Labor's 10-Point Plan To Combat Drugs
President of the AMA, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said today that Labor's strategy to tackle Australia's drug problem appeared, on the surface, to strike a fine balance between the important focus on preventing deaths and fighting drug-related crime.
Dr Phelps said the plan contains many admirable programs and good ideas but there is one notable absence - funding.
"The AMA believes strongly that keeping people alive is the number one priority in any illicit drug strategy," Dr Phelps said.
"It is important that we save the lives and look after the health of the victims of drug abuse, and that support is given to their families and their communities.
"The AMA welcomes any advances in this area.
"With a focus on primary health care, outreach services and improvements in treatment and rehabilitation, it is clear that Labor has consulted widely - and listened - in the development of this plan.
"There are commendable initiatives in the areas of addressing indigenous substance abuse and trialing medically supervised drug injecting rooms.
"The idea of community safety zones is worth exploring.
"The AMA is pleased that Labor will explore a National Cannabis Strategy that includes an examination of a legal framework for the medical use of cannabis.
"While we support the pursuit of a national approach to illicit drugs policy, we would like to see an integrated approach that covers alcohol, tobacco and other substances.
"There is a lot to like in Labor's plan, but we look forward to seeing further detail, including funding," Dr Phelps said.