's

health (Mar).

New report released by the Victorian

Auditor-General: “Managing Drug and

Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Services”.

Report noted that the state allocated $135.7

million for AOD prevention and treatment

activities in 2010–11 (81% for treatment &

19% for prevention activities). Key findings:

• The department has no assurance that

objectives are being achieved.

• Treatment services remain difficult for

clients to access and navigate.

• 31 internal reviews have been

conducted since 1999. But few have

been acted on.

• The poor track record has resulted in

scepticism among service providers.

Key recommendations:

• Implement a whole-of-government

AOD prevention strategy

• Address the fragmentation and

inconsistency of service provision.

• Revise the treatment service mix so

that services funded align with need

(Mar).

Sentencing Further Amendment Act 2011

adopted. This extended the abolition of

suspended sentences to a range of

‘significant offences’ including trafficking in a

large commercial quantity of a drug of

dependence and trafficking in a commercial

quantity of a drug of dependence (Apr).

GHB overdose victim videoed by Herald Sun

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton

announced that an additional $1.5 million

would be provided to support the work of Dr

George O’Neil’s Fresh Start Recovery

Programme until June 30 2012. They also

announced that independent researchers

have been contracted by the State

Government through DAO to assess steps

necessary to progress the application for

registration of naltrexone implant treatment

with the TGA (Mar).

Explosion of a clandestine drug laboratory at

a public housing unit, that injured five

adults sparked public concern (Mar).

Police Minister Rob Johnson announced the

government would crack down on drug

manufacturers who expose children at risk

(Mar).

WA Police Serious Organised Crime Strategy

2011-2014 adopted (Apr).

WA Police announced they had cracked a

major drug syndicate that had been using

the interstate road freight transport industry

to traffic cannabis from South Australian

into Western Australia. The operation

conducted with SA Police, Kalgoorlie police

and Australian Customs and Border

Protection led to the seizure of 29 kg of

cannabis, $25,000 and arrest of three

truckies and a Gypsy Jokers bikie gang

associate (Apr).

Increased media attention to synthetic

cannabinoids, such as Kronic, following

revelations in The Western Australian of

widespread use, especially at mining sites:

“One in ten miners uses legal high”. Key

evidence put forward was the finding by the

WA government drug testing centre,

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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• To ban the ‘synthetic MDMA-like

substances’ 3,4

methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV)

and methcathinone;

• To make prescribed thresholds quantities

for all new MDMA-like substances

consistent with the existing MDMA

prescribed amounts e.g. trafficable

quantity = 2g MDPV;

• To ban MMDMG - a new precursor for

manufacturing MDMA.

These came into effect 23 Jun (Jun 21).

The South Australian Alcohol and Other

Drug Strategy 2011-2016 was adopted. Five

key objectives were put forward, namely to:

1. Reduce illicit drug use and its

associated harms;

2. Reduce the rate of alcohol-related

harm;

3. Reduce drug-related harm to young

people and families of those with

substance misuse issues;

4. Reduce harm from substance

misuse among Aboriginal people;

5. Improve the timeliness of

monitoring systems so trends in

alcohol and other drug misuse are

detected as early as possible

One priority action of the strategy was to

trial the provision of naloxone to opioid

users to assess whether peer administration

can assist in reducing fatal overdoses (Dec).

First fatal overdose reported from 3,4

methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV ). The

deceased was a man, aged 40, from Murray

Bridge (Dec).

The Minister for Health approved an

extension to the Tasmanian Drug Strategy

(TDS) 2005-2009 to the end of 2012 (15

Jun).

The Minister for Health approved an

extension to the Tasmanian

Psychostimulants Action Plan 2007-2009 to

the end of 2013.

The Controlled Drugs, Controlled Precursors

and Interpretation under the Schedule of

the Misuse of Drugs Act 2001 was reviewed

in the goal of ensuring Tasmania Police had

the capacity to appropriately deal with

emerging drug issues. This led to

amendments, under the Misuse of Drugs

Order 2011 including:

• Aligning the Interpretation of the

Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act

2001 to that contained in the Poisons

Act 1971, in an effort to appropriately

capture the broad range of derivative

drugs now entering the illicit drug

market.

• Increasing the number of Controlled

Drugs banned under the Act, including

synthetic cannabinoids including Kronic

and Spice, and the Methcathinone

derivative drug known as Israelis.

• Increasing the number of Controlled

Precursors under the Act, from 13

controlled precursors to 53 controlled

precursors (Aug).

A six-month operation undertaken by

Tasmania Police uncovered a motorcycle

gang-related methylamphetamine trafficking

operation worth $450,000. To date 12

offenders had been charged, with further

charges expected (Aug).

Funding was reduced to primary NSPs

through the cessation of provision of free

sterile water (for reasons of cost-saving).

JointForces a quarterly e-bulletin started.

This sought to promote cross-sector

linkages and collaboration between the

Tasmanian Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug

(ATOD) and Mental Health (MH) sector

(Nov).

at 11am on a Sunday morning, drawing new

attention to GHB use in Melbourne.

Paramedics confirmed that Melbourne was

the GHB capital, with rates of use increasing

in Melbourne but declining elsewhere and

that ‘drug’ overdoses are at their highest

levels since the heroin epidemic of 1999-

2000 (Apr).

A Sunday Herald Sun investigation exposed

that the Richmond housing estate had

become a public ‘shooting gallery,’ and site

of rampant drug dealing: ‘Shame of our

Needle Town’ (Apr).

After a decade long legal battle Tony Mokbel

pleaded guilty to three drug charges:

trafficking a large commercial quantity

MDMA between February and August 2005;

urging an undercover police officer to import

a commercial quantity of MDMA in the same

year; and trafficking a large commercial

quantity of methylamphetamines in the mid

1990s. A plea deal reached between the

Director of Public Prosecutions and Mokbel's

defence team resulted in him avoiding trial

on other drug charges arising from four

separate police operations dating back to

2000. Mokbel has admitted he was the main

man behind the manufacture and

distribution of the multimillion-dollar drug

trafficking enterprise, consisting of at least

10 people, known as ''The Company''. A

spreadsheet of drug transactions between

July 2006 and June 2007, known as ''The

Bill'', shows that The Company's gross

turnover during that time was more than $4

million. He was sentenced in July 2012 to 30

years in prison, with a non-parole period of

22 years (Apr 2011 and Jul 2012).

Long-standing suppression orders that

prevented media coverage of Mokbel case

for 24 months and the unedited screening of

tv show “Underbelly” within Victoria

removed. Victorian Attorney-General Robert

Clark ordered a review of suppression

orders due to concerns that secrecy may be

undermining the principle of open justice

(Apr).

Yarra City Council voted 6-1 in favour of a

trial of a medically supervised injecting

facility in Richmond’s Victoria street, and

outlined intent to lobby for State

Government support for a trial (May 17).

Victorian Premier Ted Ballieau said he would

ChemCentre, that of 80 recent tests of WA

mineworkers an average of 10% across all

mine sites and up to 30% across some sites

tested positive to Kronic. Assertions were

made this was in large part because the

drugs were seen as safe and were not

commonly detectable (May).

Attorney General announced the provision of

$3.9 million through the Criminal

Confiscation Assets Program to local

governments and non-profit community

groups to re-direct confiscated assets to 28

programs directed at drug use, drug related

crime and crime victims (May).

Drug and Alcohol Interagency Strategic

Framework for WA 2011-15 adopted. Five

strategic areas were specified:

• focusing on prevention;

• intervening before problems become

entrenched;

• effective law enforcement approaches;

• effective treatment and support

services; and strategic coordination

and capacity building (May).

Young man admitted to Royal Perth Hospital

post Kronic ingestion with paroxysmal

supraventricular tachycardia, an extremely

fast heartbeat (Jun).

WA Government became first state to

announce ban on the possession, sale or

intent to supply of seven synthetic

cannabinoids including Kronic, Spice, Kaos

Voodoo, Mango and Northern Lights. People

were given four days to dispose of any

supplies, before the substances were added

to the Poisons Act 1964 on Friday, June 17.

Ban followed a review of harms of synthetic

cannabinoids by the Drug and Alcohol

Office, WA Police, Department of Health and

the ChemCentre (Jun 13).

