TROOPS RAIDED IN ARMY DRUGS CRACKDOWN

Queensland police and their military counterparts today raided barracks in
Townsville as part of the army's continuing crackdown on illegal drug use
among soldiers.

Brigadier David Morrison, Commander 3 Brigade, said the raids at Lavarack
Barracks targeted 19 soldiers from a number of the brigade's units after
information was received alleging illegal drug use.

He said the raids by 25 officers from the Military Police and Queensland
Police should not reflect on the outstanding work done by the majority of
soldiers within those units or the entire brigade.

"The Army takes the misuse of drugs seriously because it affects the safety
and wellbeing of our members," he said. Brigadier Morrison said the misuse
of drugs and alcohol led to lower performance, health impairment and
security risks and could put soldiers in unnecessary danger.

"The continuous reinforcement of our zero tolerance approach is critical in
ensuring an efficient and effective Army for the nation." Brigadier
Morrison said the Army had comprehensive drug awareness campaigns, so
soldiers were aware of the risks and consequences associated with the
misuse of illegal drugs.

Soldiers who used illegal drugs risked paying a high personal and
professional price and could be dismissed from the Army, he said.