Cocaine Traffickers Target Australia

Australia has been targeted by international criminal groups for cocaine smuggling.

These international criminal groups see a high growth potential in Australia because of the increasing demand for cocaine.

This increase in cocaine use in Australia has led to large seizures of cocaine at the border.

Cocaine seizures at the Australian border increased by two thirds in number and by 80 per cent in weight in 2010/11.

This region is increasingly becoming a smuggling route for cocaine.

(Source: International Narcotics Control Board report released 5 March 2013)

DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL COMMENTS-

Cocaine demand in Australia is driving the increasing smuggling of cocaine.

Cocaine users are highly likely to be addicted.

Cocaine users are liable to death, heart attacks, stroke, depression, paranoia and hallucinations.

It is in Australia’s best interests that the demand for cocaine is reduced and not seen as a potential market for criminals.

By reducing cocaine demand we will cut off the money to the international smugglers, help users to reduce health risks, take the pressure off border protection and improve our image.

It’s time Australia expanded drug rehabilitation and implemented diversion of users into mandated rehabilitation.