First charge for possession of a synthetic

cannabinoid. Man was found in possession

of 6 gms of Kronic (21 Jun).

WA Legislative Assembly Education and

Health Standing Committee completed their

Inquiry into the Adequacy and

Appropriateness of Prevention and

Treatment Services for Alcohol and Illicit

Drug Problems in Western Australia. One of

three reports released was titled: “Changing

patterns in illicit drug use in Western

Australia” (Jun).

Police Minister Rob Johnson announced a

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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not support the proposal by Yarra Council

for a medically supervised injecting room in

Richmond, saying it would send the wrong

message and that improved law

enforcement and education were needed

instead (May 18).

New measures introduced in efforts to

address drug trafficking and use at the

Richmond housing estate: four new CCTV

cameras were installed and a police

command post established (May).

Bill introduced – ‘Drugs, Poisons and

Controlled Substances Amendment (Drugs

of Dependence) Bill 2011’ – to increase

government responsivity to new and

emerging ‘legal’ substances such as

synthetic cannabinoids. Under the proposal

the Governor would have regulation-making

power to ban substances that are deemed to

pose a significant risk to the health of

consumers or public safety, for a 12 month

period, until the substances can be

proscribed into legislation and

Commonwealth regulations (28 Jun).

Development of a whole of government

Victorian Alcohol and Drug Strategy

commenced. The objectives were to:

• Decrease the current rates of alcohol

and other drug abuse in Victoria.

• Reduce the amount of harm that

alcohol and other drug abuse causes in

the community.

• Increase access to treatment options so

that people with an alcohol or drug

problem can get help when they need

it.

To enable input into the development, a

community consultation document was

released: ‘Victorian Alcohol and Drug

Strategy: Community Consultation’ which

led to over 120 written submissions (Aug).

Victorian Government established an

independent advisory group to provide

expert advice on AOD issues and to inform

the development of the new Victorian

Alcohol and Drug Strategy. Advisory group

included representatives from: Victoria

Police, Australian Hotels Association, Master

Grocers Australia, The Pharmacy Guild of

Australia (Victoria), Victorian Indigenous

Youth Advisory Council, Australian Drug

Foundation, VAADA, and City of Greater

Bendigo. Chair: Professor Richard Larkins

law and order crackdown: ‘we are declaring

war on drugs’ (Jul).

Labor’s Cannabis Control Act repealed,

making it a criminal offence to use, possess

or grow cannabis in WA. Under the new laws

people apprehended with up to 10 grams of

cannabis or a smoking implement may be

issued a Cannabis Intervention Requirement

(CIR) and diverted to a one hour cannabis

intervention session. Successful completion

will mean the offender will avoid receiving a

criminal conviction. New laws came into

effect August 1 (Aug).

Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill proposed

by Police Minister Rob Johnson assented to.

Key aspects included:

• A mandatory minimum term of 12

months jail for any adult found guilty of

causing harm to a child during the

production of illegal drugs;

• A mandatory minimum term of 12

months jail for a second or subsequent

offence that exposes a child to harm

during the production of illegal drugs;

• A comprehensive definition of drug

paraphernalia and related offences

(Nov).

Australian Lawyers Alliance national director

Tom Percy QC labeled the proposed

legislation ‘desperate’, ineffective and ‘an

admission of failure’ of the states inability to

control clandestine drug laboratories growth

in WA (Aug).

Western Australian Police launched a special

strike force, Operation Kukri 2, to rescue

children living among volatile clandestine

drug labs (Aug).

Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill adopted –

with the support of both sides of parliament

(Nov).

WA ten year strategic policy for mental

health released: “Mental Health 2020:

Making it personal and everybody’s

business” (Nov).

WA Police Air Wing conducted a one week

operation involving reconnaissance flights to

locate cannabis crops from the air. It led to

the removal of 1287 cannabis plants from

the South West District (Dec).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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(Aug).

The Department of Health released the

Victorian framework for recovery-oriented

practice (for mental health specifically)

(Aug).

In response to the Momcilovic High Court

ruling that upheld the right of the courts to

deem sections of the Drugs Act to be

incompatible with the Victorian Human

Rights Charter the Victorian Attorney-

General Robert Clark announced he was

considering amending the Drugs, Poisons

and Controlled Substances Act 1981 (Vic)

(the Drugs Act) (Sep).

Amendment to the Drugs, Poisons and

Controlled Substances Act 1981 banned the

sale, display and supply of bongs in Victoria

from 1 Jan 2012. Minister for Mental Health

Mary Wooldridge said this addressed a long-

standing contradiction in Victorian law

namely that it was illegal to smoke cannabis

but legal to display & buy bongs (Oct).

2010

SA Police Corporate Business plan

2010-2011 adopted. Included the strategy

of focussing on possession and use of illicit

drugs (Jun).

Independent MLC Ann Bressington tabled a

new bill. The Controlled Substances (Simple

Cannabis Offences) Bill 2010 proposed to

reduce the expiable amount under the

current Cannabis Expiation Notice Scheme

from 100g to 25grams cannabis, in an effort

to reduce the potential for dealers to avoid

criminal prosecution (Sep).

Amendments to the Road Safety (Alcohol

and Drugs) Act 1970 were introduced to

increase the penalties for drug driving in

Tasmania, in-line with penalties imposed for

drink driving offences. Additionally, a person

who commits any alcohol or drug driving

related offence will be deemed to have

committed a subsequent offence, if that

person has previously been convicted for

either offence (Jan).

Southern District Drug Investigation

Services (DIS) concluded a major

investigation concerning the sale and

distribution of amphetamines and cannabis.

The investigation resulted in 14 people

being charged with trafficking offences, and

13 people being charged with the sale of

controlled drugs (Feb).

Review of Opioid Prescribing practices in

Tasmania commenced. The project seeks to

reduce the harm caused through the misuse

of pharmaceutical opioids in Tasmania

(Aug).

New report released: “Tasmanian Drug

Strategy (TDS) 2005-2009: Report of

actions and achievement,” based on

stakeholder consultations with government,

local council and community sector

organisations. Key findings were:

• The TDS was deemed an important

overarching strategic framework that

Opposition leader Ted Bailleau said if elected

he would ‘ban the bong’ to send a clear

message to young people about the harmful

effects of cannabis (Jan).

Push by a doctor from the Royal Melbourne

Hospital's neurology department to trial

Sativex -a liquid marijuana-based mouth

spray- to ease the symptoms and pain of

MS sufferers. Push followed evidence that

Sativex could alleviate loss of movement

control & pain & imminent regulatory

approval in the UK & Spain (Jan).

Evidence from the 2008 Drug Use

Monitoring in Australian survey of police

detainees reported 48% detainees in

Footscray tested positive to heroin

(compared to a national rate of 11%) (Feb).

Supreme Court of Appeal: R v MOMCILOVIC

[2010] VSCA 50 found that s 5 of the Drugs,

Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981

(‘the Drugs Act’), was inconsistent with

Victoria’s Charter of Human Rights and

Responsibilities Act 2006. The court

declared that section 5 of the Drugs Act,

which declares that an occupier of premises

in which drugs are found is deemed to be in

possession of those drugs unless he/she

‘satisfies the court to the contrary’, cannot

be interpreted consistently with “the

presumption of innocence under s 25(1) of

the Charter". In so doing, the Court rejected

Reports by the 2008-09 Illicit Drug Data

Report that ecstasy pills in Western

Australia had become the cheapest in the

country – at as little as $17 per pill and that

there had been 78 clan lab seizures in WA in

2008-09 - a 160% increase from 2007-08

(Jun).

The WA Government announced it was

establishing a Mental Health Commission

(Feb).

WA Police commenced use of passive drug

detection dogs at entertainment precincts

and train stations. Policy aimed to clamp

down on substance abuse in entertainment

precincts (Jul).

WA Drug and Alcohol Office along with the

Road Safety Council and Western Australian

Network of Alcohol and Other Drug Agencies

launched a new drug driving campaign. This

campaign will attempt to combat the high

proportion (1 in 3) of those, either driver or

rider, who have died in a car accident and

tested positive for illicit drugs (Sep).

