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There are many definitions out there of what a drug is, simply drugs are substances that change a person’s physical or mental state. Learn about what drugs are and what you need to know in this factsheet from Your Room.

It might surprise you to learn that alcohol, tobacco and illegal drug use are higher among people living in remote areas than those living in the big cities. Almost one third of young Australians live in rural and remote communities, so it is important to understand why they might be more at risk.

In Australia, drinking (and other drug use) cultures can change depending on where you live. This page from the Australian Drug Foundation looks at alcohol and other drug use in regional, rural and remote areas – what contributes to use and what are the impacts.

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People in rural or remote areas have to contend with long-term and wide-ranging sources of stress. Some people who are depressed turn to alcohol to feel better. This is known as ‘self-medication’. It is a common but unsafe and ineffective coping strategy for farmers and other people living in rural and remote areas.

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Farming is already a dangerous enough industry. This article from the National Centre for Farmer Health explores the topic of drugs and alcohol, and how this can make an impact on the safety on your farm.

This page from the National Centre for Farmer Health looks at whether farmers are at higher risk of alcohol related problems, and what farmers need to keep in mind to keep themselves healthy and safe.

The majority of people never use drugs, but it is important for people to know how to assist someone if a drug-related emergency happens. Drugs are unpredictable; they can affect people in different ways. This article from Positive Choices explains what to do in case someone you know has taken a drug and needs help.

Single-use vapes will be banned from being imported into Australia from the beginning of 2024 as part of the federal government's vaping crackdown. This article explores the changes being made.

This article looks at the new vaping legislation and how this may impact people who vape.

Stigma is often associated with mental health and drug use disorders, and can have lasting impacts including harassment, bullying and preventing young people from seeking help. Learn more in this Webinar from Positive Choices: Understanding stigma - creating a safe supportive environment for Australian young people

Research published in Drug and Alcohol Review in December 2021 suggests a transformation in the public’s views on drugs over the past decade. But while Rebecca’s views apply to all illegal drugs, the general public draws a sharp distinction between different drugs. Learn about Rebecca's story and Australia's changing opinions in this article from the Sydney Morning Herald.

Many people in Australia use drugs - alcohol, coffee, cannabis, and many more. But why do people choose to use drugs, and is there any difference in the way thhey are used? Find the answers to these questions and more in this factshet from the Australian Drug Foundation.