ACT Set To Decriminalise Small Amounts Of Illicit Drugs

In an Australian first, the Territory has decriminalised illicit drugs in small quantities.

The ACT parliament on Thursday passed a new law, where people who are caught with small amounts of illicit drugs will not be criminally prosecuted.

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Applied to nine different types of drugs, including amphetamine, heroin, cocaine and speed - liberal steps now mean that a person found with personal use amounts will instead be cautioned, fined or referred to a drug diversion program.

Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said harm-minimisation rather than punishment was the way forward.

“The ACT has led the nation with a progressive approach to reducing the harm caused by illicit drugs with a focus on diversion, access to treatment and rehabilitation and reducing the stigma attached to drug use.

“This sensible reform is based on the expert advice that a health-focused, harm reduction approach delivers the best outcome for people using drugs,” she said.

The radical legislation will come into effect from October 2023, following a 12-month transition period.

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