Harm Reduction Australia’s Statement on the National Ice Action Strategy

Harm Reduction Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s first step to shift from a law enforcement focus to a health-based approach to addressing drug issues in Australia.

There is little doubt that the Government recognises the evidence and value of treating drug use as a health issue.

However, if Australia’s response is to evolve, be agile and truly reflect the current evidence, then there is a pressing need for all governments to also embrace harm reduction as a critical component of their health based response to drug use.

While demonstrating real progress, the recent announcement falls short of this mark.