WA Drug and Alcohol Office launched a new

advertising campaign as part of the latest

phase in the Alcohol Think Again campaign.

It targets the belief that getting drunk is

acceptable and comes at a time where the

state is seeing a 17% rise in hospitalisations

for alcohol-related issues between 2006/07

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coordinates Tasmanian activity to

alcohol, tobacco & other drugs;

• The aims and priorities of the TDS were

considered still relevant;

Yet, concerns were raised about:

• Limited awareness of the TDS, its

significance & relationship to other

strategies (especially the NDS & actions

emanating from the TDS);

• That the review was being conducted

during a very volatile time of national

reform; and

• The lack of data available to enable a

more comprehensive evaluation of the

TDS to be conducted;

Recommendations were:

• The IAWGD should consider reviewing

its communication strategy and

procedures;

• The new TDS should align with the new

NDS, even if this means delaying the

release of the TDS;

• The new TDS should identify key

performance data, to enable evaluation

of effectiveness (Aug).

The IAWGD sought approval of the Minister

for Health to extend the Tasmanian Drug

Strategy 2005-2009 to the end of 2012. Key

reasons were that this would enable time for

the IAWGD to progress some matters raised

in the review of the TDS while national

health reforms were clarified and relevant

Tasmanian initiatives finalised (Nov).

The comprehensive review of the Tasmanian

Psychostimulants Action Plan 2007-2009

was completed and report released: “Report

on the 2010 review of the Tasmania

Pschyostimulants Action Plan 2007-2008.”

The review was conducted in two-stages by

the Department of Police and Emergency

Management on behalf of the Inter Agency

Working Group on Drugs (IAWGD). Key

conclusions were:

• The aims of the Plan had been met, and

had helped lead agencies to implement

& coordinate action to

psychostimulants;

• The Plan had contributed towards

declines in psychostimulant use;

• Lead agencies generally supported the

continuation of the Plan, but there was

also a push to develop a much broader

illicit drug plan, to account for the

changing drug use trends in Tasmania

arguments advanced on behalf of the

Attorney-General that the infringement of

the presumption of innocence by s 5 of the

Drugs Act was a ‘reasonable limit [which]

can be demonstrably justified in a free and

democratic society.’ But the court upheld

the conviction against Momcilovic and

concluded that the declaration of

inconsistent interpretation under the Charter

did not affect the validity of s 5 (Mar).

Reports by the 2008-09 Illicit Drug Data

Report that the price of cocaine in Victoria

had dropped to $20 (May).

Victorian Drug & Alcohol Prevention Council

released the report, “2009 Victorian Youth

Alcohol and Drug Survey” which measured

use of and attitudes towards alcohol and

drugs among 16-24 year old Victorians.

Between 2004 and 2009 self-reported

lifetime use of any illicit drug decreased

from 51.7% to 41.3% and recent use

decreased from 31.4% to 25.6% (May).

A public sentencing survey was conducted in

response to a Coalition election promise that

they would provide Victorians with the

opportunity to have direct input into future

sentencing. The survey was conducted for

one month and used 17 hypothetical case

studies including on murder, manslaughter,

rape and two categories of drug trafficking.

The survey generated a total of 18,562

responses and indicated the harshest

sentences were reserved for murder and

drug trafficking in a large commercial

quantity (Jul-Aug).

Release of report by the Burnet Institute:

“The Potential and Viability for Establishing a

Supervised Injecting Facility in Melbourne.”

Report funded by the Yarra Drug and Health

Forum reviewed evidence from 76

supervised injecting facilities (SIF)

throughout the world and concluded the

facilities led to public health benefits and

improved public amenity and community

well-being. The report concluded that fixed

or mobile SIFs could be suitable for

Melbourne. But they recommended that

attaining SIFs would require an advocacy

strategy to gain community and political

support and investigation of the viability of

integrating a SIF within existing Victorian

harm reduction and treatment services

(Jun).

to 2008/09 (Sep).

Cannabis Law Reform Bill 2009 assented to.

The bill will repeal the Cannabis Control Act

2003 and the Cannabis Control Regulations

2004, effectively replacing the Cannabis

Infringement Notice scheme (CIN) with a

Cannabis Intervention Requirement (CIR)

scheme. Under the new law offenders

detected for use or possession of cannabis

and/or smoking implements can avoid

criminal prosecution only if:

• They possess up to 10 grams of

cannabis; and

• They complete a Cannabis

Intervention Session (CIS) (usually

within 28 days).

Key rules include that:

• Those under 18 receive up to 2

opportunities to receive a CIS;

• Those over 18 receive up to 1

opportunity.

The new bill also makes sale of

paraphernalia to a young person subject to

a fine of $24,000 and/or 2 years

imprisonment and sale of cannabis smoking

paraphernalia to adults subject to a fine of

up to $10,000 (Oct 14).

Project STOP mandated in Western

Australia, requiring all pharmacists to use

electronic real time recording of

pseudoephedrine products prior to making

decisions about the legitimacy of sales of

pseudoephedrine-based products. This made

Western Australia the second state,

following Queensland to mandate real time

monitoring (Nov).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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(particularly reductions in

psychostimulant use and increasing

harms from other illicit and licit drugs)

(Dec).

The IAWGD sought approval of the Minister

for Health for an extension of the Tasmanian

Psychostimulants Action Plan 2007-2009 to

the end of 2013 (Dec).

Cross Sector Bus Tour commenced by the

Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug Council

(ATDC) to improve the capacity and

knowledge of workers in the area of ATOD

and mental health and other community

sector and government services, through

exposure to different services and

opportunities to network.

Yarra Drug and Health Forum commenced

advocacy for a mobile supervised injecting

van for Melbourne. They argued this would

best meet residential concern about public

injection, particularly surrounding the

housing commissions in Fitzroy and

Collingwood (Jun).

Statewide expansion of the Court Integrated

Services Program was announced. This

followed evaluations of the pilot program

(introduced in July 2006) which showed

reductions in reoffending and estimates of

$5 million in savings (up to $5.9 for every

dollar invested) (Jun).

Victoria Police developed a proactive

strategy to address illicit drug use at dance

events by conducting a training trial to

enable Passive Alert Dogs to detect unlawful

use/possession of 1, 4 Butanediol and GBL.

Both precursor chemicals were sold and

consumed as GHB and had contributed to a

recent increase in overdoses in Victorian

dance festivals.

Victoria Police expanded the provision of

Crime And Traffic Connecting on Highways

(CATCH) training to law enforcement

agencies from other states and territories.

Victorian Alcohol and Drugs Association

released a report, Review of the cost of

Counselling Consultancy and Continuing

Care (CCCC) drug and alcohol services,

which provides evidence for significant

structural underfunding across the Victorian

Alcohol and Other drug sector. They

recommended a number of measures to

address this problem with one being the

Department of Health funding the full cost of

CCCC (Aug).

Inquiry into the Impact of Drug-Related

Offending On Female Prisoner Numbers –

Interim Report released by the Drugs and

Crime Prevention Committee. Report

showed female prisoners had increased by

27% from 2008 to 2009 (compared to only

3% for males). Concluded this reflected a

shift towards increased use of imprisonment

as a first resort for females on remand and

a failure to recognise that the causes of

female drug-related offending are often

more complex (than for males), and

requires systematic approaches to address

frequent histories of trauma, mental health

issues and debt (Oct).

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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After a two year investigation targeting a

number of alleged organised crime

syndicates involved in the production of

cannabis, the largest single operation in

Victoria Police’s history was conducted.

'Operation Entity' sought to reduce the

supply of cannabis through high-level

market disruption, and involved: >630

Victoria Police members, Australian Federal

Police, Australian Customs and Border

Protection Service, Department of

Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), Office

of Public Prosecutions, AUSTRAC, Australian

Taxation Office, State Revenue Office, New

Zealand Police, Australian Crime

Commission and a number of power

companies. Police executed 69 search

warrants on cannabis grow houses across

Victoria; 9296 cannabis plants were seized;

43 persons arrested; millions of dollars in

criminal assets have been restrained to

date; and a number of ‘Persons of Interest’

were identified by DIAC amongst those

arrested (Nov 23).

The Victorian Liberal party was elected,

under Premier Ted Bailleau under a platform

of a tough zero tolerance approach to crime

(Dec 2).

2009

Statutes Amendment (Transport Portfolio-

Alcohol and Drugs) Act 2009 adopted.

Legislation increased penalties for

individuals convicted of drug driving

offences. Under the new law any driver who

has expiated or been convicted of 2 or more

drug driving offences in the 5 years

immediately preceding the date of

application for a new license will be referred

to a Driver Assessment Clinic. License

provision will be refused to any driver found

to be drug dependent until such time as

they can prove they are no longer

dependent on drugs (Mar).

Attorney-General Hon. Michael Atkinson

made the first declaration of a ‘criminal

enterprise’ under the Serious and Organised

Crime (Control) Act 2008. The declaration

applied to the Finks Motorcycle club, for

reasons including that members had 173

convictions for drug offences (14 May).

Control orders against two Finks Motorcycle

club members (Donald Hudson and Sandro

Tortani) requested under s14(1) of the

Serious and Organised Crime (Control) Act

2008. Magistrates Court issued court order

Tasmanian Corrections Minister introduced a

perimeter fence and additional sniffer dogs

in efforts to keep illicit drugs out of Risdon

prison (May).

The Inter Agency Working Group on Drugs

(IAWGD) noted that the Tasmania Drug

Strategy (TDS) 2005-2009 had come to an

end, and therefore needed some form of

review or evaluation, but that the NDS

2010-2014 which would also have future

implications for the new TDS remained

under development. It was decided that

while awaiting the outcome of the new NDS

an initial report of actions and achievements

would be prepared for Government, based

on stakeholder consultation about levels of

awareness and perceived relevance and

achievements of the TDS (Jun).

New strategy released: “Building the

Foundations for Mental Health and

Wellbeing: A Strategic Framework and

Action Plan for Implementing Promotion,

Prevention and Early Intervention (PPEI)

Approaches in Tasmania” (Jun).

The Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement

Victorian Mental Health Reform Strategy

2009 – 2019 adopted which recognised the

link between mental health and harmful D

and A use, and need for early identification

of and response to co-morbid problems in

an integrated networked system (Feb).

The Victorian Department of Human

Services released a “Discussion Paper on the

Forensic Drug Treatment System” in the aim

of improving treatment outcomes for

forensic clients (Feb).

Newly appointed Victoria Police

Commissioner Simon Overland said police

could not win a drug war and he would

support the decriminalisation of some drugs

“if there was evidence that was the best

way to go” (Mar).

First Victorian Amphetamine-Type

Stimulants and Related Drugs Strategy

2009- 2012 adopted. The strategy has five

priorities: prevention and early intervention;

treatment; workforce development; justice

and law enforcement; and new knowledge

collection and dissemination (Apr).

Twenty-six people were taken to hospital

WA Premier Mr Barnett revealed tackling

WA's drug problem would be at the forefront

of his government's agenda, declaring that

‘Labor had a tolerance of drug-taking’ … ‘we

are going to change that’ (Jan).

Death of Gemma Thoms, a 17 year

teenager, after she took 3 ecstasy tablets

before entering the Perth Big Day Out music

festival. Friends said she had panicked at

the sight of police searching festival goers

(Feb 1).

Media surrounding the death of Gemma

Thoms criticised the heavy-handedness of

police at music events and reignited debate

on the risks of particular methods of drug

law enforcement, especially the use of

sniffer dogs (Feb).

In an Australian first, WA Police trialed use

of drug amnesty bins at music concerts.

After 3 mths trial was deemed a failure. WA

Police found amnesty bins tied up a lot of

resources and were rarely used (Mar-Jun).

Media reports of brown Afghan heroin on the

streets in Perth (Mar).

The “Review of Western Australian Drug

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against Mr Hudson prohibiting him from

associating with other persons who are

members of declared organisations. Order

against Mr Tortani adjourned after he

initiated proceedings in the SA Supreme

Court that s14(1) of the Act was invalid

(May-Jun).

Adoption of the Controlled Substances

(Controlled Drugs, Precursors and Cannabis)

Amendment Act 2008 resulted in a number

of regulatory changes. Legislative changes

to the Schedules of the Controlled

Substances (Poisons) Regulations 1996 Act

led to the banning of an additional 60

chemicals that could be used in illicit drug

manufacturing. Legislative changes to the

Controlled Substances Act 1984 also created

new offences in relation to possession of a

controlled precursor or any prescribed

equipment intending to use it to

manufacture a controlled drug (Section 33J)

and possession of prescribed equipment

and/or prescribed quantities of controlled

precursors without reasonable excuse

(Section 33LB). Both offences became

punishable with up to $15,000 and/or 5

years imprisonment (Sep).

New legislation on sale of equipment for

hydroponic growth of cannabis adopted

(Hydroponics Industry Control Act 2009) in

the aim of “preventing criminal infiltration of

the hydroponics industry.” Under the new

legislation all individuals who buy proscribed

hydroponic equipment will have to submit

100 points of ID at the point of sale and all

hydroponic dealers will be required to

ensure all buyers pass appropriate tests

regarding their criminal histories. They are

also required to maintain records for every

transaction involving prescribed equipment,

and forward all information to the

Commissioner of police by way of an online

transaction monitoring system. Legislation

enacted March 2010 (Oct).

Adelaide Advertiser conducted an

investigation into drug consumption

patterns in Adelaide clubs and concluded

that “cash-strapped clubbers were shunning

high-priced alcohol” at bars in favour of

cheaper illicit drugs such as ecstasy (Oct).

SA Supreme Court decision: Totani & Anor v

The State of SA [2009] SASC 301. Declared

s 14(1) of Serious and Organised Crime

Studies released the Review of the Road

Safety (Alcohol and Drugs) Amendment Act

2005 (the review). A key finding was that

the penalties for drug driving (section 6A)

were lenient in comparison to those for

drink driving (section 6) (Jun).

New governance structure amalgamated the

Alcohol and Drug Service, Mental Health

Services, Health and Wellbeing Services,

Forensic Mental Health Service and

Correctional Primary Health Service into the

Statewide and Mental Health Services Unit

(Jul).

Transfer of Part 3 of the Alcohol and Drug

Dependency Act (ADDA) 1968 to the Poisons

Act 1971 passed both houses of Parliament.

The transferred provisions relate to the

prescribing and supply of certain

substances, in particular Schedule 8

substances and their prescribing by all

health professionals able to prescribe these

substances. Also included in the transfer

was the requirement for notification of drug

dependent persons and the conditions under

which such persons may be prescribed

Schedule 8 substances under an authority of

the Secretary of DHHS. The consolidation of

all prescribing aspects of such substances in

one piece of legislation was intended to

assist practitioners in understanding their

requirements and ensure consistency in

practice (Sep).

An interim review of the actions against the

Tasmanian Psychostimulants Action Plan

was conducted at the end of 2009. The

review indicated a commitment to the aims

of the Action Plan by Lead Agencies and

those Agencies reported significant activity

against the objectives of the Plan. The

IAWGD extended the Action Plan until

October 2010, in line with the development

of the next phase of both the National Drug

Strategy and the Tasmanian Drug Strategy.

A more comprehensive review of the Action

Plan was expected to be undertaken in the

second half of 2010 (Sep).

after reportedly overdosing at a Melbourne

rave on GHB. This followed 30 overdoses at

a Festival Hall event and 10 at a

Summadayze music festival (Apr).

Dutch music festival promoters cancelled

their upcoming Melbourne rave saying there

were too many people who took GHB at

Melbourne music events and it was

tarnishing the reputation of festival

organisers (Apr).

Victoria Police commenced a pilot program

aimed at improving the detection of

contraband on roads. The program Crime

And Traffic Connecting on Highways

(CATCH) brought in an additional $317,000

worth of illicit drugs and other contraband

over the 6 month trial (July-Dec 2009).

More than 100 Melbourne-based drug

couriers were identified smuggling heroin

from Vietnam for seven major crime

syndicates. The couriers identified by a

taskforce involving Victoria Police, Australian

Customs and Australian Federal Police were

recruited from the Western suburbs to pay

off gambling and business debts. Most were

Vietnamese (Jul).

