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Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative Project

Project Outline

The Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative is part of the national approach to early intervention and prevention of illicit drug use. A national framework to tackle illicit drug use has been agreed by all Australian States and Territories. Under this approach, police and courts will be given the formal power to divert drug users to education, assessment or treatment.

A national approach means that people who are apprehended for illicit drug use can expect to be given the opportunity to identify their problem early and receive appropriate treatment, wherever they live.

The primary objective of the Drug Diversion program is to increase incentives for drug users to identify and treat their illicit drug use early. It also aims to decrease the social impact of illicit drug use within the community and to prevent a new generation of drug users committing drug-related crime from emerging in Australia, therefore leading to safer environments for all Australians.

The Diversion initiative is part of an integrated approach to tackling illicit drug use based on prevention, treatment and reducing the supply of illicit drugs in Australia. It provides an opportunity for drug users early in their relationship with the criminal justice system to get the education, treatment and support they need for addressing their drug problem, and at the same time, avoid incurring a criminal record.

If an offender chooses not to be 'diverted' into education or treatment, or fails to attend or participate in the required education or treatment sessions, they will be returned to the Criminal Justice system.

The Diversion initiative will have a positive impact on individual drug users, as well as a wider community benefit. Offenders, who attend for assessment and go on to participate in education or treatment, will have no criminal conviction for the offence recorded against them. For those who are committed to ceasing their drug use, support will be available through ongoing treatment, planned follow-up and referral to appropriate community services.
By assisting individuals to take personal responsibility and regain control over their lives, the Diversion initiative will lead to safer environments for all Australians and reduce the considerable personal and social costs of drug use on our communities. It also means that fewer people will be appearing before the courts for use or possession of small quantities of illicit drugs, freeing up police and court resources.

Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative - Project to continue at DASSA

For further information contact: Linda Duncan

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