Have Your Say On The Drug Overdose (Assistance Protection) Legislation Bill

The Health Committee is calling for submissions on the Drug Overdose (Assistance Protection) Legislation Bill.

The deadline for written submissions is 11.59 pm on Tuesday, 16 June 2026.

This Bill aims to encourage people to seek urgent medical assistance in the event of a drug overdose or adverse drug reaction by providing protection from prosecution for specified low-level drug offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975. While those who seek help are not regularly criminally charged, there is a fear of criminal prosecution. These protections would apply to the person seeking help, the person experiencing the overdose or adverse reaction, and others incidentally present at the scene. Those who are on parole with conditions on drug use will also be protected, as they have a heightened overdose risk after a period of sobriety while incarcerated.

The Bill is intended to reduce barriers to calling for life-saving assistance and to help prevent avoidable overdose deaths.

Make a submission on the bill by 11:59 pm on 16 June 2026.

For more details about the bill:

• Read the full content of the bill
• Read what's been said in Parliament about this bill

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