For a small amount of drugs for personal use, police diversion can mean no charge and no criminal record. Check first whether you are eligible and what happens if you decline.
Free, confidential first consultation. No obligation.
Police drug diversion is in the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 (Qld). It applies to minor drugs offences, such as possessing not more than a set quantity of a drug, or a utensil, for personal use.
A drug diversion warning, if you have not been offered a warning or a program before.
The chance to take part in a drug diversion assessment program.
The chance to take part in a subsequent drug diversion assessment program.
For adults, police must make the offer if you are eligible. For children, police may make it. The offer can be made at any time before you appear in court on the charge, and police must explain what it means.
The law is changing. Parliament has passed the Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time and Taking a Strong Stance on Drugs and Anti-Social Behaviour Amendment Act 2026. It replaces the current scheme with new diversion arrangements, including a separate scheme for small amounts of cannabis. It starts on a date still to be set by the Queensland Government. Until then the current rules apply.
Pick the one closest to your situation and a chat opens with it already said. No forms, and you can call instead at any time.
If you decline the offer, the matter can go to court as a charge.
Not completing an assessment program you agreed to is an offence of its own.
Giving drugs to a friend can be charged as supply, which is not covered by diversion.
Joseph Rahim, Principal. LLB (First Class Honours), Grad Dip LP. Member, Queensland Law Society. About Joseph
When you call Coral Coast Law, you speak with Joseph Rahim, and he handles your matter himself.
No. If you complete police diversion, you are not prosecuted for that offence.
Under the current law, a warning first, then up to two assessment programs. The rules are changing on a date still to be set.
Yes, but the matter can then go to court.
Yes. Minor possession of cannabis is a minor drugs offence under the current scheme.
Yes. It is free, confidential and comes with no obligation.
Didn’t see your question? Ask it in chat.
The sooner you get advice, the more can be done. Tell Joseph what has happened and find out exactly where you stand, with no cost and no pressure.
0447 028 080This page is general information about Queensland law. It is not legal advice. Every matter turns on its own facts, so speak with us about yours.
