ABSTRACT
In a matter of a few years, the issue of legalization of heroin has changed in Australia from a cause promoted by fringe groups to a campaign espoused by some of the most eminent and distinguished members of our community. The issue has found surprising supporters in recent years. In 1984, the then New South Wales Opposition leader, Mr N. Greiner, said:
If we can bring these drug-addicted people away from having to commit crime to get the money to pay their pusher – that would mean a drop in crime. If we can wean them off the drugs in a controlled system then we are winning. If the demand is not there, the drug bosses have no-one to supply.
(Sydney Sun-Herald) These views have subsequently been echoed in Australia by, among others, Mr John Gorton, a former Prime Minister, and Mr Don Dunstan, a former State Premier.