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ACT government agrees to decriminalise small amounts of illicit drugs, such as ice, heroin and cocaine

The ACT is set to become the first Australian jurisdiction to decriminalise small amounts of commonly used illicit drugs, such as ice, heroin, cocaine and speed.

Under a proposed law that the government has now endorsed, police would continue to target dealers and try to disrupt Canberra’s drug trade.

However, people found with amounts considered to be “personal possession” — smaller than trafficable quantities — would be subject to fines rather than criminal charges.

The decision follows the recommendations of a Legislative Assembly inquiry into the proposal, which was tabled by Labor backbencher Michael Pettersson last year.

The government indicated today it would support the bill but propose several amendments to it, including adjusting the list of drugs to be affected.

The ACT was also the first — and remains the only — state or territory to legalise the personal use of cannabis, another of Mr Pettersson’s bills.

Drug use a ‘health issue’, not a criminal matter

A woman in a check shirt and blazer stands at a podium, delivering a speech.
Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith says the new approach will take pressure off the justice system.(ABC News: Toby Hunt)

Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said the ACT was “leading the way” by demonstrating that decriminalisation was a more effective response to improve people’s health and well-being.

She said the government continued to view illicit drugs as harmful and would work to stamp out their supply.

However, the government “recognises that the harm associated with drugs use is a health issue” and that treating drug use as a criminal matter did not help addicts.

“We know from research and evidence around the world that criminalising drug users does not reduce drug use, and that treating drug addiction as a health issue improves outcomes for everyone in the community.

“This legislation is part of our broader suite of policies developed in partnership with experts, people with lived experience and our alcohol and other drug sector to support those most in need to get the help and services they need when they need them.”

Posted , updated 

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