Trends in drug use and driving among nightclub attendees

NDARC Staff

Louisa Degenhardt, Paul Dillon and Joanne Ross

Rationale

This study was conducted in anticipation of the introduction of roadside saliva testing in New South Wales.

Aims

The aim of the study was to:

1. Document the demographics and drug use history of nightclub attendees prior to the introduction of roadside drug testing in Sydney;
2. Document the ways in which nightclub attendees reported travelling to and from nightclubs;
3. Examine nightclub attendees' drug driving behaviour and their risk perception of the effects of different drugs upon dirving ability; and
4. Document the knowledge of roadside drug testing prior to its introduction by the NSW Government.

   Design and Method

   
   

The study utilised a brief questionnaire, designed to be easily administered within the club setting. To enhance valid reports of drug use, and driving under the influence, participants were permitted to self-complete the drug use and driving sections. The questionnaire was administered in two inner-city Sydney venues. Attempts were made to recruit a number of different venues from different areas of Sydney; however, many venues were reluctant to become involved. Two inner-city dance venues agreed to participate and recruitment at these venues took place over two weekends in November 2006.

Progress

Project completed and findings published in 2007

Output

Ross, J., Campbell, G., Degenhardt, L. & Dillon, P. (2007) Driving and clubbing in Sydney: A study of drug use and risk among nightclub attendees. NDARC Technical Report No. 289. Sydney: UNSW.

Funding

NSW Police via NSW Road and Traffic Authority