Report from the Youth Drug Reporting

System (YDRS) released: “Social contexts of

substance use for vulnerable 13 –15 year

olds in Melbourne”. Report sought to

enhance understanding of the patterns and

meanings of illicit drug use among hard-to-

reach youth populations. This identified that

substance use played a central role in the

lives of young people but that few young

people viewed their drug use as problematic

and most wanted to be seen as competent,

not vulnerable (Oct).

Victorian Police expand drug driving testing

with provision of extra 25,500 drug testing

kits and 25 extra secondary testing

machines (Nov).

Victorian Premier John Brumby promised to

launch an investigation into claims of

increased drug use at the Dame Phyllis Frost

Centre amid concern about the amount of

contraband smuggled into Victoria's largest

women's jail and increasing overdoses

(Nov).

Launch of a new interactive website

“Bluebelly” that seeks to reduce harm for

users of ecstasy, meth/amphetamines and

cocaine. Harm reduction information

Driving Laws” by the Centre for Automotive

Safety Research identified problems with the

drug testing kits (the Cozart Drug Detection

System). The kits were giving false

negatives, particularly for THC. Given such

problems the reviewers recommended

delaying the general roll out of drug driving

testing in WA and that a further 12 month

trial be undertaken with new drug testing

kits (Apr).

Radio announcements used to spread

knowledge particularly amongst Indigenous

communities about drug diversion programs

in Western Australia. This was designed to

increase uptake of diversion programs

(Apr??).

Parliamentary inquiry by the Education and

Health Committee established into the

Adequacy and Appropriateness of Prevention

and Treatment Services for Alcohol and

Illicit Drug Problems in Western Australia.

Terms of reference included establishing the

impact and social costs of AOD problems to

the WA community, the adequacy of current

training for medical and other health

professionals in AOD issues and the

adequacy, accessibility and appropriateness

of services for school-aged students,

treatment and prevention services (May).

Submissions occurred June 2009-June 2010.

Inaugural conference held “Making it

Happen: responding to Alcohol and Other

Drug (AOD) issues across the sectors” which

brought together more than 500 delegates

from government and non-government

alcohol and drug agencies. Conference was

hosted by the Western Australian Drug and

Alcohol Office, Palmerston Association,

Department for Child Protection,

Department of Corrective Services,

Department of the Attorney General and the

Mental Health Division (Dep of Health) (11-

13 May).

WA Liberal party provided $500,000 funding

for Dr George O’Neil’s struggling Naltrexone

clinic on the condition that he appoint an

independent researcher to determine the

steps needed to attain registration of the

Naltrexone implants with the Therapeutic

Goods Administration (May).

Education and Health Standing Committee

Inquiry into the Adequacy and

Appropriateness of Prevention and

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(Control) Act 2008 invalid (Nov).

Trial of 24 hour needle syringe vending

machines commenced at two existing needle

syringe program sites in Murray Bridge and

Noorlunga. The 12 month trial involving the

provision of with 8 x 1ml syringes for $2.00

was initiated by Drug and Alcohol Services

South Australia (30 Nov).

Serious and Organised Crime (Unexplained

Wealth) Act 2009 adopted which allowed for

the creation and enforcement of

‘unexplained wealth orders’ and

amendments to the Criminal Assets

Confiscation Act 2005. Under the new law

the state no longer had to prove that the

defendant had committed a serious offence

in order to confiscate wealth. Instead an

order of unexplained wealth can be applied

(when current and/or past assets exceed

lawfully obtained wealth) and confiscated

(Nov).

Adoption of legislation that included

measures to prevent the trafficking of drugs

and alcohol into the APY Lands (Dec).

including stories and tips is updated and

added to collaboratively by hosts and

registered users (Nov).

Victoria Police detectives seized 260 litres of

a liquid industrial solvent being masked as a

"harmless" party drug by crime

syndicates. A drought of gamma

hydroxybutyrate (commonly known as GHB,

GBH, grievous bodily harm, fantasy or liquid

ecstasy) had prompted syndicates to turn to

gamma butyrolactone (GBL) and similar

chemicals (Dec).

Severe Substance Dependence Treatment

Bill 2009 introduced for debate. Bill

proposed to repeal the Alcoholics and Drug-

dependent Persons Act 1968 and enable the

detention and treatment of persons with a

severe substance dependence for up to 14

days under the following conditions:

• The person has a severe substance

dependence;

• Immediate treatment is necessary and

urgent to save the person's life or

prevent serious damage to the person's

health;

• The treatment can only be provided by

admitting them to a treatment centre;

and

• There is no less restrictive means

reasonably available to ensure treatment

is provided (Dec).

Treatment Services for Alcohol and Illicit

Drug Problems in Western Australia (May).

As part of the 2009-10 budget the WA

Liberals announced a new Custodial

Infrastructure Program: the most significant

custodial expansion in WA history. The

program is estimated to cost $655 million

and will provide an additional 1,657 prisoner

beds across the Western Australian prison

system by the end of 2014. As part of this

two new prisons will be constructed: the

West Kimberley Regional Prison (150 beds)

and the Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison

(350 beds) (May).

WA police commenced use of sniffer dogs

(Jun).

Discussion paper released by WA Law

Reform Commission into Court intervention

programs. Paper recommended and has

asked for comment on the idea of expanding

eligibility criteria for drug diversion through

mainstream courts and drug courts (Jun).

Unlicensed Driving Vehicle Sanctions

introduced. Sanctions range from 28 day

roadside impoundment to court imposed

sanctions for repeat offenders including

impoundment for up to 3 or 6 months

duration. Law has potential to impact upon

individuals who have their license

suspended under the cannabis infringement

notice scheme. Enacted 1 July.

WA Drug and Alcohol Office introduced a bi-

annual newsletter summarizing drug and

alcohol trends in WA: Pulsecheck (Aug).

Northbridge entertainment precinct was

declared a “designated public area” within

which police could stop and search any

person without provision of reasonable

suspicion, subject to the adoption of the

Prohibited Behaviours Bill. The new ruling

was designed to reduce anti-social behavior

in the precinct (Oct).

New bill introduced (Prohibited Behaviours

Bill) to empower police to fight anti-social

behaviour and drug offences in WA. The new

legislation would mean police could stop and

search a person or a vehicle in specifically

declared public areas without the

requirement that they have to prove

reasonable suspicion. It would also mean

that the court could enforce two year orders

on offenders (anyone aged over 14) who

have been deemed to repeatedly engage in

Caitlin Hughes – Last updated 15 January 2020. For comments email: caitlin.hughes@flinders.edu.au

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anti-social behaviour including alcohol-

fuelled violence, graffiti or inappropriate

behaviour in public spaces and publish if

deemed necessary the names, photos or

description of any offender (Dec).

Cannabis Law Reform Bill 2009 tabled.

Proposed changes to the law include:

• the introduction of a new limit for

possession of 10 grams of cannabis or

less – down from the existing 30

grams;

• a requirement for all first time cannabis

offenders (adult and juvenile) found in

possession of 10grams of cannabis or

less and/or a smoking implement with

traces of cannabis to attend a

mandatory cannabis intervention

session; and

• that cannabis cultivation be a criminal

offence (Dec).

A viral video, called Camel Girl was released

onto YouTube as part of the Drug and

Alcohol Office’s 2009/10 night venues and

entertainment events campaign. It was

designed as a ‘cult’ viral video to raise

awareness of the importance of drinking

water and rehydrating at festivals and

received over 45,000 unique views by March

2010 (24 Dec).

WA Collaboration for Substance Use and

Mental Health (WACSUMH) established to

bring together partners in the mental

health, AOD, health and other related

sectors to progress work around workforce

development, the creation of a care pathway

and the progression of promotion and

prevention initiatives.

Guidelines for concerts, events and

organised gatherings issued by WA Health,

including on crowd dynamics, management

of alcohol and drug-related issues (Dec).

2008

Evaluation of the Police Drug Diversion

Initiative (PDDI) was completed. Report

showed there had been a total of 4,689

youth and adults diverted during the first 4

years. On average 67% offenders complied,

but compliance was higher amongst youth

and offenders diverted for the first time. Key

impacts included short and long term

reductions in drug use and offending and

improvements in social functioning. But

impacts were not homogenous and in some

offenders use and offending increased.

