A report from a significant summit on reducing drug-related harms has suggested that the New South Wales government should stop using drug detection dogs and mandatory strip-searches at music festivals. The summit, which brought together experts to advise on drug strategies, was held in Sydney, Griffith, and Lismore over four days. Despite the “substantial support” for decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of drugs, this was not recommended by the report’s authors, Carmel Tebbutt and John Brogden. They acknowledged the strong support from attendees and individuals who submitted proposals to replace criminal penalties with a reinforced diversion system, reflecting a health-focused rather than a criminal approach to drug use. However, the report stated that Premier had made it clear prior to the summit that the government does not have a mandate for decriminalization and did not place it on the agenda. Health Minister Ryan Park faced criticism during the summit for ruling out following the ACT’s example of decriminalizing small quantities of drugs before the recommendations were finalized. The report also suggested that the government should review the use of drug detection dogs and strip-searches for suspected drug possession at music festivals, extending this ban to all such events. Sam Lee from Redfern Legal Centre welcomed this recommendation, arguing that such measures increase risky drug behaviors like preloading. Additionally, the report advised legislating a “medical defense” for individuals medically prescribed cannabis who are caught driving under the influence, with assessments done by police or in court. The report also recommended the development of a 10-year strategy to reduce drug-related harms within the next year, a significant increase in funding, and extending funding contracts for services to five years. It includes recommendations focusing on Aboriginal social and emotional well-being and cultural safety. Park emphasized the diverse nature of the community input and the government’s commitment to carefully consider the findings and respond accordingly.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/apr/03/nsw-drugs-summit-sniffer-dogs-strip-searches-music-festivals-advice