ACT o decriminalise small amounts of illicit drugs such as ice, heroin, cocaine

The ACT is set to decriminalise small amounts of illicit drugs, such as ice, heroin, cocaine and speed – the first in Australia to do so.

Those living in Canberra who are found with small amounts of substances considered to be ‘personal possession’ would be fined $100 instead of being hit with criminal charges under the proposed laws. 

Those busted would also be sent to complete a health program. 

People caught with larger amounts would still be prosecuted. 

The ACT is already the first state to decriminalise the use of marijuana in Australia, and the government endorses the proposed law surrounding other substances.

ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said the proposed changes were a ‘progressive health-focused reform’ but amendments would be made such as to the list of drugs affected.

‘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,’ Ms Stephen-Smith said. 

The ACT is set to decriminalise small amounts of illicit drugs, such as ice, heroin, cocaine and speed – the first in Australia to do so

She stressed the government viewed illicit drugs as harmful and would continue to work to put an end to their supply.

‘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,’ Ms Stephen-Smith said.

In a survey conducted in Canberra last year, only one in ten people thought those caught with drugs should be jailed. 

Most illicit substances have a limit of two grams to be considered personal use in the territory, such as cocaine and heroin. Personal use for MDMA is considered to be 0.5g. 

Labor MP Michael Pettersson introduced the bill to the ACT Legislative Assembly. 

More to come