An independent Review of Alcohol, Tobacco

and Other Drug Services in Tasmania was

completed. The review identified numerous

problems in service provision including

unmet demand, inadequate systems of

referrals, high rates of take away

pharmacotherapy doses and poor patient

management. The report also identified that

the AOD sector in Tasmania had a poor

profile and inadequate systems of data

collection. Key causes were workforce

shortages, insufficient funds, poor training

Legislation on compulsory drug testing

within Victoria Police extended to include all

members in “selected units” e.g. drug

squad. New laws were set to commence in

August (Apr).

Victorian Alcohol and Other Drug Quality

Framework released. Six core standards

were specified for AOD treatment in

Victoria:

• Consumer Focus

• Evidence-based Practice

• Continuous Quality Improvement

Aboriginal Drug Court day program

commenced at Perth Drug Court. Program

ran one afternoon per week and provided

dedicated Aboriginal specific rehabilitation

and counseling options for Indigenous

participants (Jan).

Largest domestic seizure of MDMA recorded

in Western Australia. The 45kg of MDMA

powder was shipped from the Netherlands

(Apr).

Joint agency taskforce involving Australian

Federal Police (AFP), Western Australia

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Evaluators concluded the program appeared

successful but also recommended changes

including providing feedback to police and

modifying the referral system (Mar).

Amendments to the Summary Offences Act

1953 banned the sale of equipment used to

consume illegal drugs, e.g. bongs, ice pipes

and cocaine kits, and made such offences

punishable by up to $10,000 or two years'

imprisonment for an individual and $50,000

for a body corporate (Jun).

Controlled Substances (Drug Detection

Powers) Amendment Bill 2008 adopted,

increasing police powers to screen for illicit

drugs using drug detection dogs. The

amendments allowed deployment of passive

drug detection dogs for general duties:

screening potential users and dealers inside

and outside nightclubs, pubs, concerts,

festivals and, major sporting events, on

board public transport and at train and bus

stations. The amendments also allowed

police to establish and conduct specific

drug-detection screening operations on

identified drug-transit routes and to use

drug detection dogs, electronic drug

detection systems or emerging technology,

e.g. odour-detecting devices & swabbing

wands to detect for the presence of

controlled drugs, precursors or plants. This

entered into force Oct 2008 (Jul).

Amendments to the Controlled Substances

Act 1984 increased penalties against the

cultivation of hydroponic cannabis.

Maximum penalties for cultivation of

hydroponic cannabis plants increased from

$500 to $1000 and/or 6 months

imprisonment and sale or possession of

lamps and reflectors used to produce crops

were made illegal (penalty of up to $10,000

or two years' imprisonment) (Jul).

New treatment facility opened – the Amata

Substance Abuse Facility – for Indigenous

people who live or come from the Anangu

Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Region. The

service provides residential rehabilitation

and a mobile outreach for people who

misuse petrol, alcohol, cannabis and other

substances (Aug).

Serious and Organised Crime (Control) Act

2008 adopted. Legislation introduced new

provisions that gave the government, acting

though the attorney general and state police

and systems of governance and the lack of a

statewide client information system. They

recommended establishing a separate A&D

unit within the DHHS organisational

structure, creating a new governance

system to include NGOs and user input,

significant investment to expand service

provision and training ($10-15 million per

year) and the adoption of a statewide client

information system (Jan).

Tasmania Police commenced use of drug

detection dogs (Feb).

The First Annual ATDC Conference: ATOD

Practice, Integration & Development held.

Conference brought together policy makers

and service providers from ATOD and

related fields with aim of strengthening

relationships, identify priority areas and

building skills and knowledge (Apr).

$17.1 million allocated in the 2008-09

Tasmanian Budget towards implementation

of the recommendations of the alcohol,

tobacco and other drug services review

(Jul).

Media reports that Tasmania’s drug

rehabilitation system was in crisis with new

clients being unable to receive treatment

(Jul).

First Needle Syringe Vending Machine trialed

in Devonport (Jul).

The Pharmaceutical Services Branch of the

Department of Health and Human Services

received funding from the Commonwealth’s

Health Connect program to develop and

introduce a real time reporting system

(RTR). This project enabled the real time

secure monitoring of the Schedule 8

medications (such as morphine and

oxycodone) that had been dispensed in

Tasmanian pharmacies participating in RTR.

The move from the previously required

monthly retrospective reporting to real time

reporting increased the capacity to monitor

the prescribing of these medications (as

required by legislation) and to provide more

accurate advice to patients (Jul).

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Services,

Future Service Directions – a five year plan,

2008/09 – 2012/13 adopted. Key initiatives

include:

• Developing a whole of government

alcohol & drug harm reduction strategy

• Establishing a consumer participation

• Corporate and Clinical Governance

• Workforce development and

• Partnerships (Apr).

Victorian Department of Human Services

commenced implementation of the

Victorian Dual Diagnosis Action Plan 2007-

2010 (May).

Victorian Government issued a discussion

paper proposing amendments to the Drugs,

Poisons and Controlled Substances Act

1981 to mandate a sales, storage and

record-keeping regime for nominated

precursor chemicals and equipment to

prevent their diversion to the manufacture

of illicit drugs in clandestine laboratories

(Jun).

New research confirmed that ambulance

attendances involving gamma-

hydroxybutyrate (GHB) in Melbourne had

increased at a much higher rate than

paramedic callouts for heroin. The research

published in the Medical Journal of Australia

revealed clear resource implications: 90%

of GHB OD patients were transported to

hospital vs. 21% heroin (Jun).

The Victorian Ombudsman recommended

strengthening preventative and detection

processes in Victorian prisons to lessen the

risks associated with contraband, including

illicit drugs (Jun).

Trial of 24 hour Needle Syringe provision in

St Kilda extended until 2010 (Sep).

Access Point Stimulant Treatment Centres

established in St Kilda and Fitzroy on one

year trial to provide information, advice and

treatment for stimulant users (Sep).

A New Blueprint for Alcohol and Other Drug

Treatment Services 2009-2013 -Client-

centred, Service-focused was released. The

blueprint set out the vision to “prevent and

reduce the harms to individuals, families

and communities” by becoming more client

centred and service focused by making links

into, through and out of treatment clearer

and more integrated, and prioritising

prevention and earlier intervention,

removing barriers to services and improving

the quality, consistency and responsiveness

of services and interventions. Specified

strategies included:

• Ensuring routine dual diagnosis

screening for all young people entering

treatment

Police (WAPol), Australian Crime

Commission (ACC) and Customs seized the

largest recorded pill-making press in WA

and arrested members of an emerging

ecstasy syndicate, thereby dismantling the

intended establishment of a large MDMA lab

in Perth (May).

Needle and Syringe Program Review 2007

released. Report identified that there had

been a 16.5% increase in the number of

needles and syringes distributed between

2001 and 2006 and that while Needle

Syringe Exchange Programs accounted for

only 2% NSP outlets they distributed 55% of

all needles and syringes. This reflected

changing consumer preferences. Evaluators

identified the need for ongoing training

(particularly for pharmacies where only 52%

staff were trained) and recommended

integrating NSPs in rural/remote areas into

primary health care services and expanding

the use of vending machines (Jul).

Needle Syringe Vending Machines

introduced in Geraldton Regional Hospital

and Nickol Bay Hospital (Aug).

WA Liberals elected in coalition with the

Nationals and Independents on a mandate

to repeal the Cannabis Infringement Notice

Scheme and provide a tougher response to

cannabis (Sep).

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commissioner, powers to declare ‘criminal

enterprises’: any organisation which

represents a risk to public safety and order

of the State and where members associate

for the purpose of organising, planning,

facilitating, supporting or engaging in

serious criminal activity. The legislation also

allowed for the introduction of control orders

on individuals to prohibit offenders from

associating or communicating with other

members of organized crime groups,

prohibit possession of dangerous weapons

and/or prevent access to specified venues

and introduced offences of criminal

association (Sep).

