Research literature most commonly describes polydrug use in one of two ways; as either concurrent or simultaneous polydrug use. Concurrent polydrug use is where a minimum of two substances are used within the same time-period (for example, within a four-week period). Simultaneous polydrug use is a…

There are several forms of drug diversion interventions that operate across a number of different points in the Australian criminal justice system. These interventions fall into three major clusters: police diversion, court-level diversion and drug court diversion initiatives. As outlined in a…

Diversion involves the redirection of offenders away from conventional criminal justice processes, with the aim of minimising levels of contact with the formal criminal justice system. Drug diversion programs have become increasingly popular in recent years for many reasons. These include the…

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug nationally and internationally, and is generally considered easily available (ACC 2007). In the most recent National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS), it was reported that one in three Australians aged 14 years and over had used cannabis at least…

Cannabis is illegal in all states and territories across Australia. Each jurisdiction has legislation relating to the cultivation, supply, possession and use of cannabis. In some jurisdictions, minor cannabis possession offences may be dealt with using civil penalties in particular circumstances. In addition, diversionary schemes are in place in most jurisdictions…