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Drugs – frequently asked questions

If I call an ambulance because someone has overdosed will the police be called?
Can the police check my body for track (needle) marks?
Can I be arrested for having syringes?
Can I get medication while I’m in custody?

If I call an ambulance because someone has overdosed will the police be called?

No, ambulance officers will not call the police unless someone dies or someone feels threatened.

Some signs of an overdose are:

  • immediate collapse or extreme drowsiness
  • loss of colour – becoming pale and turning blue
  • slowed breathing
  • irregular heartbeat
  • drop in body temperature – feeling cold and clammy.

If you think someone has overdosed call an ambulance immediately. Phone '000' and say someone has collapsed and needs urgent medical attention.

Can the police check my body for track (needle) marks?

The police often ask people they suspect are users to roll up their sleeves to check for track marks. It is not a criminal offence to have holes in your arms. You can refuse this request but it may be easier to say 'yes' and make a complaint later.

Can I be arrested for having syringes?

It is legal in Victoria to possess new and used syringes. However, used syringes or traces of drugs can be used as evidence of using a 'drug of dependence' if you admit to using. Never admit to using.

Never carry any drugs on you when carrying syringes or visiting a needle and syringe program (NSP). Even if drugs are not found on you, the police can still charge you with using a drug of dependence if you admit to having used, even if it was in the past.

Most police will not test syringes for drug traces. The safest option is to always flush blood out of syringes after using, even if you will not re-use them. This protects you and reduces the risk of infecting anyone else if they get a needle stick injury.

To dispose of syringes safely, return them to an NSP, or use one of the many public disposal units. There are penalties for unsafe disposal of used syringes – technically it is littering.

Can I get medication while I’m in custody?

You have the right to see a doctor while you are under arrest or in custody, if you need to. Ask the police to organise this.

You are also entitled to any medicine prescribed for you. You can make these requests on tape before an interview starts, particularly if you need medicine or medical attention to get through the interview.