AFPA backs Canberra Liberals’ call to repeal ACT drug decriminalisation laws

Canberra | 21 October 2025

The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) has voiced strong support for a motion by ACT Shadow Attorney-General Jeremy Hanson MLA, urging the repeal of the ACT Government’s hard drug decriminalisation laws.

AFPA President Alex Caruana said data since the laws were introduced in October 2023 shows worrying increases in drug use, overdoses, and related harm across the Territory.

“Frontline officers are seeing first hand the devastating effects of these laws. Drug use in public places has become more visible, overdoses are increasing, and police resources are being stretched as drug-driving offences and community disorder rise,” Mr Caruana said.

He added that the Government’s claims that decriminalisation would reduce harm and free up police resources had not been realised.

“The promise that decriminalisation would reduce harm, free up police resources, and disrupt drug dealers has simply not materialised. The data shows the opposite. Drug use is up, supply offences are down, and Canberrans are less safe as a result,” he said.

According to AFPA, data from national monitoring programs and ACT-specific reports reveal:

• Cocaine use has risen by about 70% since decriminalisation;

• Heroin use is up 30% and methamphetamine use up 40%;

• There have been 16 suspected overdose deaths so far in 2025;

• Over 1,100 drug-related emergency presentations were recorded in 2024–25; and

• Drug-driving charges have increased by more than 20% since 2022–23.

Mr Caruana said the AFPA supports evidence-based approaches that genuinely reduce harm, but warned that the ACT’s current model has failed to do so.

“We support rehabilitation and treatment, but you cannot reduce harm by normalising or excusing the possession and use of highly addictive and dangerous substances. The community is paying the price for a failed experiment,” he said.

The AFPA urged the ACT Government to reconsider its policy and listen to police and community concerns.

“We urge the ACT Government to listen to the evidence, listen to police, and repeal these laws before more Canberrans are hurt,” Mr Caruana said.

The Association commended Mr Hanson for bringing forward the motion and expressed willingness to work with all sides of politics on a “more balanced, effective, and compassionate” approach to drug harm that prioritises community safety, treatment, and enforcement equally.

Source: Australian Federal Police Association (Media Release, 21 October 2025)

AFPA supports Canberra Liberals motion in drug decriminalisation laws