Alcohol and the Police Response

In addition to the daily role and duties performed by all police officers, SAPOL has specialist areas and programs which work together to provide a focus on alcohol related crime, public disorder and harms within the community.

Drug and Alcohol Policy Section

This section is responsible for identification, evaluation and analysis of strategic issues and developments in policing at local, national and international levels in relation to alcohol and other drugs. Drug and Alcohol Policy Section also liaises extensively with key agencies to facilitate interaction and cooperation between Federal and State Government and community groups to address alcohol and other drug related issues.

Licensing Enforcement Branch

This branch provides a state-wide resource to SAPOL for the policing of a range of regulated industries, including Liquor Licensing, Gaming Machines, Security Agents, Fortification of Premises, Prostitution, Unlawful Gambling, Casino, Classification of Publications and Hydroponics.

Drug Action Teams

These are locally based committees with representatives from a range of community agencies such as local government, education providers, health and welfare services, community correction officers, youth sector workers, illicit drug user groups and community housing organisations in collaboration with SAPOL. Drug Action Teams focus on reducing the impact of substance use within local communities, and are formed on either a geographic basis or for a specific interest or target group (for example, youth). The teams bring together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to share information, build partnerships, and develop collaborative responses to local problems associated with harmful alcohol and other drug use.

Early Intervention Pilot Program (EIPP)

With funding from the Federal Government National Binge Drinking Strategy, the South Australian Early Intervention Pilot Program (EIPP) is being established by SAPOL and SA Health in consultation with nominated non-government agencies in two Local Service Areas. This program will provide early intervention opportunities for young people aged 10-17 years who are identified by police as misusing alcohol or binge drinking. Eligible youths will be directed to alcohol-based health assessment and treatment where appropriate.

Alcohol, drugs and driving

Drivers can be stopped at random and tested for blood alcohol concentration (BAC). It is an offence to drive or attempt to drive a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.05 or above.

SAPOL also conducts random roadside oral saliva tests to detect the presence of three illicit drugs:

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound in cannabis)
• Methylamphetamine (also known as speed, ice or crystal meth)
• MDMA (3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine also known as ecstasy).

For further information:

Drink Driving
Drug Driving