Amendments to the Controlled Substances

Act 1984 made possession of 30 different

pieces of equipment involved in

amphetamine or cannabis manufacturing or

cultivation e.g. high intensity lamps, carbon

filters, tablet presses and distilling devices

and possession of documents containing

instructions for the manufacture or

cultivation of illicit substances punishable

with $10,000 and/or 2 years imprisonment

(Oct).

Evaluation of Youth CARDS (Court

Assessment and Referral Drug Scheme)

showed that during the 13 month pilot there

had been very low referrals (only 71, of

whom 51 were put onto the program) and

only half participants completed the

program. But the program was associated

with reductions in drug-related harm and

reductions in criminal offending (down from

3.1 to 1.5 events in 6 months pre and post

completion). The reviewers concluded the

program was “likely to meet its objectives,”

but questioned the viability given the low

referral numbers. This was attributed in part

to mixed stakeholders views as to the merits

of the program (Nov).

South Australia Police adopted their second

illicit drug strategy: ‘Illicit Drug Strategy

2008 – 2011’ (Dec).

framework to ensure that consumers

have input into the planning,

development & delivery of services and

• Undertaking a review of the Alcohol and

Drug Dependency Act, 1968, to establish

a legislative framework that reflects

contemporary models of service

provision (Dec).

• Stronger support and training resources

for GPs to intervene earlier and

• Redeveloping funding and reporting

systems to promote service flexibility

and innovation (Dec).

2007

SA Government requested an assessment of

the threat posed by organised crime to the

South Australian community that included

the identification of legislative barriers that

facilitate organised crime.

SA Premier Rann unveiled his intention to

introduce a comprehensive set of laws

designed to make a major dent into

Review of Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug

Treatment Services in Tasmania

commenced.

Court mandated drug diversion program

introduced (Aug).

Tasmanian Psychostimulants Action Plan

2007-2009 adopted to reduce supply &

demand of psychostimulants and develop

New Mental Health and Drugs Division

commenced operation and the Minister for

Mental Health convened Victoria’s first drug

taskforce on ‘ice’ and amphetamines to

guide the State Government’s strategy

(Mar)

Discussion paper released titled “Towards a

New Blueprint for Alcohol And Other Drug

WA Police commenced random roadside

drug testing for cannabis, amphetamines

and ecstasy (May).

WA Illicit Amphetamine Drug Summit held

to identify and develop strategies to respond

to amphetamines (3 July).

WA Illicit Amphetamine Summit –

Government Action Plan adopted. Included

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organised crime in South Australia. The

proposed set of laws covered more coercive

powers of investigation, confiscating

unexplained wealth, laws against association

with criminal members and toughened

controls on precursor chemicals and

equipment for drug manufacturing (Jul).

South Australia Police announced the

creation of a Crime Gang Task Force to

enforce the states new organised crime laws

(Aug).

guidelines for safer environments of use

(Nov).

The Tasmanian Sexually Transmissible

Infections and Blood Borne Viruses Action

Plan 2007 – 2008 was endorsed by the

Minister for Health and Human Services,

with the goal of minimising the transmission

of HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B and

other drug related harms to injecting drug

users and to the wider community. A

number of initiatives commenced at Needle

and Syringe Program (NSP) contact points

to improve the provision of education, brief

intervention and referral for people who

inject drugs. These include increased

education and training of NSP workers, the

implementation of operational guidelines

and practice standards throughout NSP

primary outlets, and improved permit

training and accreditation for NSP workers.

Under the plan DHHS also provided hepatitis

C blood awareness and drug safety

education in prisons, youth detention

facilities, schools, and to people from

culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD)

backgrounds. DHHS continued to support

the Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) with

an addition to the program on Hobart’s

Eastern Shore and a trial of needle and

syringe dispensing machines in Devonport

and Invermay rolled out in 2008-09.

(AOD) Treatment Services” (Mar).

Earlier identification of drug harms project

(EIDHP) commenced by the Turning Point

Alcohol and Drug Centre. The project sought

to provide an early warning system to

Victorian policy makers through an

information collection system that on a bi-

monthly basis draws together insights from

interviews with key stakeholders and

surveillance data including ambulance

attendances, treatment data and the pattern

of needle and syringe distribution (Mar).

Victorian Government released report on

“Dual diagnosis: Key directions and

priorities for service development” (Jun).

Victoria Police adopted an Illicit Drug

Strategy 2007-2011 involving three

approaches: disruption; targeting repeat

offenders; and reducing re-offending

through the use of treatment and diversion

programs. The strategy outlined the need

for new tools to facilitate planning and

performance monitoring. These included a

drug attribution model (to collect and

analyse information on the drug problem)

and a drug harm index (to quantify the

amount of harm being caused by drugs)

that were proposed to be developed in the

first year of the strategy (Jul).

Discussion paper released on the “Victorian

amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) and

related drugs strategy 2007–2010” (Sep).

After six years of negotiation on drug

testing, the Police Regulation Amendment

Bill 2007 was adopted. Bill gave Victoria

Police Commissioner the restricted power to

drug and alcohol test Victoria Police

members, but only following critical

incidents e.g. police shootings (Oct).

A review titled “Ecstasy, ketamine & GHB: A

review of users and Victorian alcohol & other

drug treatment interventions” identified

current treatment EKG related interventions

and barriers to seeking interventions. The

research identified that while EKG users had

sought treatment for other drug use, they

did not see their use of EKG as a

problematic. Service providers reported that

infrequent contact with these clients

reduced the capacity of treatment services

to provide information to this group on the

long term effects of EKG (Nov).

Trial of 24 hour Needle Syringe provision at

49 initiatives arising from Drug Summit.

Review of Cannabis Infringement Notice (CIN)

scheme tabled in WA Parliament. Review

recommended continuing with the CIN

scheme, but expanding the scheme to

juveniles (with compulsory cannabis

education), reducing the quantity of cannabis

to which the scheme applied (from 30 to 15

grams), removing eligibility for cultivation of

any plants, and increasing fines for non-

compliance (Nov).

Criminal Code Amendment (Drink and Food

Spiking) Bill 2007 adopted. Bill created a new

offence of spiking a person’s drink or food with

an intoxicating substance with intent to harm

the person (maximum penalty 3 years

imprisonment or 12 months and a $12,000

fine for summary offence) (Nov).

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Health Information Exchange, St Kilda

(Nov).

Victorian Drug and Alcohol Prevention

Council (VDAPC) established to provide

expert advice to government. VDAPC

succeeded the Premier’s Drug Prevention

Council (PDPC) which finished in March 2007

(Dec).

2006

SA Police commenced random roadside drug

testing for cannabis and amphetamines

(Jul).

Tasmanian Law Reform Institute published a

report titled “The Establishment of a Drug

Court Pilot in Tasmania” which examined

whether Tasmania needed a drug court.

Report concluded that Tasmania should

adopt a drug court as well as a

comprehensive range of diversionary

options (Nov).

Hobart City Council’s second AOD strategy

adopted: “Alcohol and Other Drug Strategy

2006 – 2009”.

Victorian Drug Strategy 2006-2009 adopted

CounsellingOnline, an online counseling

service for drug users, family and friends,

was piloted by Turning Point Alcohol and

Drug Centre (May).

Roadside drug testing made permanent

following success of pilot and extended to

include testing for ecstasy (Jun).

Evaluation of Connect Us (an early

intervention partnership program for at risk

youth) found 80% of youth were engaged

post program participation, 42% in

employment or apprenticeships and 38% in

education (Oct).

2005

Evaluation of first set of Drug Summit

Initiatives completed. Concluded 2/3

initiatives had proceeded well and that

initiatives had added value and capacity in

SA response to drugs. Also noted need to

improve management (Feb).

South Australian Drug Strategy 2005-2010

adopted (Feb).

SA Justice Portfolio Drug Indicators Project –

first annual report released. This identified

five performance targets:

• Increased resilience of SA youth;

• Prevention of illicit drug use;

• Reduce drug related offending and

severity of offending;

• Ongoing reduction in overdose rates; &

Reduction and interruption in supply (Mar).

Youth CARDS (Court Assessment and

Referral Drug Scheme) introduced (Nov).

Tasmanian Drug Strategy 2005-2009 (TDS)

adopted. Strategy priorities community

safety, prevention and reduction and

improved access to treatment.

