Proposal to extend drug testing regime

PROPOSED legislation to extend the ADF’s ability to conduct drug testing has been introduced into Parliament.

The Defence Amendment Bill 2005 proposes an extensive regime for the drug testing of ADF members in a range of circumstances.

It would allow the ADF to widen its scope of drugs for testing, including steroids and socalled “party drugs”.

The legislation would also allow for future developments in drug testing technology and clarify the power to terminate the employment of the ADF member after the return of a confirmed positive test result.

It would also clarify the power to take other administrative action.

Current legislation limits testing to narcotic drugs as defined in the Customs Act.

It provides for urine testing of ADF members who undertake combat and combat-related duties.

The proposed new legislation would allow all members of the ADF, members of the Reserve on duty and Defence civilians (contractors accompanying the ADF on operations who agree to be subject to Defence Force discipline) to be tested at any time.

The legislation is expected to complete its passage through Parliament during the current sittings.