A future where a low-level drug offence is treated as a health issue

Researchers at Turning Point and Monash University are currently investigating opportunities to improve Victoria’s responses to minor drug offences.

For the current phase of the project, they are looking to speak to Victorians who have been picked up for a minor drug offence in the past 5 years to understand how the experience affected them and hear ideas about how to improve the process.

“We are very grateful to the people who have already spoken to us and shared their experiences and ideas,” says Dr Annette Peart, Senior Research Fellow at Monash University and lead researcher of the project.

Initially, the team found that some people were wary when asked to be interviewed. However, after speaking to the researchers, participants were put at ease and were keen to talk.

To ensure that they speak to anyone with relevant experiences and hear their ideas, Dr Peart is inviting AOD workers to let their clients know about the opportunity.

“Participation involves a confidential 30- to 45-minute telephone interview,” Dr Peart explains. “All participants will receive a $60 retail voucher for their time.”

AOD services and workers who would like to share the opportunity with their clients can share this link to the expression of interest form:

https://monash.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5BwU7EEkJZZDLee

For more information, contact the researchers: [email protected]