It’s official –

From today, The A.C.T.’s laws have changed to decriminalise certain drugs and punishment.

People found with amounts, considered to be “Personal Possession” – smaller than trafficable quantities – will be subject to fines, rather than criminal charges.

Official documentation can be found on the A.C.T. Health Website:

Drugs of Dependence (Personal Use) Amendment Act 2022

From 28 October 2023, maximum penalties for personal possession of small amounts of the most commonly used illicit drugs will be reduced in the ACT.

This follows the passage of the Drugs of Dependence (Personal Use) Amendment Act 2022 in the ACT Legislative Assembly in October 2022.

The legislation will be implemented to ensure that it achieves the aim of harm minimisation for our community.

These changes have been made with extensive consultation and input from policy experts, local and national drug and alcohol sector advocates, service providers, ACT Government Directorates and ACT Policing.

The ACT Government invests more than $26 million each year in specialist alcohol, tobacco and other drug treatment and support services.

Purpose of the reform

The reform is intended to ensure people who use drugs are offered the health services and support they may need while providing a pathway away from the criminal justice system.

Support services

If you need support in relation to your drug use, call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

You can also access information on treatment and support services on the ATODA directory or from Canberra Health Services.

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