June 17, 2017
Queensland police will expand their Roadside Drug Testing program next financial year following a boost in funds announced in this week’s State Budget.
Police Minister Mark Ryan said the $4.1 million investment over four years would help make roads safer by removing drug drivers.
“There are a disturbing number of drug drivers on our roads in Queensland with almost 11,000 motorists returning a positive drug test last financial year,” Mr Ryan said.
“That is far too many drivers and riders creating a dangerous environment for all other road users across our state.”
Queensland police have been gradually increasing their capabilities to target drug drivers.
51,389 Roadside Drug Tests were conducted in 2016/2017, compared with 49,445 in 2015/2016 and 20,289 in 2014/2015.
“Police are on track to conduct more than 52,000 roadside drug tests this financial year, more than double the amount carried out three years ago,” Mr Ryan said.
“This funding announcement will enable officers to undertake up to 12,500 extra roadside drug tests each year.
“It means police will have the resources to effectively conduct more than triple the amount of roadside drug tests than what officers were able to carry out three years ago.”
Assistant Commissioner Mike Keating said police take a zero tolerance approach to drug drivers.
“Much like drink driving, the community does not accept the lives of innocent people being put at risk by someone driving while affected by drugs,” Mr Keating said.
“We now have more than 500 officers trained in roadside drug testing and we will continue to conduct targeted operations on roads right across Queensland.”
