Sweeping new legislation is reportedly being considered by the state government, in a bid to keep drug users out of the court system.

Under the changes, it’s reported users will be given three chances if they are caught with a small amount of heroin, cocaine or ice.

On the fourth occasion police will issue them with a notice to appear in court.

The changes were developed in consultation with police and drug and rehabilitation groups.

CEO of the Hader Clinic, Melinda Symon, says in her view, drug addiction isn’t cured by jail time.

“When we look at what addiction is, it’s really a chronic health condition, where a person cannot stop using a substance or an alcohol.”

She said the majority of the enquiries they receive are from families with a loved one in “active addiction”.

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