Time for Change Survey and Report

9 Service Accessibility and Urgent Funding 11. We recommend that all federal and state/territory governments ensure a balanced and equitable investment in drug policy spending across the 3-pillars, and commit to a reinvestment of funds to appropriately resource demand reduction and harm reduction, cons istent with the ostensible goals of Australia’s National Drug Strategy. 12. We recommend that all federal and state/territory governments increase investment in peer-based drug user organisations to adequately resource their activities and potential at state/territory and national levels. 13. We recommend that federal and state/territory governments invest in a diversified AOD Family Support Services sector providing families, friends, and supporters with increased access to specialised, tailored, peer-based services that are responsive to their needs. 14. We recommend all Australian governments prioritise alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment funding as a core public health strategy. This includes sustained investment in diverse, evidence-based treatment services that are accessible, affordable, and responsive to community needs. 15. We recommend that governments urgently expand Opioid Treatment Programs (OTP) for under-served communities and areas, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and regional and rural communities including increased funding for accessible, culturally safe, and community-led treatment options, along with incentives to recruit and retain healthcare providers. 16. We recommend that all Australian governments increase investment in and support for research on the therapeutic potentials and purposes of currently illicit drugs. Overdose Prevention 17. We recommend that the Australian Federal Government leads the development of a National Overdose Prevention Sub-Strategy as a matter of urgency. 18. We recommend that the Federal Government (a) work with state/territory governments to support the development, implementation, and data collection and sharing for a national, public early warning system, (b) ensure the system is focussed on public health and harm reduction, and (c) ensure the system is co-led by health, customs, police, and community, including people who use drugs and peer organisations. 19. We recommend that governments significantly increase the current $20 million investment in the Take Home Naloxone (THN) Program to ensure that all pharmacies provide naloxone free of charge and that police officers and other first responders across all jurisdictions carry and are trained in the use of naloxone. Drug Testing and Cannabis Reform 20. We recommend that governments enhance public education on Australia’s medicinal cannabis system through clear, accessible, and evidence-based information. This should include public awareness campaigns, healthcare provider training, and simplified patient access guidelines. 21. We recommend that current roadside drug testing legislation be brought in line with other prescription medicines by (a) granting exemptions for medicinal cannabis when drivers do not show signs of impairment, and (b) establishing a legal defence for