While it is still an offence to possess and use illicit drugs, the State Government hopes the changes will encourage people who get a Criminal Infringement Notice, to complete a tailored drug and alcohol intervention and, if they do complete it, then their fine will be treated as though it was paid. If the health intervention is not completed, the penalty will be enforced by Revenue NSW.
Police will retain their discretion in all cases to charge a person and proceed to court – this adds another tool to their kit.
Minister for Police, Yasmin Catley, said the safety of the community was the Government’s top priority and the scheme provided better outcomes for low-level drug offending without compromising safety.
“This is another tool in their kit and police retain their discretion to deal with the matter as appropriate, including proceeding to court,” she said.
The Government anticipates that this scheme will divert thousands of people away from our court system each year, many of whom are low-level drug offenders who attend court receive a fine yet do not get any incentive to take up health advice.
Fines, not court for having drugs
POLICE will be given the ability to issue up to two on-the-spot Criminal Infringement Notices (CINs), which are $400 fines, to adults for personal drug use and small quantity drug possession offences from next year.
