Exclusive: Veteran advocate says drug reform is much needed – but governments fear being ‘crucified’ by media and political opponents
As he prepares to leave after 16 years at the helm of the Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association , Biondo has revealed his immense frustration at having watched thousands of people die unnecessarily because governments fear “being crucified” by the media and opposition.
Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup “People in charge seem to avoid pursuing pragmatic policies that can make a difference because they’re scared of what the political backlash might be. Since then, Biondo’s seen the state undergo fundamental changes to the alcohol and drug sector, a royal commission into the mental health system, the legalisation of medicinal cannabis and the opening of Victoria’s first safe injecting room, in North Richmond.
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