On 1 July new legislation was enacted

creating an offence of driving a motor

vehicle with illicit drugs in the body. The

Road Safety (Alcohol and Drugs)

Amendment Act 2005 provides authority for

police to conduct oral fluid (saliva) tests on

drivers (roadside drug testing) to detect the

presence of cannabis and amphetamines

(Jul).

Victorian Government GHB education

initiative (Mar).

Amendments to the Drugs, Poisons and

Controlled Substances Act banned the

display or sale of cocaine kits and imposed

penalties of $6,300 for individual offenders

or $31,500 for businesses (May).

Victoria Police Organised Crime Strategy

2005-2009 introduced. Core aims were:

developing a greater capacity to identify,

measure, prevent, disrupt and deter

organised crime; and better focusing

resources and powers on major criminal

threats (Dec).

Western Australian Drug and Alcohol

Strategy 2005-2009 adopted

HStrong Spirit Strong Mind- WA Aboriginal

Alcohol and Other Drugs Plan 2005-09H

adopted

Baseline evaluation of Cannabis

Infringement Notice Scheme completed

Conditional Suspended Imprisonment Order

(CSI) for use in drug court introduced (May)

Amendments to the Misuse of Drugs Act

1981 and Misuse of Drugs Regulations 1982

increase regulation of the supply of

precursor chemicals and apparatus. This

gave legislative backing to a previously

voluntary Code of Conduct to minimise the

risk of diversion of precursor chemicals and

apparatus for the manufacture of illicit

drugs.

2004

SA Parliament Legislative Review

Committee released report on the

Cannabis Expiation Scheme (Regulations

under the Controlled Substances Act

1984 and 2002). Report considered

whether a one non-hydroponic plant limit

undermined the original intention of the

CEN scheme. The committee concluded it

didn’t since it enabled an average user to

produce enough to supply them for a

year, but also reduced risk of exploitation

Final evaluation of the VGDI (Feb).

Koori Drug Diversion introduced

11 people were taken to hospital after

overdosing on GHB, Gamma

Hydroxybutyrate, at the Two Tribes dance

party at Rod Laver Arena (Mar).

Use of drug detection dogs in nightclubs

piloted by Victoria Police (May).

Report on Rural and Regional Service

Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme

introduced, for use or possession of up to

30g cannabis, possession of a smoking

implement or cultivation of up to 2 non-

hydroponic cannabis plants. Under the

scheme eligible offenders will have the

option to avoid a criminal conviction by

paying a fine or attending a cannabis

education session. Failure to pay will result

in a further fine and/or suspension of drivers

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by crime syndicates (Feb).

CARDS (Court Assessment and Referral

Drug Scheme) introduced (Jun)

South Australian Network of Drug and

Alcohol Services established as peak body

for drug and alcohol NGOs in SA.

System Review released: “Rural pathways:

A review of Victoria’s drug treatment system

in rural and regional Victoria” (Jul).

Report on Victoria’s youth drug treatment

system released: “Youth Service System

Review” (Sep).

Transport Accident Commission commenced

anti-drug driving advertisements (Nov).

Victoria Police commenced a pilot of

roadside drug saliva testing for cannabis and

amphetamines. Pilot targeted heavy vehicle

drivers, rave party patrons and general

public (Dec).

Evaluation of the Victorian Dual Diagnosis

Initiative (VDDI) found that the VDDI’s

effectiveness was strongly supported by

stakeholders. Evaluators recommended a

number of changes including that a strategy

be developed for promoting the VDDI at

sector management and policy levels, that

specific formal requirements be adopted

regarding use of the VDDI by agencies and

that there be improved upskilling and

training of the workforce.

license (Mar).

YPOP (Young Person’s Opportunity Program)

and IDP (Indigenous Diversion Program)

introduced

2003

Initial Criminal Justice Illicit Drugs

Performance Indicators report presented to

the Criminal Justice Leadership Group

(May).

SA Government expanded response to drug

summit: another 14 initiatives and $1.86

million (Sep).

Voluntary agreement adopted between the

Victorian Government, Australian Hotels

Association, the Nightclub Owners

Association and Restaurant and Catering

Victoria to provide free or low-cost drinking

water on licensed premises (Jun).

Koori Alcohol and Drug Plan 2003-04

released as precursor to a strategy (Sep).

First Service System Review (SSR) of

Victoria’s drug treatment system completed.

Connect Us (an early intervention

partnership program) initiated and funded

through the Premiers’ Drug Prevention

Council in the aim of identifying at risk

youth aged 16-21. The 12 month program

aimed to engage young people in education,

training and employment and thereby

prevent problematic drug use and minimise

risk taking behaviour.

Cannabis Control Act 2003 amended the

Misuse of Drugs Act 1981 to allow cannabis

infringement notices to be issued (Jan)

POP (Pre-sentence Opportunity Program)

introduced (Mar)

PSO (Pre-Sentence Order) for use in drug

court introduced (Sep)

STIR (Supervised Treatment Intervention

Regime) introduced (Nov)

2002

SA Labor Party elected (Feb)

SA Premier announced the Social Inclusion

Initiative and established a Social Inclusion

Unit (located in the Department of Premier

and Cabinet) to adopt a more integrated

and effective response to complex issues.

One of first target areas was drugs (Mar).

SA Police launched the ‘SAPOL Illicit Drug

Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council,

Tasmania (ATDC) established (12 Sep).

Drug Court introduced (May)

Rural Outreach Diversion introduced

Preliminary Evaluation of the VGDI

concluded with positive results – 30

initiatives implemented (Oct).

WA Drug and Alcohol Strategy 2002-2005:

Putting People First adopted (Aug)

2000 (Dec) -The Criminal Property

Confiscation Act 2000 (CPCA) - permits the

State to apply to have all assets of a

convicted drug trafficker seized.

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Strategy – Preventing drug use – reducing

crime.’ This was the first drug strategy

adopted and recognized the strong links

between drugs and crime and need for

coordinated action (May).

SA Drug Summit held. Summit was

preceded by 24 community consultations

across the State with 917 people

participating. Summit identified new

directions for SA, particularly regarding

responses to amphetamines and processes

of reintegrating drug users. Gave rise to 51

recommendations (24 – 28 June).

SA Justice Portfolio Drug Indicators Project

initiated to identify potential performance

indicators to measure success in “protecting

the community from the consequences of

drug trafficking and abuse” (Jul).

CEN scheme amended through Controlled

Substances (Expiation of Simple Cannabis

Offences) Regulations 2002 (No. 170 of

2002) which maintained a limit on one plant

for personal use but banned cultivation of

hydroponic plants (Sep).

Initial response of SA Government was

devised by the Social Inclusion Board. It

was outlined in the “Tackling Drugs –

Government and Communities Working

Together” report and included 7 priority

areas e.g. building resilience in young

people and increased support for Aboriginal

people, 21 initiatives and provision of $12

million for first four years. Also established

an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by Hon

Led Stevens to implement initiatives.

Response was devised by the Social

Inclusion Board (Dec).

2001

COAG-IDDI agreement signed and SA Police

Drug Diversion Initiative (PDDI) introduced

(Jun)

Cannabis Expiation Notice Scheme amended

(Controlled Substances (Expiation of Simple

Cannabis Offences) Regulations 1987):

Number of cannabis plants attracting a fine

reduced from three to one (Nov)

Tasmanian Drug Strategic Plan (TDSP)

2001–2004 adopted.

Hobart City Council adopted its inaugural

AOD strategy: “Drug and Alcohol Strategy

2001”. This coincided with a period of

heightened concern over youth illicit drug

use.

Safe Needle Disposal Strategy launched

including a syringe help-line (Jan)

Cautious with Cannabis education session

developed at Moreland Hall for Cannabis

Cautioning referrals (and other referrals)

Victoria Government allocated $2 million to

develop a Koori drug and alcohol strategy

and established a Koori Drug Strategy

Advisory Committee (KDSAC) to undertake

the development (Sep).

Two reference groups were established into

Temazepan Injecting (with Victorian Drugs

Policy and Services Branch).

Kit on problem and dangers of Temazepan

Injecting mailed out to each Victorian doctor

Trial of needle and syringe vending machine

in Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital (Mar)

WA Community Drug Summit.