Drug driving continues to be a major public health and safety concern. For years, the response has largely centred on law enforcement, particularly roadside drug testing. But how do people who engage in drug driving perceive these countermeasures?

A new qualitative study commissioned by the Transport Accident Commission and conducted by Turning Point provides valuable insights into the perceptions, behaviours, and experiences of Victorians who drug drive.

Findings from the study offer valuable insights to improve responses and supports for drivers who are detected under the influence of drugs.

Download a summary of the key findings, including:

• how drivers define drug driving (impairment vs. presence of substances)
• why drug driving occurs
• confusion and concern around current laws and enforcement practices, and
• experiences with police, behaviour change programs and support services.

The report also includes a comprehensive list of recommendations:

• Ensure drug driving media and communications:
  • are compassionate and avoid scare tactics
  • reduce stigma, and
  • include lived‑experience stories.
• Develop harm minimisation resources that provide clear, accessible information about laws, crash risks, and safer transport planning.
• Expand supports – including confidential spaces for people to discuss concerns – improve referral systems, and provide practical help such as travel vouchers.
• Provide professional training that equips police, lawyers and program facilitators with stigma‑reduction skills and accurate drug driving knowledge.
• Expand community consultation that involves people with lived experience in shaping policy, and explore models similar to drink driving thresholds.

By better understanding the complex perceptions, experiences and practices of people who drive and consume drugs, this study offers a valuable opportunity to improve Victoria’s harm‑minimisation approaches.

Access the key findings of the research as well as a comprehensive list of recommendations here: Experiences of drug driving: a qualitative study

Project Team: Dr Tristan Duncan, Emily Brennan, Ramez Bathish, Prof Victoria Manning, Dr Michael Savic

Funder: Transport Accident Commission

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