Small amounts of illicit narcotics such as ice, heroin, cocaine, and speed will be decriminalized in the ACT, making it the first state in Australia to do so.
Under the proposed laws, residents of Canberra who are detected with tiny amounts of substances considered to be ‘personal possession’ would be punished rather than facing criminal penalties.
The ACT is already Australia’s first jurisdiction to decriminalize marijuana usage, and the federal government supports the planned legislation for other narcotics.
The planned modifications, according to ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith, are a “progressive health-focused reform,” but they will be amended, such as the list of pharmaceuticals affected.
‘We know from study and evidence all around the world that criminalizing drug users does not reduce drug use, and that addressing drug addiction as a health issue improves results for everyone in the community,’ said Ms Stephen-Smith.
She emphasized that the government views illicit drugs as destructive and will try to eliminate their supply.
‘This law is part of a larger set of policies established in collaboration with experts, individuals who have lived experience, and our alcohol and other drug sector to help those who are most in need get the help and resources they need when they need them,’ Ms Stephen-Smith said.