Drugs and the law
In Australia, it is against the law to possess, use, make, import or sell ecstasy, methamphetamine and related drugs. The only exception is if a doctor prescribes medication for a patient which may contain amphetamines. Possessing drug-using equipment is also against the law.
If drugs are ever found in a person’s locker, home, etc., they will be charged, unless they can prove that the drugs do not belong to them. The responsibility lies with the person to actually prove this.
The penalties for drug offences vary depending on the type of drug and quantities involved, as well as across states and territories in Australia. The general rule is that the greater the quantity of the drug seized, the greater the penalty. Typically, there are three types of penalties for illicit drug use that may be issued to a person, depending on the severity of the offence:
- caution/diversion programs
- civil penalties
- criminal penalties.
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