2027 Unit information is now available. View 2027 unit information
Online
Introduction
This unit examines contemporary social issues relating to drug abuse and its policing, which is one of the most complex and controversial topics confronting today's society. The unit focuses on the demand for, and the supply of illicit and licit drugs. Policing policies and legal implications relating to supply reduction and harm reduction through prohibition, harm-minimization and drug diversionary programs are critically analysed and assessed. The ethical risks associated with drug law enforcement are also explored. Particular focus is placed on youth drug abuse and its impact on street-level crime and road safety, and the critical importance of early intervention and discretionary options, at the street-level, for juvenile offenders.
Summary
| Unit name | Drug Law Enforcement and Harm Minimisation |
| Unit code | PEM204 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Health School of Paramedicine and Public Safety |
| Discipline | Policing and Emergency Management |
| Coordinator | Doctor James Dwyer |
| Available as an elective? | No |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Intermediate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
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| Online | Police Study Period 1 |
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| Online | Police Study Period 2 |
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| Online | Police Study Period 3 |
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| Online | Trimester |
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- Key:
On-campus- Off-Campus
International students- Domestic students
Note
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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trimester | 1/11/2026 | 23/11/2026 | 23/12/2026 | 13/2/2027 |
| Police Study Period 1 | 1/1/2026 | 18/5/2026 | 19/5/2026 | 26/9/2026 |
| Police Study Period 2 | 1/3/2026 | 3/8/2026 | 4/8/2026 | 26/12/2026 |
| Police Study Period 3 | 31/5/2026 | 30/11/2026 | 1/12/2026 | 29/5/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the principles of supply reduction and harm reduction through prohibition, harm-minimization, drug diversion, and public health in drug enforcement.
- Identify different types of drugs and substances commonly misused in society and recognise behaviour that commonly relates to the misuse of these substances.
- Execute effectively a drug search warrant and respond and manage a report involving a drug crime or offence.
- Apply tools such as self-reflection to evaluate professional actions and personal attitudes, and the role of integrity, equity and accountability in harm minimisation and drug enforcement.
- Apply legislation and other relevant sources of guidance relating to drug enforcement applicable to Tasmania.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 090501 | $2,174.00 | $1,020.00 | $1,192.00 | $2,562.00 |
- FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | This unit is delivered online. You will be required to undertaken Independent self directed learning. |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Test or quiz (10%)|Direct Observations of Procedural Skills (DOPS) (20%)|Field Notes/Report (20%)|Examination - invigilated (internally) (50%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.