Volume
48, No. 3, March 9, 2006
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Drugs
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AIR
Force has sent a clear message to its people — using, or
being involved with, prohibited substances will not be tolerated.
Proof of the organisation’s commitment to the ADF zero tolerance
policy is tangible, with five people discharged from the Air Force
as a result of the Prohibited Substance Testing Program (PSTP)
since its implementation in June last year.
According to program coordinator (PSTPC), SQNLDR Simon Braun,
in the six months following the introduction of prohibited substance
testing, Air Force conducted 426 tests.
“Six confirmed positive test results were returned, with
prohibited substances identified as cannabis, methyl amphetamines
(ecstasy) and LSD,” he said.
“Four of these six members have been discharged and the remaining
two are subject to ongoing administrative action. An additional
member who refused to undertake a prohibited substance test has
been discharged.”
The PSTP acts as a deterrent against the use of prohibited substances
and supports the ADF zero tolerance policy. The Act allows the
ADF to test members for prohibited substances anywhere and at
anytime.
Within the Air Force group, Director-General Personnel —
Air Force, via the PSTPC, will select units for testing. The PSTPC
will advise commanding officers of the selection methodology for
testing members.
The PSTP tests for narcotic substances as defined in the Customs
Act 1901: marijuana, cocaine, opiates, LSD and methyl amphetamines
(MDMA-ecstasy); and any use of steroids, misuse of prescribed
and over-the-counter drugs, or any substance specified by CDF.
Defence Instructions General Personnel (DI(G) PERS) 15-5 allows
administrative action, including discharge, to be taken against
members who return a confirmed positive test result, or who refuse
to be tested. Members who return a positive result are required
to show cause as to why their service should not be terminated.
