Policing and cannabis use in Australia

Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in Australia. The community’s views about cannabis use are divided. There is a range of approaches to drug law enforcement regarding minor possession and personal use of cannabis. Surveys of police detainees and those incarcerated show that cannabis use is more prevalent among these groups than the general community.

Police strategies that involve proactive policing and include effective partnerships with other stakeholders in their local community may be the most effective strategies in regards to drug law enforcement. Police can play a key role within their local communities to lessen the harms from cannabis use.