Drug Abuse in the Global Village
Drug Abuse in Asia
Social Measures relating to Drug Control in the Pacific Region

SOCIAL MEASURES

AUSTRALIA
Penal Sanctions related to social measures: In the province of Victoria, some courts have applied sanctions, which involved probation or good behaviour bonds with conditions that offenders received treatment for drug problems as an alternative to conviction. This is not mandatory but a sentencing option.  Each case is judged on its merits by the presiding magistrate or judge. The option is usually only used in matters involving drugs for personal use and not for trafficking matters.

Other social measures: There are needle and syringe exchange programmes in South Australia and Victoria. In 1991, a drug education programme (DARE) has been introduced into primary schools in the metropolitan area as a pilot study in South Australia.

FIJI
Penal Sanctions related to social measures: In 1990, courts applied measures of treatment, education, after-care, rehabilitation or social reintegration for a drug-related offence neither as an alternative and in addition to conviction or punishment. In 1989, such measures were applied in addition to conviction or punishment.

Other social measures: 1989 saw the introduction of an anti-drug week campaign in schools as well as the insertion of drug education issues in school curricula. The campaign was strongly supported by non-governmental organizations and volunteer groups. The Police drug unit also carries out a drug abuse education programme in schools, work places, churches, youth and parent groups as well as the general communities.

FRENCH POLYNESIA
No information reported.

NAURU
No information reported.

NEW CALEDONIA
No information reported.

NEW ZEALAND
No information reported.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA
No information reported.

SOLOMON ISLANDS
No information reported.

TONGA
No information reported.

WESTERN SAMOA
No information reported.