NCJ Number
141216
Date Published
1992
Length
277 pages
Annotation
Relevant material on Australian domestic drug policy is compiled and summarized in this volume. The authors take the general position that international drug trafficking affecting Australia would best be managed by reducing the demand for overseas supplies of illicit drugs. Other recommendations for policy changes are offered throughout the book.
Abstract
The first few chapters discuss the classification and nature of illicit drugs, the concept of drug dependence, and typical use of cannabis and other common drugs. Two subsequent chapters cover drug treatment options and international conventions regarding drug trafficking and enforcement. Several chapters discuss Australian domestic drug policy and its implementation, focusing on the making of legislative policy, police effectiveness, and the costs and effects of drug prohibitions. The authors explore the role of the media in drug law enforcement and summarize some popular misconceptions about drugs and drug use. The experiences of drug law enforcement agencies in England, the Netherlands, and Switzerland are examined. The final section covers various aspects of proposed law reform and public education regarding illicit drug use. The changes the authors recommend would be characterized by the establishment of a controlled drug market, major reduction of the black market, controlled availability of drugs, full information and advice provided to drug users, and free and ready access by drug users to doctors, treatment clinics, and welfare services. 3 appendixes