ARMY SPOT DRUG TESTS

ARMY chiefs are bracing for a big rise in the number of soldiers caught
using drugs under a tough new random testing program.

About one in 10 soldiers will be tested. Army sources say they expect a big
spike in positive results when the tests are introduced into barracks over
the next few weeks.

In recent months, about 65 soldiers have tested positive for drugs in the
Army at bases in Darwin, Townsville and Woodside in South Australia.

Some bases are already collecting intelligence to help target testing.
Military Police will maintain a counter-drug operation in most Army areas.

Sources say surprise will play an important role in the success of random
testing because some drugs are not traceable a couple of days after they
have been taken.

The crackdown comes because of concerns drug use is a security risk.

Under the random testing program, discharge for using illicit drugs will
become an administrative process, with a 28-day period for those testing
positive to show cause why they should not be discharged.

Drugs found to be used by sacked soldiers include cannabis,
benzodiazepines, amphetamines, opiates and ecstasy.

Out of 47 soldiers, who tested positive in Darwin, four have been allowed
to stay in the force, 24 discharged and a decision is still pending on 19
soldiers.

Out of 39 soldiers tested in Townsville late last year, 15 returned a
positive result. Several of these soldiers are expected to be discharged
from the service in coming weeks. In February, another three soldiers from
an undisclosed base tested positive.

Chief of Army Lt-General Peter Leahy told a Senate inquiry earlier this
month training of testing staff would be completed by the end of March.