Three strikes: NSW falls behind rest of nation as Queensland reforms drug possession laws

Queensland health minister says progressive changes will open up pathways for people to receive treatment for drug use

• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

New South Wales will become the only state that doesn’t allow cautions for people possessing drugs after Queensland moved to mandate a three-strike system.

Doctors, police and drug reform advocates are welcoming reforms, passed on Thursday night, that will see Queensland take a more progressive approach to policing the personal consumption of illegal drugs.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup